The Puffer Forum

I'm setting up a 50 gallon Figure 8 tank. Tank is 50 gallons with an overhead sump connected to a power head that runs 500gph. Pothos is planted in the sump, along with duckweed and a homemade algae scrubber. Current stocking is a betta and 3 swordtails, but I will move the betta out when my other tank has finished cycling. Here is my current stocking list:
1 Toxotes Microlepis (Small-scale Archerfish)
2 Figure 8 puffer
3 Swordtails
2-4 Orange Chromide Cichlids
2+ Emperor Gudgeons
I know the tank is overstocked but with the heavy filtration and the numerous methods of nutrient export I think I can get away with 25% weekly or 50% biweekly water changes.
I also know that Archerfish typically get too big for a 50 gallon. However, Toxotes Microlepis is a smaller species which usually only reaches 4-5 inches in captivity.
As for aggression, as far as I remember Archerfish prefer company but can live alone without too much issues, in fact they can be aggressive and territorial to each other in a tank that small.
The tank is heavily planted with 6 separate caves and plenty of hiding spaces.
Should I reduce the number of puffers, and should Chromides be kept in a school?

Swordtails don't mind some salt but are not BW fish. Chromides are schooling. Good luck finding them! Keep in mind, a 50g tank with decor & substrate, does not hold 50g of water. Overstocking isn't just about waste, it's about high being comfortable in their own environment with their own territoried.