Starting up a new tank

Question
QUESTION: Hi Karen,
I'm buying a 30*18*18 aquarium and this is my stocking scheme
Red phantom tetra x7
Black phantom tetra x7
Blue emperor tetra x7
corydoras x4

Do you think this tank will be over crowded?
Also, which species (from my scheme) do you think should be used to cycle the tank?
Thank you
Tae


ANSWER: Hi Tae,
I don't think you are overstocked at all and I'm impressed at your selection of species, their colors, patterns and shapes will contrast and compliment each-other nicely.

As far as for good cycling fish, I think your red or black phantoms would work well. Cycle the tank first with them and try to test your water everyday just as a precaution, and doing large (50%) water changes whenever the fish seem stressed or the ammonia starts to rise too much.

Best of luck!!!!
Karen~

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: thanks Karen, your reply was very encouraging!
I just want to ask you whether it'll be ok if i increase the quantity of each species to 8 or 9?

Answer
It might not be good to push the fish numbers too far depending upon how well you monitor your ammonia and nitrite levels during cycling. However, if you test everyday and keep a close eye on them, 8-9 would probably do quite well. It never hurts to have a bottle of ammonia neutralizers like ammo-lock or perhaps prime or amquel+ for emergencies.

Otherwise 8-9 is perfectly ok in your aquarium.

Best of luck and I hope this helps!
Karen~