Si

Hi all,

I've been reading this forum for the past couple of days trying to gather information together in order to make the jump from coldwater fish to Fresh Tropical!

I've noted everything in the guides on the homepage re: overcrowding, cycling etc which is all very useful.

I guess it is now time to make decisions on what fish i would like to keep...

I've decided to start with easy, small fish as i'm a beginner.

I like the look on Neon Tetras and Puntious Titteya so based on the "rules" of 1 inch per gallon:

6x Neons (1.5inchs) = 9 gallons
6x Titteya (2 inches) = 12 gallons

I'm looking at maybe a 30g tank so i have a bit to of space to play with.

Does anyone see any problem with these 2 species together? and do i need to find a good center peice fish? Any suggestions or recommendations?

Many thanks in advance..

Si

Beeboy

Tetras and Cherry Barbs should have no problem together. A good centerpiece fish might be a gouramis, or betta. You should also get a catfish besides for a plecostomus (Way to big for your tank). You sound like you really know what you are doing so I can't help you much more until you see some fish you like at your lfs.

Good Luck,

Beeboy

freshwaterguy

Hi Si

Do you plan to do a fishless cycle? or with fish, if with fish you should look to purchase hardy fish that can withstand the cycling process. Your LFS should be able to advise of some good hardy fish. I have started off with a few Zebra Danios which are a hardy fish along with Barbs and Rasboras

I myself may add some neon or cardinal tetras as they add some color to the tank and are good to watch in a community set up although Buenas Aries Tetra will probably be my choice

Looks like you have done lots of reading of this site and elsewhere and that is good place to start!

Good luck

Si

Thanks for the replys!

I've looked at the center peice suggestions Beeboy and i think i'll go with a Pearl Gourami as it will only grow to 5 inchs so that will just about go for a 30g tank.

I'll probably be getting the tank etc in the next few weeks and will do a fishless cycle. Do you guys know roughly how long this will take (doesnt seem to say on any of the guides)?

Are there any recommendations for Plants etc for this setup?

Thanks

Beeboy

The fishless cycle can take anywhere from 3 weeks to 4 months but for me it was about a month. Your best bet is to just keeping testing your water. Maybe near the end you can add some of your more hardy fish.

Pearl Gouramis are very beautiful and fun fish. I love all Gouramis but Pearls really are my favorite.

As for plants I can't help you very much I only have a Moss Ball which is cool but not really a rooting plant.

I would build a cave in my tank for the Gouramis.

Good Luck!!!

Beeboy