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Looking to add some schooling fish to my 55 gallon planted tank. What are the best options that won't mess with my Corydoras and Angelfish? Need something active but not too aggressive.

Rummy Nose Tetras are solid. They school tight, stay small, and won't bother your other fish. I've got a group of 12 in my 75 gallon with similar tankmates, and they're chill. Just keep the water clean, they're kinda sensitive to nitrates.

Harlequin Rasboras are another great pick. They're hardy, peaceful, and their red coloring pops against green plants. Mine school near the middle of the tank, which adds nice movement without crowding the bottom where your Corys hang out.

I've heard good things about Cardinal Tetras. Are they harder to keep than Neons? My tank's at 78°F, pH around 6.8.

Cardinals are stunning but yeah, they need stable water. Your params sound good though. They'd do well with your Angelfish too, since they're from similar habitats. Just acclimate them slow, they're sensitive to quick changes.

Kolada wrote: ↑Sun Apr 20, 2025 7:59 am I've heard good things about Cardinal Tetras. Are they harder to keep than Neons? My tank's at 78°F, pH around 6.8.

Cardinals are tougher than Neons long-term. Neons are often bred in harder water, so they don't always thrive in soft setups like yours. Cardinals will outlive them if you keep the water pristine.

Thanks for the suggestions. Leaning toward Rummies or Harlequins since they're supposed to be hardier. How many should I start with?

Sire wrote: ↑Sun Apr 20, 2025 10:09 am Thanks for the suggestions. Leaning toward Rummies or Harlequins since they're supposed to be hardier. How many should I start with?

Go for at least 8-10. Schooling fish feel safer in bigger groups, and they'll show better colors and behavior. Your tank's big enough to handle 12-15 eventually if you like how they look.

Agree with haywire on group size. Also, add them all at once if you can. Introducing a few at a time can stress the new ones and the existing school. I made that mistake once, and it took weeks for them to settle.

One more vote for Harlequins here. They're underrated. Super peaceful, easy to feed, and they don't hide like some Tetras do. Mine even swim up to greet me during water changes, which is kinda cute.