20 gallon numbers for tetra or danio and guarami and Cory’s?

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LanaCarrie

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Jul 8, 2018
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I’m getting a 20 gallon aquarium (12.5 deepx 24 wide x 16.5 high with heater and s20 marina clip on filter). I’ve researched as much as I can and think I’d like to have the following:

schoolers: Cardinal or some other tetras or cherry barbs or celestial pearl danios

centerpiece: honey guaramI(s)

bottom: panda or salt and pepper cory

i don’t want to overload my tank and I’m new to the hobby. I like the idea of real plants but have been told to start with fake so I plan to.

Questions:
How many schoolers should I get? Could I have two sets? Are there any of the above that are hardier than others? Any recommendations for an alternative (would like colourful)

do I get 1 honey or a pair? Is there an alternate I should consider (dwarf guarami seem to be susceptible to sickness and betas seem like too much of a fun nipping risk)

is 4 Cory’s not enough (some places say yes, others say at least 6)

do I get an algae eater like Otocinclus too? How many?

Are shrimp or snails an option or does this become too much for a 20 gallon?

thanks for any advice you have to offer
 

ustabefast

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Jan 17, 2017
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Santa Barbara area.
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Gregg
CPD's are very small and shy, probably more appropriate for a nano tank.
Cardinal Tetras are a great choice and are hardy once established.
Cherry Barbs are very hardy and more active if you want more movement than the more sedate Cardinals.
I love Panda Cories. I'd go with 5 or 6, as they are schoolers and are more interesting and happy in larger numbers.
I also love honey Gouramis. Are you talking about the gold ones commonly found in fish stores? I find them to be easier to keep in groups than the wild types, where one breeding male can wreck havoc.
2 or more would be good, or you can get just one for that matter.
I'd wait before adding Oto's unless you willing to give them a specialized diet. They do better in a well established tank.
 

LanaCarrie

Registered Member
Jul 8, 2018
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Thanks much for then info the info! I will get all the fish at a reputable pet store so it sounds like the honey guarami will work. Thanks again!
 

ustabefast

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Jan 17, 2017
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Santa Barbara area.
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Skirts get pretty big and are somewhat aggressive, but yeah, they would work with a few Cories. Keep in mind that later adding shrimp or smaller fish may not work out well with these.
 

LanaCarrie

Registered Member
Jul 8, 2018
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Skirts get pretty big and are somewhat aggressive, but yeah, they would work with a few Cories. Keep in mind that later adding shrimp or smaller fish may not work out well with these.
Thank you! I’ll stick to the cardinals :). Appreciate your help
 
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