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How many fish can i add when the tank is just done cycling, and all the parameters are fine? Is it possible to add 6 smaller fish at a time? Im planning to start a 55 gallon in september, and would like some help. Just for confirmation, how long should i wait for it to cycle? Im going to be using a Rena Xp3 system, and need some advice on what to use inside it. Also, how much are plants useful in the cycling process? What would be the most fish i can add after i add the schooling fish?

Heres my other thread on my stocking preferences. Zaboomafoo! (I like that word)

Thanks a-million for putting up with my worries!

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Cycling under average conditions takes about 21 days, call it 28 to be completely safe, (bit different from petshop advice eh? thats cos im not trying to sell you anything!) and if its tiny fish like tetras, about 6-8 a week would probably be fine, especially if its a planted tank. Its all estimation, but yours is a 55 if i remember correctly, so that will be fine.A week is plenty for the bacterial culture to catch up with the demands of 6 fish or so. With bigger fish like midsized rainbows or a smallish plec, one or two just about does it. Obviously in a smaller tank with a smaller filter like a 20 gal or lessit would only take a 3-4 fish stocking at a time, and if you have 120's like mine with big filters and loads of bacteria space and plants ,you can put in around ten or so.