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55-gallon livestock suggestions
Posted: Wed Jun 18, 2025 9:44 am
by lyrinx
I'm setting up a 55-gallon tank and need some livestock ideas. I've got a Fluval 307 filter, sand substrate, and a few pieces of driftwood. Not sure if I should go with a community tank or focus on a single species. What would you guys recommend?
Re: 55-gallon livestock suggestions
Posted: Wed Jun 18, 2025 10:29 am
by GuppyMax
A 55-gallon is a great size for a community tank. You could do a mix of tetras, like Cardinals or Rummynose, with some Corydoras for the bottom. Maybe throw in a centerpiece fish like a pair of German Blue Rams. Just make sure your water params are stable, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, and keep the temp around 78-80F.
Re: 55-gallon livestock suggestions
Posted: Wed Jun 18, 2025 11:06 am
by jovelin
I'd go with a single species tank, like a big school of Harlequin Rasboras. They're super chill and look awesome in a big group. Add some Cherry Shrimp and you've got a low-maintenance setup. Just watch out for any aggressive fish if you go the community route.
Re: 55-gallon livestock suggestions
Posted: Wed Jun 18, 2025 11:36 am
by Sunbird
GuppyMax wrote: ↑Wed Jun 18, 2025 10:29 am
A 55-gallon is a great size for a community tank. You could do a mix of tetras, like Cardinals or Rummynose, with some Corydoras for the bottom. Maybe throw in a centerpiece fish like a pair of German Blue Rams. Just make sure your water params are stable, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, and keep the temp around 78-80F.
I agree with GuppyMax. German Blue Rams are stunning but can be picky about water quality. If you're new to the hobby, maybe start with something hardier like Bolivian Rams.
Re: 55-gallon livestock suggestions
Posted: Wed Jun 18, 2025 11:43 am
by tobias
Yo, if you wanna keep it simple, just get a bunch of Guppies. They're colorful, easy to care for, and breed like crazy. Throw in some Nerite Snails to keep the algae in check. No need to overcomplicate things.
Re: 55-gallon livestock suggestions
Posted: Wed Jun 18, 2025 12:35 pm
by sweetbread
I've had success with a planted tank and a school of Celestial Pearl Danios. They're small but full of personality. Add some Otocinclus for algae control and you've got a balanced ecosystem. Just make sure your plants are well-established before adding the fish.
Re: 55-gallon livestock suggestions
Posted: Wed Jun 18, 2025 1:29 pm
by lyrinx
Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. I'm leaning towards a community tank with tetras and Corydoras. I'll do some more research on the Rams.
Re: 55-gallon livestock suggestions
Posted: Wed Jun 18, 2025 1:40 pm
by GuppyMax
lyrinx wrote: ↑Wed Jun 18, 2025 1:29 pm
Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. I'm leaning towards a community tank with tetras and Corydoras. I'll do some more research on the Rams.
Good call. Just remember to quarantine any new fish before adding them to your main tank. It's a hassle but worth it to avoid introducing diseases.
Re: 55-gallon livestock suggestions
Posted: Wed Jun 18, 2025 2:22 pm
by jovelin
If you go with Corydoras, make sure you get at least six of the same species. They're social and do better in groups. Also, sand substrate is perfect for them since they like to sift through it.
Re: 55-gallon livestock suggestions
Posted: Wed Jun 18, 2025 3:08 pm
by Sunbird
Another option is a species-only tank with Apistogramma. They're colorful and have interesting behaviors. Just be aware they can be territorial, especially during breeding. A 55-gallon would give them enough space to establish territories.