first heated tank... advice?

[eja206]

hi,
I have kept unheated tanks for a few years now, but I am thinking of getting my first heated tank soon, probably 30 litres or 45 litres (biorb or biolife tank). What fish should i look at keeping? as the tank i am thinking of getting is relatively small i want things that live well together or i can have quite a few of with no problems.
thanks, ellie xx

 

[missileman]

Something small obviously, maybe a small school of tetras (neons or cardinals) or a few guppies?
Maybe an otto cat for the bottom?

 

[eja206]

yes I have been thinking about guppies, they seem so gorgeous and different to anything i have had before. how many would you suggest for a 30 litre tank? or 45?
i also like the look of black skirt tetras, do you have any advice on them?
can those 2 species live together?
thanks xx

 

[missileman]

You are talking about roughly 10 gallons.
A general rule often used is about 1" of fish (adult size) per gallon.
You can stretch it some but if you go a lot more you will have problems with water quality.
Guppies= about 1-1/2"
Black Skirt Tetra= about 1-1/2" to 2"
They can live together but tetras like to school and should be kept in groups of 4 or more.
Off hand I am thinking with the 45 litre perhaps 3 fancy guppies (1 male and 2 females) and a school of 4 Tetras. With good filtration you may even be able to squeeze an otto cat in there for the bottom.

 

[eja206]

cool. yes i have had a quick look at the otto cat fish - they look really good and i would definitely think about getting one!