Tank mates for a Spotted Pictus Catfish

Question
I recently got a 10 gallon fishtank, and am getting ready to start the setup/cycling process so i can add fish. I want to get a Spotted Pictus Catfish for my tank but i needed to know what other fish will be ok to go in the tank with it. I currently have 2 tiger barbs that are in a smaller tank and can be moved into the 10 gallon but they have been by themselves for about 4 months and i dont know how well they will enjoy a new "buddy"
If you could give me some ideas that would be very helpful.
Also I am shopping at the local petco so that may or may not limit my options for fish.
thanks much,
kelly

Answer
Hi Kelly,

Remember the 1" of fish per 1.5 gallon rule while stocking.

For a ten gallon tank, that's a grand total in inches, of 6" of fish, no more than that, with ample filtration.

with that said, your 3 fish you've chosen are plenty for this tank.  The pictus cat is going to reach a length of 6".

This is going to way outdo your specifications eventually, but for around a year, he should be comfy in a 10 gallon.

If you like other fishes instead, corydoras remain small.  You could add two of those, anything will really do well in there with the barbs, but they may become quite nippy to livebearers.

I don't recommend livebearers.:)

Happy fish-keeping.