Is it ok for me to put a small catfish in my new 55 gallon tank with my other fish?

[Craig A]

I have a 55 gallon tank with 18 fish in it. I have platys, goldfish, and a few bigger guppies. Since most of these fish are at the middle to top of the tank all the time, is it ok for me to put a small catfish in it since it is a bottom dweller?

[cc_woman]

I would say cory catfish would be my first choice just because they do not grow very big. First off you have to know that you should only be keeping about 2 or 3 max. goldfish in that size of tank if you have that many other fish. Do your research on some catfish that can withstand the room temperatures that your goldfish can. And always make sure to find out what kind of catfish will be compatible with your other fish. But you should be fine to add 1 catfish.

[Justinm597]

depending on the type of catfish you plan on putting in you should have no problems, small pleco's, cory's, and other small non-aggressive bottom dwellers should be fine in your tank. I have had alot of luck with my dojo loach (5"-6") he is fine with my other fish. i also keep a small pleco, cory and a silver tip shark/bala cat (i have been yelled at for using either term so take your pick)