What fish should I add to the tank?

Question

Here are the stats:
(a) Well-established 29g planted freshwater aquarium. Over 2-years running, frequent water changes, adequate filtration, the works. The plants are unkempt and I'm not terribly concerned about 'em. I haven't tested pH in awhile, but I imagine that the aquarium water isn't terribly hard or alkaline -- it's a mellow tank w/ driftwood, flourite, and lotsa plants.
(b) Current fish: a 6" pleco, a beautiful 8" angel, and 3 fat and healthy clown loaches.

In a nutshell, the tank is healthy but boring. I'd like to add more "energy" to the tank -- I was thinking about adding several more clown loaches, 'cause large schools of loaches are cool, but thought that different active midwater fish might look better. I'm not sure how the angel would treat smaller fish ... probably like popcorn.

Feedback?

Answer 1

Heavens, don't get a pirahna as some have suggested. Worst idea ever.

You should test your pH and other aquarium parameters - you never know, it is possible that the water is coming out of your tap at a high or low pH. It's good to know.

Anyway, as someone else mentioned, your tank is pretty well stocked. A 30 gallon is basically only big enough for ONE angel and assorted smaller fish. But, you have a large pleco, and plecos produce a lot of waste. Clown loaches are actually not appropriate fish for a tank that size. They can grow to be 8-12", so definitely don't get any more.

If you want, look into upgrading your tank to something bigger. But as it stands, you haven't got room for anything else. The only fish you could possibly get away with would promptly be eaten by your angelfish.

Answer 2

1. You can keep 1-2 in of fish per gallon, and as for adding to an existing tank, as many as will fit at a time -- letting them get fully acquainted with temp. before dumping them into the tank. 2. I usually wait a week or so to add new fish so that I know the ones I just put in are doing well and have not developed Ick. Never add new fish to a tank where another fish has recently had Ick without sterilizing the WHOLE tank, and quarantining the fish. 3. It is not about the size but rather the sensitivity of the fish. You should let more sensitive fish acclamate before adding new ones or do your best to set up the tank to the way a sensitive fish will like it best before adding one into an existing community. Sensitive fish are tetras and fish without scales, among others. From experience tetras especially.

Answer 3

I would have to say your tank is pretty well stocked. Unless you are willing to get rid of some fish I would not add any more fish. Maybe you should check the water parameters, if you fish are not very active sometimes changing the pH and hardness can make a big difference. Or drop some vegetables like cucumbers in your clown loaches and pleco will love them

Answer 4

Yeah, smaller fish would probably turn into an appetizer. With another angelfish, either one could end up w/ torn fins,not attractive. I would just stick to the loaches like you said. Sounds like a great tank, hope this helps!!

PS, do you have any snails, i know when i got a live plant (also unkept) I had a total snail invasion.

Answer 5

Betas are great little fishes, but if you are unlucky, they'll start fighting with the other fishes in the tank. Put some catfish in it to keep the tank clean. I haven't tried the clams and snails yet.

Answer 6

I have quite a few mollies in my tank. You can get some that are very colorful and are compatible with the other fish. Petras are also compatible. Then again you can always add the every popular guppies.

Answer 7

who about some warrior angel fish

Answer 8

a larger schooling fish, even larger neons. i've had luck with my angels. giant danos.

Answer 9

lion fish

Answer 10

Pirahnas... those always bring some excitement.