What fish to put in freshwater 40 gallon hexagon tank (aquarium)?

[Keri S]

I am fairly new to the aquarium thing but I have really enjoyed the small 10 gallon tank I had set up in my classroom. I took a gamble and found a great deal on a 40 gallon hexagon tank. It's all set up and the water is stable and testing normal for everything. I'm ready for fish but I want to make sure i do it right. In my classroom I had a Dalmatian Molly that had about 25 babies, I didn't do my research. I'd like to have a variety of bottom, middle and top swimmers since it's a taller tank and I'd like a variety of color, size and interesting fish that will live peacefully. I'd like to stay away from live bearers since I don't have the capacity to breed nor do i want a full tank of the same fish. Any suggestions or "fish lists" would be greatly appreciated! I've been researching and can find info on specific fish but I really want a list of fish that fit my needs and will live well together. Thanks!!
This hexagon is not very narrow, it's actually quite stocky, 24" wide and 26" tall.

 

[I win]

1 clown pleco (4" max)
2 corydoras catfish (3.5" max)
2 honey gourami (2" max)
4 red-tailed rasbora (2.75" max)
6 cherry barb (2" max)

I don't believe the below answer is accurate. Your filter is primarily responsible for introducing oxygen to the tank. Fish can live in a bubble if the filter introduces oxygen. Fish can die in a rectangular tank if there is no water flow. Regular tanks are better for viewing in my opinion, but you don't have to return it if you don't want to. Just buy a filter that is rated for a 40 gallon tank.