Juvies or adults

[gronlaura]

For a newbie, when stocking a new tank, is it better to get adult fish rather than juveniles or visa versa? A couple of the species of fish I want have both types available (neon dwarf rainbows and BN Cat).

[bethyMT]

I am also a noob (very seriously), but I think it would probably be better to start with anything that isn't a baby. Adults may be good...they are a bit hardier. I can only advise you on the rainbows, but they are tough, even as youngsters.

I heard some place on here that you should let your tank settle down for a bit before you add bottom dwellers, as toxins settle to the substrate. There can be little spikes in ammonia and stuff in a new tank. I'd add an adult in a little while. Go with the bows first, and do water tests often.

Anyway, total noob. Disregard when smarter people come along.

[tetrageek]

I'd go with juviniles because they can adjust to new comers and would last longer. Buying large or old fish is not a good idea.