hypothetical stocking suggestions for a column

[Kellie]

So my bf is coming down with MTS and I'm not doing anything to help cure him, lol.
We were out today and saw some amazing prices on column aquariums, one was 47 gallons, the other 56.
What would you put in this style aquarium? If i had some ideas/suggestions it may fan the fire lol.
I'd want live plants, would get tall natural decorations for the back and to anchor more plants to.
I'd love to have a red tail black shark again, i really miss the one i had years ago, i just worry the bottom footprint of the tank wouldn't be big enough. If i went that route i wouldn't get any other bottom fish. And I'd get tiger barbs then take the rest from there.
But i want to hear what your would/have done in a column style aquarium!
Thanks!

 

[ianeberle]

I personally don't like that style tank because it limits options a lot. Depending on the size of the footprint, you're limited to small fish that normally swim at the top.