i was curious what other fish would be compatible with these guys, or if there is some sort of online fish compatibility generator? (which would be awesome)
a sort of side question: since the addition of my sword and gourami, my snail hides in his shell a lot and only comes out at night. is that because the other fish are nipping at him during the day? or is it for some other reason?
Snails hide in their snails for three main reasons.
1. They are being picked on and are hiding from their tormentors.
2. They've eaten their fill and are focusing their energy on growing.
3. They are trying to escape poor water quality. (When this is the case the snail generally also be floating while in it's shell and stay this way for long periods of time.)
Here's a compat chart sponsered by LA. Just like anything do your research and don't rely on a single source like this, but it should give you some ideas.
Since you have a smaller tank, I think you'd be fine with a school of tetras or rasboras to finish off the tank. I'd go for 8 of whatever you choose. Try to choose something that stays smaller (like under 2 inches).