Re: Stocking List Review - New 55g Saltwater -06/13/08
Hi Everyone!
<<Hello Tamara!>>
I hope it's OK to bother you.
<<Certainly>>
I want to make sure we get this stocking thing right and don't hurt and/or kill any fish.
<<Me too!>>
My son's tank is all set up after my setback of dropping his Ecosystem 60 refugium, which you so kindly told me how to repair.
<<I’m glad someone here was able to help>>
You saved me tons of money replacing it for which I am extremely grateful.
<<Quite welcome, I’m sure>>
Finding this site has been more helpful than I think you will ever know!
<<We do have an idea… [grin]>>
You guys and gals are the best!
<<Thank you>>
The tank is now fully cycled with nitrate, nitrite, and ammonia all at 0 so we are ready to start slowly adding fish.
<<I see>>
I've been researching on your site constantly (and doing very little work, just don't tell my boss)
<<Hee-hee! Though I don’t smoke, I do take the occasional “smoke break” at work to answer queries when possible…shhhhh>>
and am trying to come up with a good list of inhabitants for the tank. The tank belongs to my soon to be 12 year old son so I'm trying to come up with the best mix of the fish he loves without having any compatibility issues.
<<Wise>>
First off let me give you the info on his set-up. He bought it used but I think it's a relatively good setup from what I'm reading. It's a 55 gallon tank, Ecosystem 60 refugium with Miracle Mud and Caulerpa, Coralife UV filter run off of a Mag Drive pump (I know this probably isn't necessary but it came with the setup), Prizm protein skimmer (plan to upgrade this in the future),
<<Good>>
Current Nova T-5 lighting with 2 - 54 watt 10K bulbs and 2 - 54 watt actinic bulbs, 2 power sweeps (so far they are sweeping just fine but I know this is a known issue), and we just added another powerhead (Hydor Koralia) after reading on your site and realizing he didn't have enough water movement, so he now has a total of 1520 gph through the powerheads alone.
<<Adequate water movement is key…and so often overlooked>>
The tank has a 1" live sand bed and about 90 lbs of live rock which came straight out of someone's tank that was moving.
<<Mmm…replacing a small portion with some “new” rock would be a big benefit re introduction of more/new biodiversity and bio-minerals/buffering capacity>>
We arranged it with lots of hiding places, shelves and holes so hopefully the fish will enjoy it.
<<They need to feel safe, true…but also be sure to leave plenty of swimming room (you “can” add too much rock if not careful)>>
The rock has tons of life on it. So far we've seen about a dozen hermits (blue and red leg) and 5 snails (Astrea I believe), tons of pods scurrying everywhere on the rock and sand, an emerald green crab (about an inch wide),
<<Can spell trouble…research our site re>>
and some Bristle Worms.
<<Excellent detritivores>>
The tank went through a short diatom bloom, then some green hairy algae and now it's nicely starting to add to the already existing coralline algae.
<<Ah…the “natural” alga succession>>
Ty and I will just sit there both day and night searching the tank for little critters that might be showing up. It's really exciting.
<<Tis a fascinating hobby, eh?>>
Just imagine how much fun we'll have when there are actually FISH in there.
<<Indeed>>
Which brings me to my question? I know, you are probably thinking "FINALLY!!!”
<<LOL>>
Here is a list of what my son wants in his tank that I think might actually work (with the help of your site, I've already nixed his tang ideas, triggers, lion fish, and puffer fish, and we returned a sand sifting star that our LFS told him he needed after reading it would starve).
<<Ahh…so you “are” learning [grin]>>
So here is what is left:
2 Blue Green Chromis (does this need to change to 3? I read something here about only having odd numbers of them)
<<Considering the size of the tank…two is fine in my opinion>>
2 Percula Clowns (tank raised, love the different patterns)
1 or 2 Firefish (he'd like both a purple and a red, is that OK? He has a high lid so jumping shouldn't be a problem)
<<These are not a good mix with the Damsels (Chromis and Clownfish) as they are too easily intimidated to the point of death…either from starvation or stress. They best kept is a more peaceful environment…or if not, at least in a lager tank than here>>
1 Yellow Head Jawfish (This one is his absolute favorite but I know there is an issue with the 1" sand bed.
<<Indeed…and a species better relegated to a species-specific tank…or again, one much larger>>
Would it work to do a deep bed in one corner for him or should I just talk him out of this one)
<<Better to just “pass” I think>>
1 Cleaner Wrasse
<<Mmm, no…dismal survival rate. But…one of the Neon Cleaner “Gobies” (Elacatinus sp.) would be a fine addition>>
1 Flame Angel
<<A hardy aquarium species…but should really be given larger quarters>>
That would be his shortlist of "must haves" (provided they work of course).
<<The size of the tank is a limiting factor…even with some seemingly “small” fishes>>
On top of that he likes several Gobies (Neon Blue, Neon Gold, Watchman, and Engineer), and the Six Line Wrasse...so those could be used either to replace his shortlist items if they don't work or to add to it if he's not already maxed out.
<<The Neon Gobies as mentioned would be fine…the others might be too disruptive in this tank…at least they are for my tastes (sand EVERYWHERE)…but the decision is yours. As for the Sixline…this fish “will” become a terror in this size tank. A better choice would be on of the smaller Halichoeres species…a fave of mine for hardiness/aquarium suitability is H. chrysus>>
He would like to have an anemone for the clowns.
<<Mmm…>>
Is the bubble tip a good idea?
<<One of the better, yes…and as long as you’re not mixing in sessile inverts>>
And what corals would you recommend for his lighting level, water movement and to be OK with the anemone.
<<Honestly? None… This tank is too small for such. Best to decide on one option or the other…>>
Lastly (I promise) stocking order. Does the order above work? I'm pretty sure the angel has to be last but wasn't sure about everyone else.
<<If you stick with your original plan then yes, the angel and the Sixline would go in at the end of the order>>
And where do the corals and anemone fall into play, when do they get added?
<<Ideally…let the tank mature a few more months before adding either (the clowns will be fine)>>
Thanks so much!
Tamara
<<Happy to assist. Eric Russell>>
Oh and for my son's birthday (next Saturday) I ordered him "Clownfishes" and "The Conscientious Marine Aquarist" (he loves to read and has been dying to get them).
<<That’s great Tamara! Do also get him reading/researching the site. EricR>>

Problems with buying Local Stock 6/9/08
Dear WWMCrew,
How is everyone?
<Hello, doing well in my neck of the woods.>
First of all, Thank you for all your help previously, your site has been a great resource that I've recommended to many others.
<Great! Thank you.>
This is just a short email asking your opinion on a problem I have.
Recently I have moved to a new town and I am living in a small apartment. I've been very busy as of late but I miss having my saltwater aquariums, so I wanted to invest in a small self-contained saltwater aquarium, such as a BioCube or NanoCube. Of course I've always preferred stocking my aquariums rather low, and since I didn't think I've have a lot of time to maintain delicate fish (I'd still have time for proper feeding and maintenance) I wanted to get a 24 gallon aquarium and place maybe a pair of false Perculas (Nothing else fish wise).
<Sounds good.>
Anyway, I can order everything online but the fish really. The problem is I don't usually get home during the week until 7pm, and my door is facing west, so the afternoon sun really heats it up. I guess what I'm trying to say if I wasn't there to receive online ordered fish, I am quite certain they would boil. I once had a package of textbooks sit there less than an hour and the box burned my hand to the touch.
<If you do order online you can specify the package be held at the carrier hub in your area for pickup or sometimes delivered to your apartment’s office (if they will allow this).>
So, I visited the only LFS, and unfortunately I wasn't very impressed. Most of his live rock was covered in Aiptasia, and had very little present coralline (I mean less than 10%).
All of his saltwater fish stock was given inadequate holding positions as well, I'd say less than 1 gallon of water for single fish and a couple of 20 gallon setups holding say Lions mixed with Triggers and other very aggressive species. The selection wasn't very good and many of the fish were very juvenile (Damsels under an inch exc...). Not only that, he informed me that all the water in the system was kept with a constant level of Cupramine, which alarmed me because the system included juvenile angels and tangs. Not to mention keeping CBS's with Peppermints and...just a lot of incompatible things together overall.
<All of the above is unfortunately a common story.>
My first instinct was not to purchase fish from this location. But now I'm thinking, what other option do I have?
<Mail order as you mentioned, although an expensive proposition with shipping for two clowns.>
Is my level of caution unwarranted?
<No.>
Please tell me if you think it would be safe to buy stock from this location, because I can get live rock and aquarium supplies over the internet with no trouble.
Thank you yet again.
CD
<It is a call you will have to make based on individual fish. A great store can have unhealthy individuals while a not so great store may have some fish in great shape. The thing going for you is the fish you are after, the False Perculas are some of the toughest, resilient fish out there! Some observations of the actual fish you wish to purchase and some guidelines on selection here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/clnfishart2.htm
Welcome, Scott V.>

Re: Problems with buying Local Stock    6/10/08
Thanks Scott, I really appreciate your opinion on the matter.
<My pleasure.>
It's true, I had considered that the Percs would fare the Cupramine rather well and I might actually be rescuing some of them from being a snack for a more predatory creature.
<Possibly.>
If I do decide to buy from this location, I'll make sure and quarantine for a while to allow them to rest before throwing them into the new tank.
Anyway, Have a great day.
CD
<Thanks, you too! Scott V.>

Re: Stocking order and capacity 06/05/2008
Dear Crew,
<<Rich>>
Thanks for the useful information and quick response.
<<No problem>>
I'll give a quick update then a few more questions. I should have mentioned that I did have a brief, minute elevation of ammonia that quickly resolved during cycling. I probably didn't check often enough to catch the trend. The point seems mute now as I've had 2 healthy Perculas for about 10 weeks with no problems. No ammonia spikes, health problems (that I'm aware of), feeding problems, or behavioral problems.
<<Sounds good>>
I have noticed some small bristle worms (pink/purple alternating bands) and 4 Aiptasia, but I'm not certain their having much of a detrimental effect. I may inject the Aiptasia with some hot Kalkwasser at some point.
<<Would certainly remove aiptasia via your chosen method, bristle worms are a good addition to the tank and help to keep it clean>>
Anyway, I went with the stocking plan that included two clowns and left out the tang.
For the clowns, I quarantined for 2 weeks after a dip in freshwater/Methylene blue. I gave serious consideration to having two Firefish but after reading the considerable debate over this, have opted for one. Now the questions:
1. Is it ok to dip Firefish in Methylene blue? I understand quarantine is limited to 5-7 days with them.
<<Dips are fine with these, however, i have always quarantined for 3 weeks minimum in a dark and covered tank>>
2. Does it matter when (in terms of stocking order) I introduce the shrimp?
<<No, can be introduced at anytime>>
3. Does it matter if I introduce shrimp one at a time or two or three at once? I understand it is not prudent to dip these crustaceans.
<<Not prudent, no. Feel free to introduce all together if you so wish as they do not really represent a bioload>>
Thanks in advance,
Rich
<<Do please read more info on the Firefish here http://www.wetwebmedia.com/ca/cav1i1/wormfishesArt/wormfishes.htm >>
<<Thanks for the follow up Rich, i hope this helps. A Nixon>>

Compatibility -SW/stocking 5/25/08
Big Aquarium With Big Plans! (Stocking Critique)
Ok, I think you guys are the most experienced people I can find, so please read my stocking list, and tell me what I should add or delete. OK!
1 Blueface Angel 5-6 in (sorry but I'm disobeying, but I just love this species to much)
<I understand your love for the fish, and I know that you are building a very large aquarium. I still can't say I'm a fan of keeping it in captivity, though!>
3 Golden Pygmy Angels
<Nice fish...tend to hide a lot, but may become emboldened over time. Keeping them in a trio, added at the same time, is a good idea if you want to keep more than one specimen.>
2 Threadfin Butterflies 2-3 in
<Definitely add them at the same time to avoid potential aggression issues. They do get pretty large (like almost 1)"),and aggressive (for a Butterfly, at least) so keep this in mind.>
3 Black and White Heniochus 2-3 in
<Can be nice fish for a large system.>
2 Falcula Butterflies 2-3 in
<Personally, I have found them to do better than the Threadfin Butterfly. I'd choose this species over the Threadfin; perhaps a trio of these instead.>
2 Pakistani Butterflies 2-2 in
<In my experience, these fishes can be really poor adaptors to captive life. I'd pass on them, myself-particularly in a system with a number of other Butterfly species. They tend to be timid.>
1 Magnificent Foxface 3-4 in
<Will add a lot of personality to your aquarium. Add when small for optimum adaption capacity.>
4 Regal Tang 2-3 in
<Everyone hates me for this, but I really don't think that you should keep more than one of them. They become quite large, need lots of space, and keeping a group of these active, gluttonous feeders will tax your filtration system. In the wild, they get huge, and I tend to think of them like large Angelfishes- better of in the wild.>
1 Desjardin Sailfin tang 3-4 in
<Wow- you MUST hate me by now. I love this fish, but it simply gets enormous, and, once again, like the large Angels, requires a lot of room to roam. I am not a fan of keeping this one in captivity.>
1 Powder Blue Tang 3-4 in
<In my opinion, if you are going to try to keep this fish, it should be the only Tang in your system. They tend to have a rough time adapting to captive life, get quite large, and are rather "touchy" (ie; susceptible to illness).>
2 Purple Tangs 3-4 in
2 Yellow Tangs 3-4 in
<I'd advise you to only keep one species of Zebrasoma in this system, particularly in a group. Besides, it would be really interesting to see a larger group of the Yellow Tangs, IMO.>
1 Lipstick Tang 4-5 in
<Ok..just beat me senseless! This is a popular fish, but it can and does reach almost 20 inches in length! It's just another fish that I cannot personally recommend for captivity.>
2 Niger Triggers 2-3 in
<Whew...! Another fish that simply gets huge. If you've ever seen these guys in the wild (I have), you'll see them in groups of several individuals. Nonetheless, they can be a bit aggressive, and once again, I'd be inclined to pass on these fish, particularly in a community situation. I'd rather you consider a somewhat more peaceful Xanthicthys species, such as the Blue Chin, X. auromarginatus, or the Crosshatch, X. mento, both of which are smaller and better behaved than the Niger. That being said, they are REALLY pricy fishes, and that may be a factor. But you asked, and I'm giving you my best advice!>
That's all. And I don't like tanks cramped full of live rock
<You wouldn't want a lot of live rock with the size/number/types of fishes you are considering for this system!>
I will keep live rock at the back of my tank, mostly and leave large gaps so big fish can get around.
<I'm not a big fan of "rock walls", but I do like your idea of leaving spaces for the fishes to swim. In fact, why don't you create an aquascape that consists of several smaller aggregations of rock? This will help avoid the "wall" look, and will break up territories and help curb aggression among some of the fishes.>
BTW, my tank is 12x3x3. do you think I can add Cleaner Wrasse and Sandsifting Starfish.
<I would not ever condone the purchase of a Cleaner Wrasse, as they are of prime importance on the wild reefs. Removing them from the reef creates a gap in "coverage" from these valuable fishes, leaving wild reef inhabitants without their cleaning services. A sand-sifting Starfish is okay, assuming you have an acceptable population of microcrustaceans for it to fee upon. I'd be inclined to wait until the aquarium is well established before purchasing one.>
In what order should I stock my tank and how many specimens at a time.
<Start slowly, adding only a few fishes at a time, after proper quarantine has been completed on each fish (read up on this process right here on WWM). I would start with the Butterflies, then the Pygmy Angelfishes, followed by the Tang(s) and/or Rabbitfish. If you're going to add the Blueface Angelfish, I'd add him/her last. Once again, I hope that you understand the spirit in which my critique was intended. Although I recommend against keeping a number of the fishes you have selected, there is literally an ocean full of adaptable, appropriate fishes out there from which to choose. Please keep at the research here on WWM and other places. I am taking a very conservative stocking approach, based on my personal experience and opinions. Others may have different thoughts on the approach. Take anyone's advise with a "grain of salt", and reach your own conclusions from your research. In the end, please consider the long-term needs of your fishes and the implications of your selections. Best of luck to you! Regards, Scott F. >

Re: Compatibility 05/21/2008
Big Aquarium With Bigger Hopes (Stocking Possibilities, Pt.2)
I mailed you before and my hopes got completely shattered
<Yikes...definitely not the spirit in which my response was intended. I don't like to shatter dreams. However, I believe that we have a responsibility to the animals that we keep to provide them with the best opportunity for a long and healthy life. The stocking plan that was proposed was simply not viable, IMO>
...But I guess that you can't always have what you want.
<True in the hobby as well as in life!>
Anyways about my 800 gallon tank. Can Butterflyfish, Tangs, and the smaller Triggers survive in this?
<All depends on which species we're talking about here. Some of the larger Butterflies and Oceanic Tangs (Acanthurus and Naso species) have space requirements similar to the large Angelfishes that we've previously discussed. Triggers are similar, too. However, some of the smaller Zebrasoma Tangs, Chaetodon Butterflies, and more peaceful, smaller Xanthicthys Triggers may work. However, they still need plenty of room, even in a large aquarium, so keep the population of large fishes to a minimum.>
Also can 2 Yellow Tang's, 2 Scopas Tangs, and 2 Purple Tangs live in this aquarium together?
<I'm sure that they could, but I'm thinking it would be more successful (and more attractive, IMO) to have a group of six of the same species. Even in large quarters, the potential for inter-species aggression is a real possibility. Keep analyzing different stocking formats, study your potential fishes' ultimate sizes and needs carefully, and you'll be successful with this spectacular aquarium. Also- do consider a community of smaller fishes: Halichoeres Wrasses, Blennies, Gobies, and the previously discussed pygmy Angelfishes. Little fishes in a large aquarium is a pretty neat way to go, IMO. Good luck! Regards, Scott F.>

compatibility 5/16/08
Hello crew. I hope you are all doing great. I am so excited about getting a new marine tank (750 gallons). ok I wanted to know if these fish were compatible with each other. please answer my question because I can't control my excitement.
<Hehe, ok, but we don't typically approve or disapprove specific stocking lists. If we did, we'd be way too swamped with emails.>
ok here goes
Angelfish: koran(adult), emperor(adult), French(changing), queen(changing), majestic (adult), annularis (adult), blue face (adult), asfur (adult), coral beauty, flame
Tangs: 3 regal, powder blue, 2 yellow, 3 purple, Naso, sailfin, 2 scopas, dogface puffer
Triggers: rectangle, humuhumu, 2 Niger, black, blue throat
Butterfly: 4heniochus, 2 threadfin
1 magnificent foxface
1 ribbon eel
3-4 cleaner wrasse
can u tell me the order I should put them in?
<Um, not really... this is a LOT of fish (even for such a big tank). Some of these fish get quite big and aggressive. Generally, you want to add less aggressive fish before you add the more aggressive. But again, with so many fish, potential interactions can get pretty complicated. The best advice I can give you is to take the time to THOROUGHLY research each and every one of these fish and add livestock SLOWLY.>
I really appreciate your website and your answer
thank you
Tommy
<Good luck,
Sara M.>

Reef Tank/Compatibility/Lighting -stocking 5/12/08
Hi everyone,
<Hello>
Thanks for all the help the past month.
<You're welcome.>
Have not lost any fish in the past couple weeks. I think things are finally settled. I have two questions for you today, the first one is your opinion about what else I could put in my tank. Right now I have a 75 gallon with three Green Chromis', a Maroon Clown, a Firefish, a Chalk bass, a Dottyback, Featherduster Worm, about 45 Nassurius Snails, 20 Red Leg Hermits, 10 Blue Leg Hermit Crabs, 10 Turbo Snails,
<I think you have too many snails for that size tank.>
a Serpent Starfish, a Neon Hermit Crab, an Emerald Crab and 80 lbs of live rock. For filtration I have a Remora Pro. For power heads I have two Hydor stage 4's, a Hydor stage 3, and a Maxijet 1200. For light I have a Coralife compact with 2 65 watt 50\50 bulbs. And last, I have a couple of Lavender Mushrooms. I was hoping to add a couple more pieces of coral, such as some sort of leather, and some other kind of soft coral. I want to add a Flame Angel, a Six Line Wrasse and some sort of Blenny or sand sifting goby, does this sound practical, or like too much?
<I'd do the Flame Angel and the Six Line Wrasse. That would top off your tank capacity.>
If not, any other suggestions of what I could add other than that? I don't want anything that I would eventually have to get rid of.
<Understand here. As the Maroon Clown grows, he may cause havoc in your tank. They can become very aggressive with age.>
And while I have you, any suggestions of other easy low light corals?
<Your lighting isn't going to support Leather Corals unless they are kept in the upper third of the tank. Mushrooms and Yellow Polyps should be fine. Go for a variety of colors in the shrooms.>
Most of all, I wanted to know what else I should be feeding them, I have been giving them one cube of "Emerald Cuisine" a day, it's a frozen food that I use for omnivores,and I squirt 4 drops of extreme garlic on it while it's thawing. But I've read that I should be feeding the chromis' vitimin enriched foods to enhance colors.
<All fish for that matter.>
What would be some examples of this?
<New Spectrum Pellet Food is a good choice, probably the best dry food out there.
Cyclopeeze is also a good frozen food.>
Thanks for all of your help again, it is greatly appreciated.
Thanks.
<You're welcome. In future queries, please cap all words needing to be capped (pronouns, names of companies, etc.> along with all "i's". James (Salty Dog)>

Re: 45 Gallon Fish Only Stocking 5/12/08
Hello, Scott! (For maybe the last time? Keep them fingers crossed!)
<Hello Michelle.>
Right, to sum up my tank so that you don't have to scroll through a backlog of emails, my 45-gallon tank has two inches of sand, some bleached coral and shells, and three fish: a clownfish, black molly, and one firefish. I was planning on adding some live sand, but since I no longer have any fish requiring room to burrow I'm leaving this out.
<I would still either add a few inches more or remove an inch or so.>
The orange stripe prawn goby I had read was prone to not eating so I thought he would start eating once I had had him a few days. I never did see him eat at the fish store but I thought he might pick up, and...he didn't.
<Too bad.>
The other firefish...well, he just kind of "disappeared" into a shell, which I'm not sure is normal since the other one sprees around the whole tank at top speed. But I have not seen the disappearer since I introduced him and it's been a week so...dead? He can't be eating, anyway.
<Shy fish such as these may go a while without being seen. Although this is not a good sign, do not count him out.>
So now I'm just adding the Bangaii Cardinalfish and was planning on the chalk bass when it struck me that since the Butterflyfish is gone, I could get a Royal Gramma. I wondered if I was capable of getting both, or if they'll refuse to get along.
<I believe you could, although I would wait a period of several weeks between additions.>
Also, (this is bad of me) the whole of my school sophomore class is begging me to get a dwarf lionfish, so much that my own yearning for one is becoming overbearing. Before you think we're rushing blindly into this, I wanted to say that before I started adding new fish, we kept a scorpionfish or rockfish (that we caught full-grown 6-7 inches in the Gulf of Mexico) in my tank for about two years on live goldfish. He never touched his tankmates of the time (the clownfish, molly, and damsel.) He died in April 2007, I'm pretty sure of just plain old age.
<Hmm, likely diet contributed/is at fault. Feeder goldfish are a demising staple for these fish. They require a more marine based diet and can be taught to eat frozen offerings thereof.>
The sophomores promise that once I graduate they'll stuff the dwarf lionfish with live goldfish or guppies on a daily basis (my school subscribes to Region 20, which sends us all the free science supplies we need including feeder fish, so no worries there on cost.)
<The fish needs a marine based diet.>
I'm positive that the sophomores will keep this promise because they think that it's endlessly fascinating to see one live thing swallow another whole, and if one sophomore becomes bored with daily feeding, another will doubtless snap up the fun task.
<Overfeeding is also a common problem.>
But I'm kind of worried about the firefish if I do this, since they're rather on the small side. Do you think it is possible to keep a well-fed lionfish in a tank with smaller tankmates?
<No>
The clownfish is big enough and quick enough so I'm not worried, since he's survived the scorpionfish, and there's no love lost over the black molly, but I love my little firefish and the other fish I'm planning to add.
<All will end up in the Lion’s mouth in time… too tempting for such an opportunistic feeder.>
I thought I'd ask before I promised the kids anything (and got my own hopes up as well.) FYI, over the summer the lionfish would live in the QT tank and be stuffed three times a week.
<Do read re their feeding:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/lionfdgfaqs.htm
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/goldfshfd.htm >
Thanks so much for all of your time and advice, Michelle
<Welcome, Scott V.>

Ambitious Stocking Question- Tweaking a Stocking Plan 05/09/08
Hello Guys!
<Scott F. your guy tonight!>
I have been reading a lot of your answers in the forums and learned a lot of different things. Right now I have a 135 gallons of fish only saltwater tank using 2 Fluval Fx5. One of the canister has 1 liter of Eheim Substrate Pro and 2.5 liter of Fluval Pre-filter media. The other canister has 2 liters of Eheim Substrate Pro, 1 Liter of Fluval Bio-Max, Half liter of Fluval Pre-filter Media and Half liter of Carbon. Arrangement on the media in the baskets are based on Fluval suggestions. But instead of using a lot of Bio-Max I used Eheim media because they said it's the best. I also have 2 Koralia #4 Powerheads so I have a nice flow of water on top. Anyway, I have 100 lbs of Live Sand and 45 lbs of live rock. So far I have the following livestock:
7 Blue/Green Chromis
1 Coral Beauty
1 Blue Streak Cleaner Wrasse
1 Banded Shrimp
3 Electric Hermit Crabs
1 Sand Sifter Star
<I'm not a huge fan of keeping Cleaner Wrasses, but other than that fish, the stock list sounds ok thus far.>
The water reading is excellent and it's not changing. The water is so clear. I feed them twice a day in 12 hrs difference between feeding and I timed it that they will consume all the food in 2 minutes so I will not have waste. Put small amount of dry seaweeds 3 times a week. I change 5 gallons of ocean water every month.
<Good habit! I'd highly recommend kicking this up to 10% per month or even more frequently
For the sake of history, I added Fritz Turbo Start when I cycled my tank. Now I think I'm ready to stock some fishes and I would like to have a second opinion from you guys. New livestocks below.
2 True Percula Clownfish (Pair)
1 Blue Tang
<I'd pass on this fish in anything less than a 200-300 gallon aquarium, to be quite honest. They can and do get quite large (like 12" plus), and require large amounts of physical space. In my opinion, I think that you would be better with a smaller species.>
1 Yellow Tang
<A better Tang choice-just go with one Tang.>
2 Flame Angel (Pair)
<A MATED pair is really cool! However, you already have a Centropyge Angelfish in residence. Adding another species is a potential recipe for disaster, unless you have a very large aquarium. Territorial behavior is a huge potential problem here.>
1 Green Mandarin
<I'd pass on this one. They are slow, specialized feeders that require a very well-established system with plenty of live copepods and other small crustaceans to feed on.>
1 Magenta Dottyback or the Fridman's Dottyback
<I like the Fridmani, myself.>
If you can please let me know on how to put the fishes in order to the tank and also please let me know about livestocks incompatibility. All suggestions are very welcome. :-)
Thanks!
Ray
<Well, Ray- I think that your stocking plan will work with the minor tweaks outlined here. My stocking order would be Fridmani, Perculas, Tang. Hope this helps! Regards, Scott F. >

Additional fish...help 5/1/08
Hello WWM crews! This is my third time writing you guys/gals a letter seeking some light in this addicting hobby of ours.
I have a 90gal tank with 100lbs of live rock, 120lbs of live sand, a 30gal sump/fuge. At the moment there are no corals and the only current livestock are a pair of maroon clowns, 5 inches yellow tang, diamond goby and cleaner shrimp. I would like to add a fish or two to my current livestock but can’t decide which one. I would like to ask your opinion on what to get and/or let me know if I’m at the maximum allowed stocking already. My favorites are:
mystery wrasse or six line wrasse, blue tang (too much to ask for?)
<Mmm, no... I do think these are good choices, will fit here altogether. The Premnas may well prove to be pugnacious over time... but if all grow up in this 90... I give you good odds>
, or the least maybe two blue damsels. I don’t want to over populate my tank.
Again, thank you very much for your valuable help.
More power and continue the good work.
-Rogie
<Thank you, Bob Fenner>

Re: 45 Gallon Fish Only Stocking 4/21/08
Hey...Scott...
<Michelle.>
Worst Monday of my life.
<It can always get worse, I see it everyday!>
My nitrates, pH, temperature, salinity (1.023),nitrites, and ammonia are all fine...
<I would raise the salinity to 1.025 or so knowing your desired livestock.>
But I came in today and the shrimp was dead (intact, so the Jawfish didn't get him.) I had to shake him out of a shell.
<Likely too soon to add him, the system being unstable. These are also much better suited to a reef setting.>
And the sea hare was looking sorry (kind of droopy, which I know sounds stupid since he's a slug), so I picked him up (which I've done before and he was perky and fine) but this time he immediately inked my hand.
<Yikes!>
(A drop got in the water, but no more than that. The other fish are not appearing affected at all by it.) I think it was my fault he died because I know how toxic his poison is and it was all over him and my hand so I panicked and rinsed him off. With tap water.
<Not a good practice, this, along with environment, definitely contributed to his demise.>
Only for a few seconds, but he kind of bloated up and I immediately put him in a beaker full of his own tank water, but...
<Pure osmotic shock.>
I have no idea what went wrong with my tank. And then to top it all off my Jawfish got stuck inside a sea biscuit shell and I had to break it off of him. It was my favorite shell.
<Too bad, what made you think he was stuck? I assure you these fish can get themselves out of what we perceive as binds.>
I have decided to give up on invertebrates and the polyps since I learned the incredibly hard way. I'm a murderer.
<You don’t have to be, research and learn!>
So I'll keep testing to see if I can find out what went wrong, and I'll get a calcium test if I still need one.
<It is an important number to know, even in a fish only. The balance with Alk can give you clues as to what is going on with your water overall.>
I did a 10% water change just in case of the sea hare, and I'm resuming my old list in two weeks, minus the royal Gramma because of the butterflyfish.
<It is best to have a stocking list, planned out and researched. Avoid these impulse buys. “Look before you leap”>
If you know any side-effect-less, peaceful, small, hard-to-kill, reliable fish off the top of your head that you'd recommend to this hopeless case, I'd appreciate knowing. Unless there are none and I should just stop where I'm at until I get a little more experience.
<Tank raised Ocellaris Clowns are about as easy going and carefree as marine fish get.>
I've never had any problems with fresh water like this before, EVER.
<Marine can be a whole different world, depending on livestock chosen. Especially with inverts.>
And I've given up on a dwarf lionfish in a 10-gallon aquarium when I go to college, just so you know.
<Good move. College is tough with the fishkeeping bug. Constant moves, no money, no stability for your livestock.>
I know when I'm at the limit.
<Live and learn.>
Thanks and sorry, Michelle
<No apologies, consider this a lesson towards future success! Welcome, the best, Scott V.>

Am I the negative one? SW Way-over/mis-stocked! And, not listening...   4/16/08
Hi crew
<Michael>
Just a little frustrated. I regularly visit a Danish saltwater forum. And I have just had a discussion with this guy who keeps a 15 cm(5 Inch?)
Blue Hippo in his 46 G tank, and the fish won't eat, in addition he has the following fish: One Sexstriatus, 3 Acanthurus leucosternon, 2 dwarf angels, 2 Clownfish (Ocellaris), 7 other tangs (he CAN'T remember their names) and a Picasso trigger. When i tried to tell him that he in my opinion is way overstocked, his defense was that he has a 6 foot long tank. I wonder what the other dimensions are, I asked him about it but he hasn't replied yet. Another blogger attacked me for being to negative. Sometimes I wonder if people will ever learn?
How can you convince people like that? Any secret advice you can give me.
<Got me my friend... I say, be like the sun and shine your knowledge (in the first person) on everyone... Till experience (and even then plus for some) changes folks minds, there's little you, I, anyone can do>
Thanks for all your hard work. Many people are grateful for that, including me.
Michael Fick
Denmark
<Thank you. Bob Fenner>

Re: Am I the negative one? And CMA 2d ed.   4/16/08
Hi Bob
<Michael>
Thank you for your quick reply
<Welcome my friend>
And thanks for your advice, I will try to shine a bit (Haha). Sometimes it is just so frustrating that people don't understand why you don't stock your tank with a lot of fish. In Denmark we have a saying that goes: you feel like you are talking to a door: Meaning people won't listen.
<Is the same with humans most everywhere... just got to keep trying, smiling...>
Thank you for sharing your knowledge, and your wisdom.
Michael Fick
P.s Bob when will the new edition of The Conscientious Marine Aquarist be out.
<Is out soon... Microcosm/TFH sent me a copy two days back... Is gorgeous... but only in hardbound... I found it on Amazon's Canadian site... for 70 CA$! Paperback out in maybe another 18-24 mo.s...>
I have tried to look at different internet book sites, but I can't seem to find it.
<Thanks for asking. BobF>

Subject: compatibility – 3/18/08
hello crew. i hope you are all doing great. i am so excited about getting a new marine tank (750 gallons). ok i wanted to know if these fish were compatible with each other. please answer my question because i can't control my excitement. ok here goes
Angelfish:
koran(adult)
emperor(adult)
french(changing)
queen(changing
majestic (adult)
annularis (adult)
blue face (adult)
asfur (adult)
coral beauty
flame
Tangs:
3 regal
powder blue
2yellow
3 purple
naso
sailfin
2 scopas
dogface puffer
triggers
rectangle
humuhumu
2 niger
black
blue throat
butterfly
4heniochus
2 threadfin
1 magnificent foxface
1 ribbon eel
3-4 cleaner wrasse
can u tell me the order i should put them in?
i really appreciate your website and your answer
thank you
tommy
<Please read here: http://wetwebmedia.com/index.html>

saltwater fish, Poor English, clownfish comp., no reading    2/24/08
Hello again guys,
<Vinny>
you are by far the best website around, I bought a Powder Blue Tang and after reading about him I decided not to put him in main tank, he was
in quarantine with yellow tang and they both started fighting the second I put them in ,so I don't want to give myself the headache of them fighting and breaking out with ich ,so I guess my question is ,im looking for blue fish
<?>
to make my 75 gallon tank complete ,its a reef tank with a Yellow Tang ,Flame Angel ,2 false Percula Clowns and a Bicolor Blenny. everyone gets along just fine ,I also would like to add 2 more clowns because the false percula clown doesn't go near my bubble tip ,will different clowns get along ,once again thanks for any information you guys can pass along thanks Vinny
<... please... run your writing through grammar/spelling checkers before sending... Read here: http://wetwebmedia.com/clncompfaqs.htm
and the linked files above. Bob Fenner>

new 650 gallon tank -02/23/08
hello. bob and team
im getting 8ftx3ftx3.5ft marine tank.
and I am an intermediate
im going to buy the best equipment available here are the fish that I want to keep
queen angelfish
emperor angelfish
majestic angelfish
Koran angelfish
annularis angelfish
cream angelfish
Volitans lion
2 yellow tangs
2naso tang
2 regal blue tangs
2powder blue
im making sure that the pairs are male female
are these fine in this sized tank..
also can I add 2 Moorish idol juveniles....
thank you for your information and I love your website.
bye
<To start, please see the following:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/fishindex3.htm
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/fishonsetup.htm
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/reeflvst.htm
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/MarLvSel.htm
...and many other articles on these topics.
You have a lot of reading to do. I'll let you get started. :-)
Best,
Sara M.>

a question -02/24/08
hello my homies
I was just wandering
can I add soft corals and anemones with angelfish, tangs, lionfish, and some buytterflies...
<Please do your own homework and do get your hands on a copy of "Reef Aquarium Fishes" by Scott W. Michael.>
thank you for your info
<Please show your thanks by only writing to us using proper grammar and spelling.>
sincerely
tommy
<Best,
Sara M.>

SW fish sel.... actually, using, not abusing WWM   2/2/08
Hello, I have a 30 gallon saltwater tank and have a couple questions maybe you could help me with. I currently only have a six line wrasse and a pink bar goby. I would like to add a long nose Hawkfish
<... not enough room for an Oxycirrhites... you didn't follow directions, read ahead of writing us>
and a yellow watchman goby . Could these four get along? If they wont would a neon goby or firefish be alright?
Thank you in advance,
Sherra
<Please... learn to/use the search tool, indices on WWM... your "answers" and more that you need to know, but aren't aware of it yet, are all posted. B>

Captive Bred Marine Fish 11/7/07
Hi again guys,
<Hello Mike>
Thanks for all the help setting up my reef tank so far. All is going great (knock wood).
<Great.>
I am interested in adding tank bred live stock (e.g. False Percula, Banner Cardinal). No LFS in my area consistently offer captive bred fish. Can you recommend some on-line providers that are reputable?
<Yes I can. Don't know your whereabouts, but my choices would be:
www.drsfostersmith.com (Wisconsin)
www.premiumaquatics.com (Indiana)
If you live near the West Coast you may try:
www.marine depot.com (California, believe San Diego)><<Mmm, no... OC. RMF>>
Thanks,
<You're welcome. James (Salty Dog)>
Mike

Showpiece def.   10/20/07
Hello,
<Hi Joe, Mich here.>
Good evening to all of my fellow enthusiast.
<And to you as well.>
I have a simple question that I have always wondered about.
<There are many simple questions that I wonder about!>
What makes a tang a "show tang" or any fish a showpiece for that matter? Are there certain qualifiers? Is it all about size, shape, and/or color?
<Mmm, in the marine world… good looks, good genes... same as asking what makes a "cover girl". Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Though there are differences in freshwater species as there are actual specifications for competitions.>
Thanks a bunch!
<Welcome!>
You guys and gals keep up the good work.
<Will try!>
Best Regards,
<And to you Joe, Mich>
Joe

75G FO choices. Thinking Small For Long-Term Stocking Success!   9/25/07
Hello all,
<Hey there! Scott F. in today!>
Pardon the length, but some history for you.
After considering several options/budget issues and much research here), I am setting up a 75G with an in-sump refugium as a future home for a small group of more aggressive marine fish. The display will be lit by two standard wattage bulbs, and decorated with about 70lbs of base rock. Water will circulate through a 30G sump at about 450 gph (actual sump volume of about 15-20 gallons, including the 'fuge) and the refugium will have its own pump running around 150 gph through about a ten gallon volume which will hold a 5" DSB, some live rock, and
macroalgae.
<Sounds like a well-thought-out plan>
The 'fuge will be lit by 36w of CF lights.
All that said, my kids are "helping" with the setup and selection, and they are wanting a Yellow Tang, a Lunare Wrasse, and a Picasso Trigger as tankmates. My oldest loves the Harlequin Tusk, but not ready to spend that much just yet.
<Yikes! Quite a mix for a 75 gallon tank! I hate to be a "buzz kill", but I wouldn't even mix those fishes in a 175 gallon aquarium. These fishes all require a lot of physical space, get quite large, and give off copious amounts of metabolic waste. Not really ideal in this situation, IMO.>
My question is this...I see this stocking working for a max of up to two years' time, then having to trade, etc, which I don't like to do.
<Neither do I. Often, the trades never happen, or the larger aquarium we intend to get doesn't come to pass so quickly. The fishes then languish in an aquarium that is too small for their long-term happiness.>
I love either a Picasso Trigger or Harlequin Tusk as a single wet pet, but concerned about getting single fish syndrome.
<Well, either of these fishes could do okay in a 75 for maybe a year, tops. Then a much larger system would be required.>
Once I have this set up, I will seed the tank with cured live rock and some live sand, then
wait for a good month before adding anything, testing the whole way. I really want this to be a one shot effort.
<Your methodology sounds fine, but the stocking plan is really not a good one, IMO. It's best to stick with fishes that can live their entire lives in an aquarium of this size. Maybe you could fall in love with "smaller versions" of the fishes that you are considering. There are no truly smaller Triggers, but how about trying a smaller Hawkfish in place of the Trigger, a Halichoeres species wrasse in place of the Lunare, and a Pseudochromis for color? I really wouldn't keep a Tang of any sort in an aquarium less than 6 feet in length. They really need the room to roam! Think about smaller fishes...Trust me- it's a better long-term solution!>
Thanks for a great site!
<My pleasure.>
PS-Can you give me the title of the newest book regarding refugiums? I can't find the reference I saw earlier....
Stan
<Well, Stan, I'd consider Bob Fenner and Anthony Calfo's "Reef Invertebrates", which has a great section on refugia. Or, you could check out the latest volume of the Sprung and Delbeek's "The Reef Aquarium" series, which discusses them as well. HTH. Regards, Scott F.>

Re: 75G FO choices. Thinking Small for Long-Term Stocking Success! 9/26/07
Thanks Scott!
<You're welcome!>
Not what I wanted to hear, but what I needed to hear.
<Well, sometimes it's necessary to be a dream crusher for the greater good, ya know!>
Other choices we have considered are (unrelated list) Flame Angel, various Dwarf Lionfish, and/or a Passer's angel (though not with the Flame, if that comes to be).
<Well- pass on the Passer's...gets too large!>
We were originally looking at a tank of dwarf angels, but thought that would be awfully slow to look at.
<Not really...but problematic in a system of this size. All sorts of possible territorial problems.>
I am still leaning toward having just three medium sized fish, as opposed to a tank with many small ones, but it is looking like that is how we will go.
<Smaller is never bad>
Forgot to mention there will be two skimmers (until I get the big one) in the way of an Aqua C Remora and a Bak Pak.
Thanks again...I'll keep at the research.
Stan

Planning Ahead On 75 Gallon Marine  9//15/07
Good Evening,
My name is John, and firstly I must applaud you all for doing a fantastic job on helping all these other aquarists and myself. I learn a lot from these articles and from your responses from other reader's questions.
I have recently acquired a 75 gallon tank that I want to start up as my first saltwater system. I am someone who likes to plan ahead before starting something up, and therefore I want to discuss stocking options with you. Here are a list of fish that I like:
1. Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris)2. Black Percula Clownfish (Amphiprion percula)3. Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto)4. Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris magnifica)5. Kaudern's Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kaudneri)6. Flame Angelfish (Centropyge loricula)7. Blue Hippo Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus)8. Blue Neon Goby (Elacatinus oceanops)
Would I be able to stock at least some of these?
<Mmm, yes... actually all... I would have two of the clowns and firefish...>
May I please ask your advice on these fish, or maybe other fish you can suggest that I stock.
Thank You All For All Your Help.
<Welcome! Bob Fenner>

Re: Planning Ahead On 75 Gallon Marine   9/16/07
Great thank you.....can you suggest the order I should stock them in and a time span between each?
Thank You
<The Clowns, Gramma... a few weeks going by... cardinals, tang, gobies, angel... after, as you find them. Bob Fenner>

Looking For Advice On My Stock List, And Progress. SW filtr., gen. stkg.  – 09/02/07
The web site is very helpful, and I appreciate the input on my tank.
<<We’re happy to assist>>
I have done a lot of reading, and it seems most everyone has a strong opinion on certain topics.
<<Indeed…most any topic here, really>>
I have discovered that to care for an aquarium, it takes patience, research and experience; and I take all advice into consideration.
<<Good “advice” in of itself>>
Started 2-4-2007: rectangle 55 gallon with (2) Penguin powerheads, under-gravel filter,
<<Yikes, this takes me back to the 70’s!...do consider a better filtration method>>
Aqua Tech 30/60 power filter hanging on the back,
<<Mmm, more “retro” marine filtration…I had a 55g marine system that was set up very similar to this…in 1977! If you have researched as you say you have then you are aware there are “better ways”>>
Full fluorescent light hood. 33 pounds of live rock with lace rock,
<<The “Lace Rock” is a gamble…it will likely contain harmful elements that will leach in to your system…best to remove this>>
on a crushed coral bed.
<<Another possible source of problems…coupled with the UG filter pulling “everything” deep within this substrate>>
78 degrees, hydrometer reads 1.020 salinity.
<<Your salinity is MUCH too low…should read 1.025/1.026>>
Instant Ocean Ocean Master test kit: alkalinity 10, ph 8.2, no ammonia, nitrate 10,
<<Do keep the Nitrate from edging any higher>>
low range nitrite .2
<<Toxic…should be zero…and is likely a result of the UG filter and/or the hang-on filter>>
Stock:
3" sailfin black blenny Atrosalarias fuscus
green clown goby
blue chromis
green Chromis
(2) -2" aquacultured percula clowns
3" Coral beauty angel
<<Can be delicate…is better housed in a larger, more mature system>>
2" Blue hippo tang
<<Needs a much larger tank…at least “three-times” the size you have>>
3" Green spotted puffer
<<A totally unsuitable fish here…and I’ll guess, is the reason your salinity is so low…to the detriment of your other livestock. Do remove this fish and place in its own suitable environment, or return it to the store>>
3 snails, 1 astrea, 2 orange turbos
4 peppermint shrimp
One miniature hermit crab
black brittle starfish
Kenya tree corals
<<Elaine…more reading for you my friend. The path you’re headed down now is only going to lead to heartache and frustration. Please start here (http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marine/setup/filtration/marineFiltr.htm) and follow/read among the associated links in blue at the top of the page. Also, please use keyword searches of our site re your livestock for info on care/proper environment. If you have more questions, you know where to find me. Regards, EricR>>

Fish stkg. help... using WWM   8/27/08
Hi I have a 75 gallon reef tank with a cardinal Banggai, yellow watchman goby, maroon clownfish and last week I purchased a Yellowheaded jawfish and a royal Gramma. My first question is: I saw my jawfish the first day I put him in but I have not seen him lately.
<To be expected... are secretive... take a while to acclimate...>
I noticed the goby switched to a new rock that day although I first believed the jawfish was under the rock but since then the goby has been under the new rock. I was wondering if my goby could have killed the jawfish.
<Is possible, but not probable...>
I thought the two were compatible. I think the jawfish is dead I saw a clear looking something floating under one of the other rocks I'm not sure if this is the fish but it sort of looks like a tail. The fish were added on Thursday and today is Sunday and the jawfish has not been seen yet.
Just a side note about two weeks before I purchased a jawfish and about two days later he was laying dead in the tank.
<You should quarantine, isolate new stock... to allow it to rest up, for you to observe, make sure it is healthy... ahead of placing in a main/display tank>
I thought this was due to shipping and stress, but now I'm not sure. My next question is if I add a pistol shrimp for the goby would it also be ok to have a cleaner shrimp?
<Should be in a volume of this size>
And sorry I'm sorry this is a long letter , but I have one more question...When my tank is ready for a mandarin fish I wanted to add one would he be ok with the two shrimp and the yellow watchman goby. I've been told this was fine but I wanted to double check. Also will the shrimp be fine with the above fish and later I plan to add a yellow tang, flame angel, and reef safe wrasse. Thank you for your time and help. I want to make sure the fish I get are compatible as much as I can. Also the water in my tank tested to be fine.
<Please read re all these species you intend to place... on WWM... Maybe starting here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/WWMAdminSubWebIndex/question_page.htm
BobF>

Re: fish help, lvstkg.  – 08/27/07
I wanted to let you know that after I sent you the email and five days after I bought my jawfish I saw him this morning underneath the rock! My goby is not a double murderer thank goodness and my jawfish is alive. Thanks
<Ah, good. BobF>

How many fish can I keep in my 55 gallon? Over stocking! Poor selection of fish. Lots of research recommended. – 8/01/07
Hey guys and girls of the crew.
<Good Morning EZ! Brenda here! I have received both of your e-mails and will answer both here.>
I have a 55 gallon tank with these fishes in it:
Sailfin tang 3 inches
<Yikes! Tank is much too small>
Unicorn tang 4 inches
<Ouch!>
Moray eel 7 inches
<There are several different species of Moray Eels. Many need a 125 or larger aquarium. More information here: http://www.liveaquaria.com/search/default.cfm >
Key hole angel 3 inches
<Borderline tank size for this fish.>
Spotted puffer 3 inches
<Tank size is border line. A larger tank is preferred. This fish can also be aggressive towards others.>
3 clownfish 2 inches
<Two is the limit here!>
7 damsels 2inches
<Disaster waiting to happen!>
1 hermit crab
1 banded shrimp
I have a fluval 405 and a sea clone protein skimmer on it and I do water changes every 3 weeks. This protein skimmer is not known to perform well.
Is this enough for my fish?
<No, unfortunately it is not. Please research every animal and your equipment before you purchase.>
$$$$$$$$ITZ NOT EZ BEING ME$$$$$$$$$
<Brenda>

How many fish can I keep in my 26 gallon? Over stocking! Poor selection of fish. Lots of research recommended. – 8/01/07
Hey guys and girls of the crew
<Hello EZ, Brenda again!>
I also have a 26 gallon with these fishes in it:
Clown trigger 1 inch
<This fish requires a tank of 125 gallons or more.>
Dogface puffer 5 inches
<This fish requires a tank of 100 gallons or more.>
7 clown fishes
<Again, two is the maximum here, unless you have a system of a few hundred gallons or more.>
3 damsels
<This is too many damsels for such a small tank. Damsels are aggressive fish.>
I have a fluval 405 running with a sea clone protein skimmer and I change the water every two weeks.
Is that good?
<Again, this is not going to work. You have far too many fish in each of your tanks, many of which need much larger systems. Please research your animals and equipment before you purchase.>
$$$$$$$$ITZ NOT EZ BEING ME$$$$$$$$$
<Brenda> <<A jokester... RMF>>

New Fish Suggestions...Perhaps A Nice Wrasse – 07/03/07
Hey guys,
<Hi there, Mich here.>
I've read over your FAQ's and read up a lot about Dartfish and Jawfish husbandry.
<Wonderful!>
I currently have a Purple Dartfish and a Pearly Jawfish in my tank and I am considering putting another fish in there to liven up the scene.
<OK.>
I am considering a Six-Line Wrasse but in my reading I found out that they may be aggressive towards shy and passive fish species.
<Yes.>
Can you recommend a fish that stays under 3.5" that would be an active swimmer and a good tankmate for these species?
<Wish I knew what size tank your working with. Perhaps a flasher wrasse? Most are quite beautiful, stay relatively small, are usually not aggressive and tend to be active swimmers. But a word to the wise, they are jumpers so only keep in a covered system. More here:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/paracheilinus.htm
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/paracheilinusfaqs.htm and related links in blue.>
Thanks so much for the wonderful website and all the help.
<On behalf of Bob and Crew, you're welcome! Mich>

Re: please advise... Re? Amongst hundreds of thousands of disparate FAQs... can't find you    7/2/07
Bob,
Thanks for the review and response. Knowing my current livestock
<Ahh, please always send along prev. corr... I DON'T know your situation...>
how big of a system should I get to house all the things I currently have?
<Bigger... please see WWM re the species you have/list re their "Systems"... this is posted>
I will not treat the tank again with No-ich per your advice and I will get a QT tank this week if the white things do not disappear on their own. Love your site, thanks again.
Rachael
<Keep reading! Bob Fenner>

Best fish Selection for a 215-Liter tank    – 06/19/07
Hello there!
<Hello Clint, Marie here>
I have a 215-liter tank,
<57 gallons>
With a V2 Vectron Protein skimmer, Fluvial 405 external filter and recently installed a UV Sterilizer along with two power heads! Live Sand and Live Rock. What fish selection would be suitable for the tank? I have made mistakes in the past with stocking levels, and from a Trip to Egypt and the red sea can see and respect how much space these fish need.
<Great, then you know how important careful research is before you begin>
Please help, as I would like the best display possible and a happy tank.
< In order for me to begin to answer your question I would need to know more about your system and the type of fish you are interested in keeping? Do you plan on keeping coral, clams or other photosynthetic specimens in your tank as well as fish? If so you will need to make sure you have compatible inhabitants and proper lighting? How much live sand and live rock do you have? What are the flow rates of your power heads? Also you may want to consider a more effective filtration system such as a sump and refugium, which would enhance your biological waste removal. I would suggest you start by reading the Aquarium Stocking and selection article located at http://wetwebmedia.com/MarInd3of6.htm and the filtration articles and the marine filtration articles at http://wetwebmedia.com/marine/setup/filtration/marineFiltr.htm.
Once you have more information please get back to me and we can discuss your original question>
Clint
<Thank you Clint for your inquiry>

Saltwater fish stocking  3/16/2007
Hi - I hope you can help.
<<Will try.>>
I have an 80g marine set up for around 3 years now, with the following inhabitants:
1 x Flame Angelfish
2 x Black-tailed Damsels
1 x Royal Gramma
1 x Long-nosed Hawk fish
6 x Scarlet hermit crabs
3 x Soft corals
<<Sounds nice. Keep an eye on the damsels' aggression...not sure quite what species you mean.>>
How many more fish would you say I could add before it becomes fully stocked?
<<Numbers of fish are not practical.  Too many variables with size/territoriality.>>
I would like to add a slightly bigger reef-safe fish in the near future. I am torn between the long-nosed butterflyfish and the regal tang. Do you think that my tank could accommodate either of these fish? If so, which would you recommend?
<<Absolutely not the Regal tang.  Your tank is far too small to house this fish.  You may get by with the butterfly, but bear in mind this means no clams in the future.  I personally think you should keep your flame angel as your main show fish.  Depending on the species, the damsels you have likely grow larger than you think.  I would personally go for a school of smaller, active fish, like the green or blue Chromis.>>
Also, on another matter, if I were to add some Lysmata cleaner shrimp, do you think they would be safe from the hawk fish?
<<No guarantees.>>
I understand that this can be a risk, but I haven't actually heard or read of anybody having their shrimp eaten by this fish. Is this something you have witnessed?
<<I have, yes, most often during moulting.  More often with other hawk fish species with larger mouths.  Adding shrimp much larger than your hawk will help.>>
Many thanks - your website is my bible :-)
<<eeek!!>>
Luke
<<Hope that helps Luke. Lisa Brown.>>

The Conscientious Marine Aquarist... Copper/test kit use... SW livestk sel.  – 03/09/07
Mr. Fenner,
<Patrick... sorry this has taken a while to respond to... We have something artifactually wrong with our webmail server... and a bunch of incoming (mostly from Apple products) comes in "trayless"... which a few of us here can re-route (through their Apple products)... so's others can respond...>
   First off, my name is Patrick Myer and I have been keeping marine aquaria off and on since 1986.   I recently purchased and completed reading your book “The Conscientious Marine Aquarist” and I just wanted to be the latest to tell you what a fantastic work it is.   
While geared for the new aquarist to beginning reefer, I have taken a  great deal of tips from the book and wish that there was that kind of literature available when I started.   I have had to learn so much of my info thru trial and (lots of) error and could have definitely avoided many of them if I’d read your book first.  I also read your article a few months back in FAMA about Emperor Angels (Pomacanthus imperator) and enjoyed it as well.   I currently have a 4-5 inch specimen that I have a definite kinship with.  I’ve had her (I just decided to label it a she) for nearly a year now and she is doing  superb.  She sure does like to “investigate” things as though she were a toddler.  Again, many thanks for your book and your website.   
You are an absolute, top-notch asset to the hobby and this rock we live on.  It would be a pleasure to meet you one day.
<Thank you for your kind, encouraging words>
   I live in Virginia Beach , VA where I serve as a Lieutenant in the  Navy, and while there are some great folks here that do try in  earnest to do the right things, every system in this town is so infected with Cryptocaryon irritans that I have to copper treat everything.
<Yikes!>
I had a couple losses trying to dose copper effectively until I found a brand and test kit that matched and worked effectively.  I realized and read that there could be some problems with that, but boy did I find out how bad it can be.  I was using SeaCure with a Salifert test kit and the test kit said I had no detectable copper, but when my tang started having seizures, I bought a Red Sea test kit and it read 0.3 ppm!!  I would like to be able to find specimens that can QT and NOT have to always copper treat since it is not a benign drug (as you certainly know).
<Ah, yes>
Can you point me in the direction of some online places that sell good stuff where I might be able to have a chance at not medicating my specimens?
<My faves are the Marine Center and Dr.s Foster & Smith... they seem to have the better suppliers, staff, consistent treatment of livestock... No one can be perfect in the regard to preventing the passing of impaired livestock, but these outfits, as etailers come closest... And I would like to add there are some excellent retailers as well (e.g. AquaTouch in Phoenix), that also "do their duty" in providing adequate quarantine, careful purchasing...>
Any help would be greatly appreciated.  I really want to be a conscientious aquarist.
Sincerely,
Patrick Myer
<Thank you for writing, sharing Patrick. Would you please send along the names... copper brand and test kit, that you found useful? Was it the AS SeaCure (copper sulfate) and Red Sea kit? Bob Fenner>

Marine Fishes, Compatibility  - 01/24/2007
Hi there
<Hello.>
,I have a 100g (inc. sump) tank. Water quality I would say is 8/10.
<What do you think is missing...or maybe there in too much quantity....that makes it only a 8?>
Currently I have a few soft corals and these fish: purple tang
<Watch the adult size on this one.>
(3in) percula
clown (3in) blue-yellowtail damsel
<Watch the aggression level on this little dude.>
(2in) pyjama cardinal (2in) coral beauty
angel (3in) rabbitfish (3in).
<Also watch the size on this guy.>
Ultimately I want to add 2 firefish, a 6-line wrasse, a yellow tang and a hardy butterfly.
<Long-term, you have a lot in this tank already, two surgeons will not co-exist in this tank together. simply not enough room, and the adult sizes of the already stocked rabbitfish and surgeon...well I would prefer more room.  Personally I would remove the rabbitfish or the tang, omit the planned tang and butterfly for the future, the wrasse and firefish are far better choices.>
I've been offered a Starcki damsel which looks nice. my questions:
<..But can be aggressive, I wouldn't mix it with the already established damsel.>
1. Is 80g of tank space with a fair amount of rock going to be ok for 2 damsels.
<Maybe, maybe not...depends on individuals, it's a risk, one I personally would rather not take.>
enough room for them to keep their distance?
<Physically yes, psychologically, well see the above comment again.>
2. Similarly, is it enough room for the 2 tangs (Zebrasomas) to mind their own business?
<Not at all my friend....>
Thanks for your thoughts!
<Anytime.>
Barney
<**AJ.>

Re: Lots of questions... stkg.   1/16/07
Hello again, and thanks for entertaining that mixed bag of questions. I forgot to include that we already have a Royal Gramma.  He/she is a favorite but doesn't come out much unless the bright lights are off.  What I'm wanting to add is another active, colorful fish that is bigger than a Gramma or Pseudochromid and that would be out-and-about most of the time, sort of like the tangs. Believe me, I've been looking and researching for weeks/months but haven't come across the right one yet.
<Mmm... I'd keep looking, investigating...>
For example, I'd really like a Majestic Angel (Navarchus) but don't see it working out in this particular tank...
<No... not enough room>
I'm just checking to see if the Crew has an idea that I might not have thought of.
Thanks,
Tom
<Don't want to overly-influence you here. BobF>

Creating Coralline and Preventing Overcrowding!
Hi there,
<Hi there! Scott F. here today!>
A few questions about my 168G FOWLR tank, with a 70G sump and refugium. With 250 lbs of live rock, 3 inch aragonite sand bed with varying thickness. Lighting consists on two 48 inch actinic tubes and 4-30w power compacts. The tank has a venturi skimmer with DIY filtration in sump with sponge, bio balls, carbon , ammo rock, Zeolite. Refugium has some macro algae coming up.
The main tank has the following inhabitants:
Queen Coris -1 (4 inch)
Cleaner wrasse -1(2 inch)
Fire clown -1( 1 inch)
Coral Beauty -1( 2.5 inch)
Double saddle butterfly -1 (1.5 inch)
Lunar wrasse -1( 5 inch)
Azure damsel -1 (1.5 inch)
Three spot damsel -2 (3 inch) **** Planning to remove
Hermit crab blue legged -1
The main issue is with live rock, the growth of coralline algae is almost nil also the whole rock looks dead by now.
The parameters are all normal. The tank has been up and running for the past six months, with regular blooms of diatoms.
How much should the lighting be spruced up to for better coralline and invertebrate growth in live rocks?
<Well, you didn't specify all of your parameters, so I'll just make some general suggestions here. Corallines tend to grow in environments with sufficiently high calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium levels. You might want to get test kits to measure these parameters (if you don't already), and you'll get a better picture of what's going on with your system, relative to the lack of coralline growth. The fact that you are experiencing diatom blooms is indicative of some sort of nutrient excess in your water, usually silicates and some organics. Do consider utilizing high quality source water (if you aren't already), such as RO/DI (ideally your RO/DI unit would have a high-silicate removal stage), and aggressive use of protein skimming and chemical filtration (i.e.; activated carbon and/or Poly Filter). Consider ways to increase calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium if these are not at sufficient levels. You could use two part supplements, such as "B-Ionic", Kalkwasser dosing, or investing in a calcium reactor to increase alkalinity. Regular frequent water changes with a high grade of reef salt will replenish most of the other required elements used by corallines.>
Would it be ok to add an Odonus niger with a Picasso trigger and a bird wrasse to the system?
<Hmmm.. If it were me, I would not add either one to this mix at this point. You have a pretty nice mix of fishes that still have some growing to do, so the space will be at a premium in the near future. If you really want to add another fish, I'd keep it at just one more, and I'd limit my choices to smaller specimens, such as a Halichoeres species of wrasse, a Pseudochromis, Blenny, or maybe a smaller Hawkfish. Lots of cool fishes to choose from. Your fishes will thank you later for exercising restraint!>
Thanks in advance!
Adios Amigos
<My pleasure! Regards, Scott F.>

Re: Fish per gallon? 1/3/07   1/7/07
<Greetings, Jennifer.>
I went to that link... < http://www.wetwebmedia.com/stocking1.htm  > had some info I hadn't considered.  
<Good to hear - well... read.>
I am a big fan of under stocking but I hadn't considered moving rocks in the tank around to diffuse territories...thanks for the advice!  
<Hmm, I thought that was old-hat. Maybe it's just my mentors...>
I'll keep doing my research....husband will just have to realize we can't stick Shamu in a 55 gal!
Thanks again!!
<Always a pleasure to be of use. (I was actually worried about my mention of some species, since I really think people should build their own system, not mine or the local shops owner's)
-Graham T. >

What kind of an anemone did I purchase?  Packed in Like Sardines, Much to Learn...   1/6/07
Hello everyone at WWM!
<Hello Kevin!  Mich with you today.>
I first wanted to say that your site is an awesome place to do research and learn about keeping aquariums.  
<Glad you like it!>
I always loved fish and never got a saltwater aquarium but now I have one.  I'll give you some specs on my aquarium first and then maybe I can get some info from you guys about this anemone I have.
<Alrighty.>
10 Gal tank (I know very small environment but I have a 50 gallon filter, a small power head and 30 gallon protein skimmer and I was told by one of my LFS that it would be sufficient for a mini tank) and 50/50 lighting (don't remember if that's what the numbers were, but the LFS told me that this would be sufficient to sustain an anemone in a 10 gallon tank)
<!>
1 False Clown
1 Domino Damsel
1 Striped Damsel (don't know if that's the name)
1 Yellow Tailed Damsel (don't know if that's the name either but it's body is blue with a little yellow tail)
1 Green / Blue pear colored Damsel (this one I picked up at some weird looking fish store but it was like 2 bucks so I just got it)
<This is not a good philosophy! These are living creatures, for which you are assuming responsibility.>
1 Anemone.
<Way, way, way too many fish in a 10 gallon tank!>  
All of the fish are no bigger than a quarter in size and seem very happy.
<They are not happy...  They are extremely overcrowded.  This is causing environmental stress, there is just not physically enough room for each fish to be comfortable.>  
The clown hosts the power head and loves to swim up behind it and sleep there at night.  The Domino Damsel hosts only at night with the anemone and snuggles up with it while it sleeps.  The fish are not aggressive towards each other in any way (except for when any fish get close to the power head when the clown is there).    
<They may not be showing outward signs of aggression, but this is a very stressful environment, akin to setting up 3 sets of bunk beds in a small bedroom.>
So my question is what kind of anemone do I have?  I have gone on the website to look for information but I just can't figure it out.  I don't have a camera, but the entire anemone is white from foot to base to tentacles.  The mouth area is perfectly circular and pink.  The tentacles taper to small points and are occasionally a neon green color, but as of this moment they
are brown.  The other damsels have run into the anemone completely but don't look like they get stung at all.  The only one that seems to hate the anemone is the clownfish (but I think it's because I bought him from a store that sold tank raised fish).
Any clues?
<My best guess without a photo would be a Condy (Condylactis gigantea).>  
Also, I made the mistake when I first set the tank up by using crushed coral instead of sand.  If I wanted to switch to sand, can I just use regular sand or do I have to buy that bio sand stuff with all of the bacteria in it?  
<You cannot just use regular sand, however you don't need to buy bio sand either.  If you convert to sand you want an aragonite based sand. Crushed coral isn't a bad substrate and there really is no need to change from this.  A deep sand bed is typically used for nitrate reduction.  You are going to have nitrate problems with your tank because you have several times more fish than is appropriate for your system.>   
I figured if I just use most of the water from the tank now and then used some seawater from my LFS that it'd be fine.   Thanks for all of your help and thanks for your awesome site!
<Kevin, as you start out in this hobby, I think you would be very wise to invest in as book called "The Conscientious Marine Aquarist" by Robert M. Fenner.  If you only buy one book this is the book to get.  It is essential as a beginner and something experience aquarists often reference.  This hobby is one that requires a commitment to a lot of learning along the way.  Please consider the book and continue to use the website to educate yourself how to best provide for those in your care.  There is much to learn -Mich>   
Kevin

Re: Fish compatibility and introductions 1/4/07
Thanks for the reply but what should I do in the mean time. The 300 gal will not be set up until next year. The quarantined fish are in 20 gal tubs.  
<Sorry, I must've read over that part somehow. I assumed all fish were happily housed in either the 120gal or the bowfront. I have to say, I'm not sure if getting more livestock to add in with your mean Lunare is a good idea unless you have plans to make a drastic change in there (decor-wise) to disorient him as well as the new arrivals. I would be especially concerned about the Hogfish since he looks enough like a wrasse to be taken as a threat by the Lunare.>
Do you think it would be a good idea to take out the wrasse for a week or two then add the whole group to the tank and see how it goes?
<Worth a shot... but why not keep the wrasse in the bowfront and you'll have a happy little setup in the 120?>
Also The Cuban hogfish is in hiding and has not eaten anything since his arrival 2 days ago.
<Normal.>
I'm thinking about buying some live black worms (cold water variety) and/or glass shrimp. Do you have any other suggestions?
<Not yet. Just give them time to adjust. The Foxface (Siganus vulpinus, or do you have a different species?) is usually a timid introductee to a new system, and may take longer than you are used to settle in.>
The fox face has not eaten either that I know of although I put in a piece of feather Caulerpa and it seems to be missing.
<...>
Again thanks for all you do.
<Happy to help, and I apologize for the mix-up. -Graham T.>

Stocking / Compatibility   12/19/06
Hi Crew,
    I am going to start a 90 gal FOWLR in the next week or two (had to give up my two parrots last weekend - noise!).
<Oh yes... Psittacines can be raucous to the extreme>
I was thinking of a Snowflake Moray, Saddled Puffer (Canthigaster valentini), and  a Humu Picasso Trigger, but have a few questions.
<Mmm, the last two will very likely bite, pick on the Eel...>
    First, do  you think the valentini is too small given the sizes of the Moray and Trigger.
<Mmm... might not be able to compete during feeding... but Tobies are tough animals...>
If so, what might you recommend?
<Mmm, for you to read... consider other livestock choices. What you list is not really compatible, suitable for this sized tank>
  Lastly, if I am not overcrowded, can you recommend a schooling or shoaling species (Anthias?)
<Yes... posted on WWM>
that I may be able to add.     You guys and gals do a fantastic job and perform a great service for all of us.
    Happy holidays to all
Regards
Roy
<And to you and yours. Bob Fenner>

Re: Stocking / Compatibility  12/20/06
Robert,
Thanks for the quick reply.  What if I went with a gray Moray and either the Picasso or a Masked Puffer?  Sort of a Red Sea biotope.  Do you think this may work?
Roy
<Is a good mix... Make that Rhinecanthus an assasi and you have a deal... but you'll either have to do massive water changes, have plenty of circulation, filtration... and/or a much larger volume/system. Bob Fenner>

Re: Surgeonfish and tank compatibility   12/16/06
Hi again Mich,
<Tom, my friend, hello again!>  
Thanks for your response.
<You are most welcome.>
I can understand that they <surgeonfish> like a nice big space to live and get big in (heck that's why I live in a house, not a box :) ).
<Hehehe!  Very true!>
What size aquarium do you think one would need to keep a nice happy group of tangs?
<I'm not sure there is such a thing as a nice happy group of tangs in an aquarium, but I would say well over a hundred gallons, closer to two hundred, the bigger the better to have some semi-happy tangs.>
I am thinking it would be much bigger than I am considering, but just in case, down the road I'm up for a large challenge it would be good to know.
<Actually in many ways it is easier to maintain a larger tank than it is a smaller tank, except maybe on the pocketbook.>
I just have one more question for you today.
<Go for it!  Though I am look forward to tomorrows question also!>
Do you think it would be possible to keep a small school <shoal> of blue-green Chromis in a 20G tank?
<Chromis viridis can get pretty big, to about 3.5 inches.  I would say a 55 gallon tank would be best for a shoal.>
If a 20G isn't too small, how many would I be able to house comfortably?
<I think it's too small.  There are some cardinalfish that shoal that would be appropriate for a 20 gallon tank.  I would avoid the more common Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni) and Pajama Cardinalfish (Sphaeramia nematoptera) as they get a little big but something like a Threadfin Cardinalfish (Apogon leptacanthus) could work.>
Once again thank you very much for your time, and I hope you have a great Christmas.
<Again, you are most welcome.  Happy Holidays to you my friend.  -Mich>
Tom

Information needed!!! Looking for SW livestock in France 11/22/06
Hi,
<Hello Sasha! Tim answering your question today!>
I live in France and I am looking for buying a fish, seahorses and corals on international market.
So far, nobody is selling overseas. Please, help me to find some place that is ready to send overseas.
I was searching trough sites in USA, writing E-mails and nothing so far!?
Please help!!!
<Dear Sasha, while I completely understand your frustration at not being able to obtain the livestock that you desire, I would strongly advise against obtaining any livestock from abroad. Whilst marine fish are of course imported from abroad, this is on a very different scale involving large volumes of water and special transportation practices and documentation. Additionally, even this initial journey is very traumatizing for the animal and depending on species, one finds that only very few actually survive. As such, the small plastic bag in a Styrofoam box that online retailers may offer is wholly unsuitable for long distance transport of livestock. Additionally, there may be import restrictions on certain livestock, violation of which may cause you unnecessary legal problems. If you do find a company willing to send their livestock abroad, you will undoubtedly find that there is no guarantee of your animal or coral arriving alive. France undoubtedly has some very fine fish shops - I would suggest you do more searching within France for your own benefit and that of the livestock you wish to acquire. Best of luck. Tim>
Sasha

Re: Looking for SW livestock in France   11/24/06
Hi Tim,
Thanks for reply.
<My pleasure - sorry that I could not be more helpful!>
Yeha, I know that the best would be to find it in France but, the problem is; that the French love their aquariums but they have one of the worst live stocks. Second they practically have no farms here. So, this is the basic reason that I was looking in the States. They really have a nice options.
In any case, I thank You very much for the effort and wish You a good Thanks
Giving!
<Sasha, although not ideal, depending on where in France you live you may want to consider obtaining your livestock from Germany as a last resort. Otherwise if there really is such a lack of good shops in France, perhaps that is a great business opportunity you could consider! :o) Happy Thanksgiving to you too! Tim>
Sasha