Halibut

I know its the same ol' stOcking question with a different title so here we go.

I have 1 rainbow shark(black with red fins), 1 convict cichlid, and 8 tiger barbs(6 regular, 2 green) in a 55 gallon tank. I'm currently thinking of adding a yoyo loach a 9th tiger barb(green) and a red swordtail. What are some other ideas to add a bit more color to my tank. If I go with the current lineup mentioned above I'll be at ~47" adult size.

susitna-flower

Yoyo loaches need to be in groups or they are much too shy.....

Halibut

Could I get away with 2-3 or would I need more?

If I have to I could take back 1 or 2 of the reg tiger barbs in order to facilitate multiple loaches .

FL CommunityFans

3 is minimum - 5 is ideal.

With 3 you end up getting 1 guy forced out of the 'circle' and then the other 2 end up playing on their own all the time. I'm going to be getting another yoyo or two in the near future to help with my current 3.

Barbrella

Just be aware that your convict cichlid may decide he doesn't want any tankmates and start harassing or even killing the others.

Halibut

OK lets type this a 2nd time gotta love the inetrnet

I've seen my shark and convict face each other and go thier seperate ways, I have seen both of them swim in the same area as well but they are just juviniles still so problems may still arise. I do realize I may have some issue's with the way I'm stocking my tank but I am trying to stock it with fish that can handle themselves. Since the fish I like dont always play well with others finding the right balance will be fun.