Top Schooling Fish For A 55-Gallon Tank

Choosing the right schooling fish for your 55-gallon tank can be daunting, especially if you are new to the hobby.

A schooling fish prefers to swim in groups, and keeping them in your tank can add a lot of movement and life to your underwater world.

However, selecting the right ones for your tank can make all the difference.

This article will discuss the top 11 best schooling fish for a 55-gallon tank, here’s a quick list;

  1. Neon Tetras
  2. Harlequin Rasboras
  3. Zebra Danios
  4. Cherry Barbs
  5. Cardinal Tetras
  6. Rummy Nose Tetras
  7. Pearl Danios
  8. Black Skirt Tetras
  9. Corydoras Catfish
  10. Swordtails
  11. Platies

Neon Tetras

Neon Tetra
Neon Tetra

Neon Tetras is one of the most popular schooling fish for a 55-gallon tank.

Many aquarium enthusiasts love these fish because of their ease of care, vibrant colors, and long lifespan of up to five years.

They are also peaceful and can be kept in groups of six or more.

Harlequin Rasboras

Rasboras is a good tank mate for black neon tetra
Harlequin Rasboras

Another excellent option for a 55-gallon tank is Harlequin Rasboras. These fish are small, peaceful, and can be kept in groups of six or more.

They prefer to swim in the middle and top levels of the tank.

Zebra Danios

zebra danio
Zebra Danios

Zebra Danios are active and colorful and can add much life to your aquarium. These fish are easy to care for and can be kept in groups of six or more.

They prefer to swim in the middle and top levels of the tank.

Cherry Barbs

Cherry Barbs are peaceful, colorful, and easy to care for.

They can be kept in groups of six or more and prefer to swim in the middle and bottom levels of the tank.

Cardinal Tetras

Cardinal Tetras (Paracheirodon Axelrodi)
Cardinal Tetra

Cardinal Tetras are known for their vibrant colors and ease of care.

These peaceful fish can be kept in groups of six or more and prefer to swim in the middle and top levels of the tank.

Rummy Nose Tetras

Rummy-Nose Tetras (Hemigrammus Rhodostomus)
Rummy Nose Tetra

Rummy Nose Tetras is another peaceful and colorful fish that can add a lot of life to your tank.

These fish are easy to care for and can be kept in groups of six or more. They prefer to swim in the middle and bottom levels of the tank.

Pearl Danios

Pearl Danios are active, colorful, and easy to care for.

They can be kept in groups of six or more and prefer to swim in the middle and top levels of the tank.

Black Skirt Tetras

Black Skirt (Black Widow) Tetra
Black Skirt Tetra

Black Skirt Tetras are peaceful and colorful and can add a lot of life to your aquarium.

They can be kept in groups of six or more and prefer to swim in the middle and bottom levels of the tank.

Corydoras Catfish

Corydoras Catfish are peaceful, easy-to-care-for fish that can add a lot of personality to your tank.

They prefer to swim in groups and can be kept in groups of six or more. These catfish are great for cleaning up leftover food and like swimming in the tank’s bottom levels.

Swordtails

Swordtails are colorful, active, and easy to care for. They can be kept in groups of six or more and prefer to swim in the middle and top levels of the tank.

These fish are known for their unique sword-like tails.

Platies

Platy 15 gallon community tank
Platies

Platies are peaceful, colorful, and easy to care for. They can be kept in groups of six or more and prefer to swim in the middle and top levels of the tank.

When choosing the best schooling fish for your 55-gallon tank, there are essential factors to consider, such as water temperature, pH level, and compatibility with other fish in your tank.

It is also crucial to avoid overstocking your tank, as this can lead to health problems for your fish.

Furthermore, you must equip your tank with the right equipment, such as a high-quality filter and appropriate substrate like Fluval Stratum substrate.

Also, provide any necessary heaters or lighting to maintain a healthy environment for your fish.

In summary, selecting the right schooling fish for your 55-gallon tank can make all the difference in creating a beautiful and healthy underwater world in your home.

Whether you choose Neon Tetras, Harlequin Rasboras, or any other fish on this list, consider factors such as compatibility and equipment needs. 

If you have any further questions or concerns about fish care, Tropical Fish Care Guides is here to help. 

We offer resources on various topics, including the lifespan of Neon Tetras, the number of guppies suitable for a 10-gallon tank, and the dietary needs of Betta fish.

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