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Looking for recommendations on peaceful shoaling fish for a 30-gallon community tank. I've got a mix of tetras and corydoras but want something that schools tightly and won't bother others. Water params are stable, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate, pH 7.2. Tank is heavily planted with driftwood and sand substrate.

Harlequin Rasboras are a solid choice. They school tightly, stay small, and are super peaceful. I've kept them with neon tetras and cherry shrimp without issues. They do best in groups of 8 or more. Make sure your tank has some open swimming space though, they like to zoom around.

Yo, I'd second the Harlequins. They're chill and look dope in a big group. Also, check out Celestial Pearl Danios if you want something smaller. They're tiny but pack a punch color-wise. Just keep 'em in a group of 10+ and they'll vibe with your setup.

If you're after something a bit different, consider Rummy Nose Tetras. They're one of the tightest schooling fish I've seen, and their red noses add a pop of color. They're sensitive to water changes though, so keep your params steady. A group of 12 would be ideal in your tank size.

guppyMaster wrote: ↑Wed Jul 30, 2025 12:23 pm Harlequin Rasboras are a solid choice. They school tightly, stay small, and are super peaceful. I've kept them with neon tetras and cherry shrimp without issues. They do best in groups of 8 or more. Make sure your tank has some open swimming space though, they like to zoom around.

I agree, but don't forget about Ember Tetras. They're like tiny flames darting around the tank. Super peaceful and they'll school tightly if you keep them in a big enough group. Plus, they're hardy as heck.

I've had good luck with White Cloud Mountain Minnows. They're super hardy and school nicely. They're also cool with lower temps if your room gets chilly. Just don't mix them with aggressive fish, they're pretty timid.

For a 30-gallon, you could also look at Pentazona Barbs. They're peaceful, active, and school tightly. They're a bit bigger than some of the other suggestions, so keep that in mind. They're also less common, which is a plus if you want something unique.

Thanks for all the suggestions! I'm leaning toward Harlequins or Rummy Nose Tetras. Anyone have experience with both and can compare their behavior?

Duskwalker wrote: ↑Wed Jul 30, 2025 1:20 pm If you're after something a bit different, consider Rummy Nose Tetras. They're one of the tightest schooling fish I've seen, and their red noses add a pop of color. They're sensitive to water changes though, so keep your params steady. A group of 12 would be ideal in your tank size.

Rummies are awesome, but Harlequins are way easier to keep. Rummies can be fussy with water changes, like Duskwalker said. Harlequins are more forgiving if you're still dialing in your maintenance routine.

I'd throw in a vote for Chili Rasboras. They're tiny, but man, they school like crazy and their red color pops against plants. Just make sure your tank is well-cycled, they're a bit sensitive at first.