Stocking a New System- Slow and Steady, Reef  – 8/19/07
Hello everybody!
<Hey there! Scott F. at the keyboard today!>
Thank you so much for always being there with an answer when I live in an area where the LFS's are always just pushing to sell sell sell.
<"What will it take to get you to buy this Golden Dwarf Moray Eel? If I throw in a 16 ounce package of frozen Mysis, would you sign on the dotted line...?">
I recently migrated from a 30 gallon reef (realize now how hard that is to start with) to a 90 gallon (what can I say. the bug bit me). I had the 30g running for about 14 months fairly smoothly before I made the upgrade. The
30g is still running with roughly 7lbs of LR and 30lbs of live sand to act as a qt system for my new tank as I go through the stocking process.
<Always a good use for an old system!>
My new tank is fully cycled - I used about 30lbs of rock from my 30g tank, plus added another 100lbs. The new system has a 20g sump with 4-5 inches of live sand and 7-8lbs LR - the tank itself has a 6inch DSB. It currently has 3 Green
Chromis, and 1 Pacific Cleaner Shrimp (transferred from my smaller tank), a Blue Neon Goby (also transferred) as well as a handful of Xenia, Zooanthids, a Pearl Bubble (who suffered from the move, but is starting to
show improvement) and a Green Cup Coral, who seems happy no matter what I do with him - as long as he is on substrate, doesn't like the rock too much. My 30g did also have a Leopard Goby, Bicolor Pseudochromis, and Firefish
Dartfish (all sold to a friend). I want to stock the 90g with the following, and am looking for advice on bioload, compatibility (I know its touchy due
to personalities), and the qt process.
Yellow Watchman Goby
<A nice fish. You need to make sure that food is getting down to him/her.>
Pair of tank bred ocellaris clowns
<Always a favorite!>
3-5 orange striped cardinals (advice on this? 3 or 5?)
<Great fish, and I'd go for 3>
Yellow tang
<Nice>
Kole (yellow eyed) tang
<A great fish- but in this sized system, I'd go with one Tang or the other...Even though they belong to different genera, the tank isn't large enough to support both, IMO.>
8 lined (or 4 lined depending on supplier definition) wrasse
<The Four Lined Wrasse is a great fish, IMO. Can be a bit feisty at times, but otherwise a nice fish to have.>
Bioload permitting, another firefish
<I'd add this fish before the Wrasse, because they are far more timid, IMO.>
Does this seem like a bit much?
<If you leave out one of the Tangs and, you're still at maximum in this aquarium, IMO.>
What order should I add these animals?
<Goby, Cardinalfish, Firefish, Clownfish, Tang, Wrasse- that's my call. Again, you're really pushing it on stocking, IMO, so go slow and refrain from adding more fishes if things start getting to hectic in this aquarium.>
I have the 30g setup and ready to act as a quarantine tank. should they go into the same quarantine tank simultaneously?
<I would add fishes slowly and gradually to any system, so I'd probably start with 2 or 3 small fishes in the quarantine system at one time. The Cardinals would be added to your display early on, so they can all be quarantined together.>
My thoughts, and correct me if I'm wrong, I was going to add
the Cardinals next, followed by the pair of Clowns, and finally the Tangs and Wrasse.
<We're almost thinking identically here!>
Should I spread out this populating process giving 4 weeks for
each set in qt?
<Yup!>
All at once?
<No way...go slowly...what's the rush?>
Is it safe to quarantine a variety of these fish
together?
<Passive fishes may be quarantined together, but since you're going slow, you can literally quarantine one or two at a time.>
I already have the 3 green Chromis which I do plan on keeping - can/should I add 2 more to make 5?
<Enjoy the three that you have, and think about your stocking limitations. Choose varieties and quantities of fishes that you really want, and that your system can ultimately support.>
I don't want to shock my system, and am
curious on what the experts think!
<I'm no expert, but I've made pretty much every mistake that you can in this hobby, and one of the best lessons that I've learned in a lifetime of fish geek behavior is to go slow.>
Thank you so much in advance! You have always been a reliable and fast answer for all my reef keeping needs!
Josh
<Thanks for the kind words...Continue on- slowly! Good luck! Regards, Scott F.>

Aquarium Questions... reef stkg.    8/18/07
Hello, this is my first time writing in questions, thank you for the posting of other's questions on the wonderful website.
<Hello and welcome to the tropical salty side>
I have kept fish since I was very young in Freshwater tropical tanks, and in high school kept a cold saltwater tank. My job while I'm in school right now is as a diver doing tank maintenance in the 6million gallon fish only Living Seas Aquarium, and spending time with so many saltwater aquarists I have finally decided to start my first warm saltwater aquarium, which I intend to be a reef aquarium but I am starting with just live rock for now.
My current so far is a 120g All Glass 48x24x24, a RS135 Euroskimmer, and a 50g custom sump, with outerorbit metal halide/t5/LED lighting system. 180lbs of Fiji Live Rock 100lbs of Live Sand small grain.
<This is all a good start>
I am trying to plan ahead fish for the tank and have spent time looking at reef compatible fish, mostly semi aggressive.
I am in no rush to add fish quickly I intend to allow the tank to fully cycle between each addition, so I am just asking you about my preliminary possibilities of fish and if they are sensible for a reef aquarium and so I am looking at them by max sizes so I don't underestimate their growth.
The list is as follows with the max sizes, and the aggressiveness that I've been told they have. Before you review the list please know that I do understand that I will not be able to house all these fish, I am just wondering if you see any obvious problems with this list and their compatibility with each other or with reefs.
Thank you so much for any help in advance.
Pinkbar Goby 4"
Cryptocentrus aurora
Peaceful Reef OK
<this is a shrimp goby and would do well with a pistol shrimp.>
Catalina Goby 2"
Lythrypnus dalli
Peaceful Reef OK
<I recommend against this species as it prefers temperate waters. It will survive in tropical waters but IMO will not be happy>
Red Head Goby 2"
Elacatinus puncticulatus
Peaceful Reef OK
<This goby may not be compatible with the other gobies. I say it would be trial and error to see if they are compatible>
Six Line Wrasse 3"
Pseudocheilinus hexataenia
Peaceful Reef OK
<excellent fish and recommend one in every reef tank>
Bicolor Pseudochromis 3"
Pseudochromis paccagnellae
Semi-aggressive Reef OK
<another great fish but does not like other blenny/goby combinations>
Springeri Pseudochromis 3"
Pseudochromis springeri
Semi-aggressive Reef OK
<again very territorial and may not be compatible with other Pseudochromis>
Spotted Mandarin 4"
Synchiropus picturatus
Peaceful Reef OK
<This fish should only be added after the tanks copepod populations have increased. These fish are difficult to feed, try frozen Mysis shrimps>
Blue/Green Reef Chromis 3"
Chromis viridis
Peaceful Reef OK
<schooling fish but would not add more than six>
Yellowtail Damselfish 3"
Chrysiptera parasema
Semi-aggressive Reef OK
<More aggressive than semi-aggressive. Would pick one type of damsel/Chromis and make a school of six. Not mix them>
Firefish, Helfrichi 2.5"
Nemateleotris helfrichi
Peaceful Reef OK
<Should be fine, but are notorious jumpers.>
Firefish 3"
Nemateleotris magnifica
Peaceful Reef OK
<same as Helfrichi for care>
Tail Spot Blenny 2.5"
Ecsenius STIGMATURA
Peaceful Reef OK
< http://www.wetwebmedia.com/trublennies.htm again, some blennies will not tolerate others so trial and error again>
Chalk Bass 3"
Serranus tortugarum
semi-aggressive Reef OK
<another good reefsafe fish to add>
Spotted Cardinalfish 3"
Sphaeramia nematoptera
Peaceful Reef OK
<no problems with this fish>
Kaudern's Cardinal 3"
Pterapogon kauderni
Semi-aggressive Reef OK pair
<I would keep up to 6, another good species for a reef tank>
<Hope this helps Rich aka Mr. Firemouth>

Re: Aquarium Questions... reef stkg.   8/20/07
<hello again>
I'm sure you probably hate this sort of question, but how many of these fish is it realistic to plan to use over time if I'm planning a medium density reef.
<We at WWM would rather have you ask questions than overstock a tank.>
As to the damsels when you suggest up to six of just one species is that regarding just those fish in the 120g tank, or is it regarding in addition to some of the other fish. Would several clownfish be appropriate to fill the gap of the several Chromis or damselfish?
<the reason I state up to 6 damsels is they usually will reach 3"+ and become aggressive to others. 6 is a good number for a 4 foot tank. Yes you can add other fish to the mix. The clowns should be purchased as a pair if you find a good dealer. An additional fish could be a tang in the Zebrasomas category like a yellow tang, or a purple tang.>
Thank you for the link to the goby page that was wonderful, really changes my stocking ideas in relation to them.
<I am glad I was able to help with the gobies. I suggest you go thru some articles on stocking the aquarium here...This page should keep you busy...
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/MarInd3of6.htm
thanks Rich aka Mr. firemouth>

My 125 gallon nightmare... Reef... stkg. for one    8/15/07
Greetings WWM crew,
I have recently discovered your site, and am suffering from an extreme case of information overload. Let me first give you a little info, before I ask for some. I purchased my first tank about 7 ½ years ago. It was a 36 gal bow front All Glass with a plastic hood, 20 watt 50/50 bulb and a Penguin 170 power filter. The fish store I bought it from also sold me 40 lbs of live sand, 4 or 5 lbs of live rock, a plastic cave, a test kit, 35 gallons of filtered natural salt water, 3 damsels, a royal Gramma, another fish I can’t remember, and a book. I took all of this home, set it up, and watched my fish, except for the one I can’t remember, miraculously survive. A month or so later I added a Penguin 330 just because I figured more filtration was better. Over a 7 year period I did little other than once a month 20% water changes and occasionally replace a dead fish or add 1 or two new ones. I lived a blissful ignorance, only interrupted by occasional trips to the LFS where I would see beautiful corals, fish and live rock that I couldn’t have only because of lighting and space restrictions, as far as I knew.
<I suspect your experience mirrors somewhat the majority of folks...>
That’s all changed now. In one of my trips I saw a 125gal All Glass (72x24x18 not drilled) with a stand and hood that matched my living room furniture and, I thought, my dreams.
<Heeee! This too!>
My plan, conceived in ignorance though it was, was to move everything from my old tank to the new one and slowly add new fish, rock, inverts, and coral. I first purchased a new Penguin 350, and set it up in my old tank for 2 months to cycle it. Next I bought the new tank, 60 lbs of live sand, 3 cheap 48” double tube fixtures from Home Depot, and 6 6500k 40w bulbs. I set it all up. Put my 350, 330, and 170, on the back, added my panther grouper (8”) and my Picasso trigger (5 ½”) and moved the old tank out. That was 6 months ago. After a month I removed the plastic decorations. I then added 40 lbs live rock, a little at a time, a 3” yellow tang, a 3 ½” porcupine puffer, and what started as a 1” red emperor snapper, but quickly grew to 5 ½ inches.
<Beats getting eaten>
I also changed the bulbs to 1 actinic, 2-10,000k, 1-20,000k and 2-6500k's. I next added two Magnum 350s and changed out the 170 for an Emperor 400. This is when the trouble started. I noticed all the polyps on the rock starting to shrink. I talked to the owner of a LFS and he suggested a protein skimmer should do the trick. I, again in ignorance, bought a SeaClone 100 rather than the used Prizm the LFS owner tried to sell me for $180.
<Wouldn't have gotten either myself>
Next I bought a BTA, a red tree sponge, and a Sebae anemone
<Yeeikes... anemones...>
and 2 Clarks clowns (my grouper ate the clowns). My cheap lights rusted and started to malfunction so I bought a 72” Coralife Lunar Aquastrip Deluxe (4-96w PC’s, 6 LED’s). Next I traded in my snapper and trigger, thankfully, at this point; only for store credit (I can’t get my girlfriend to let me trade the grouper and puffer yet). Next my tang got sick, I Googled “fin rot on a yellow tang”, and found your site 7 ½ years (or at least 6 months) too late.
<Heeeee! At least you're here now>
My questions about the tang were answered but many new questions arose. My levels are; am-0, nitrite-0, nitrate 30ppm,
<Too high as you likely are aware>
ph- 8.3, 80 degrees F. I don’t know the others.
New plan!
Set up the old aquarium (much to my GF’s displeasure) to cycle 50 lbs live rock (if it will fit) with sunlight, and my old Penguin 170. Purchase a Coralife Super Skimmer, Turboflotor 1000, or Current USA Fission Power Protein Skimmer. All of these fit better into my newly created budget than the Remora, but, I need more research before I make a decision.
<Yes... look about a bit more... the Remora is best of those listed... a sump/refugium and in-sump model... far superior>
Lastly, I plan to scrap the 330 and 170 and move the 350 to the old tank / new quarantine tank. I hope to keep the animals I have alive with weekly 20% water changes until I can get the new set-up stable. I also plan to add 40-60 more lbs of live sand when I add the new rock. This has been a costly and frustrating experience so far. I only wish I’d found your site sooner. Any suggestions would help.
Sorry about the book and any grammar or punctuation errors. I’m a construction worker and don’t write much.
Thanks,
Ron
<I do think you have the beginnings of a very good... useful/educational... and entertaining article here... Obviously a good mind, quick wit, and clever memory... I would proceed as you hint you have been... with investigating your possibilities and the planned moves. Do please take a read re all the livestock you presently have... and of course, any you consider... before acquisition. Cheers, Bob Fenner>

Several Questions Really... Stkg. reef fishes   8/9/07
Good Morning,
<Yawnnn!>
Thanks, as always, for all you folks do! I continue to learn so much from you all!
<Ah, good>
I currently have a 50 gallon tank - about 100 lbs. live rock and a few (very few) corals - mostly mushrooms.
<Pardon my interjection/s... Corallimorphs are not strictly speaking corals>
Inhabitants are:
5 Green Chromis (Chromis viridis pretty sure)
2 Firefish (Nemateleotris magnifica)
1 Bicolor Blenny (Ecsenius bicolor)
1 Lawnmower Blenny (fortunately, he and the bicolor never see each other) (Salarias fasciatus)
1 Mandarin Dragonet (Synchiropus splendidus)
1 Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma veliferum)
<Gets too big for this setting>
1 Male Lyretail Anthias - in quarantine and waiting on his harem - (Pseudanthias squamipinnis)
2 Skunk Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis)
1 Peppermint Shrimp (Lysmata wurdemanni)
Several hermit crabs, Nassarius snails
Ammonia, nitrite undetectable. Nitrate about 25. PH, temperature, all else good. No fish mortality in the show tank other than a firefish that jumped to his death (left the tank uncovered one day and he wound up behind the dryer vent) and 1 Chromis as soon as I set up the tank. I have lost a couple of fish in quarantine, but, I think that was more due to preexisting conditions.
I have a 100-gallon running side-by-side with it that has about 60 lbs. of live rock and I will be moving everything over to it once I'm confident that it's running well.
<Oh! Good>
My planned stocking in the 100-gallon would be all of the above plus:
3 Blue Reef Chromis (Chromis cyanea)
2 Neon Gobies (Gobiosoma oceanops)
3 Female Lyretail Anthias
My questions:
1. I originally purchased four peppermint shrimp because I was starting to see some Aiptasia. ALL Aiptasia was gone in a matter of hours (those guys were amazing!) Now I'm down to one shrimp. I have no idea what could be happening to them. Is it possible that the skunk cleaners are eating them?
<Yes>
I've never seen anybody harassing them, but, it used to be that they were always out, all over the tank, now the one that is left hides under the rock constantly and only comes out at feeding time. Any other possible predators on my livestock list?
<None that "jump out", though the most likely are the Algae Eating Blenny and Tang>
2. I would really like to get a pistol shrimp/goby pair, but am concerned with the disappearances of the peppermint shrimp that something might have a taste for shrimp cocktail and don't want to add another one if it could be a problem.
<Should be okay>
3. I would like to get a flasher wrasse - a filamented or carpenter's; however, have heard they might not be compatible with the Anthias. Is that accurate?
<Is a possibility; but I give you good odds in the 100>
4. Does the stocking list above look okay to you, too heavy or room for more?
<Mmm, about right>
5. I know the answer to this, but have to ask anyway (don't you love how we all do that?): My favorite fish is undoubtedly the YTBT (Dory). 100 gallons is too small and mixing him with the sailfin is a bad idea, right?
<Should be okay as well>
Thanks in advance! You all rock!
Wes
<Welcome! Bob Fenner>

Stocking a system   7/25/07
Hi,
<Hello there>
I sent you some questions a while back about my original 72 gal. system, and you all were very helpful, so I thought I'd try it again. ;-)
Someone local made me an offer I was far too weak to refuse, and as a result I've moved from a 72 gallon to a 180 recently, and I'm amending my fish plans. I've spent a bit of time reviewing through various websites, including this site, and have hopefully put together a reasonable plan, but I would appreciate a sanity check before I start working towards picking up any of these fish.
<Sounds good>
The system: 180 gal tank, ~90 gallon refugium, and 55 gallon sump (probably 20-25 gal. of water), for a total system volume just under 300 gallons. I have about 150 pounds of live rock in the main tank, and a  pile of rubble and other rocks in the refugium (I don't know how much, probably 40-70 pounds. I use a 40 watt UV and a 30" tall 8" body skimmer from reefmania: http://www.reefmania.net/ps8.php. I drip Kalk with the auto top off, and as the number of corals increase I may add a calcium reactor. Lighting is 3x 250 watt MH with XM 10k bulb and reflectors, 2 x 110 VHO actinics, and 2x80 t5, one actinic, one white.
(Yes, that lighting was cobbled together from "affordable" bits and pieces.) I also rotate a filter bag with carbon from time to time.
<Allright>
Inhabitants: Currently I have 5 blue-green chromis, relatively small to medium, that have been with me about 9 months. I have one Foxface (Siganus Vulpinus), probably about 6 months old. I have one maroon clown, currently small, about 4 months in my tank, and one coral beauty, about 2 months in my tank. I also have an RBTA,
<Likely an anemone will do fine in such a large system... of this sort>
a couple polyps, a frogspawn, a candy cane coral, and a mushroom rock. I will probably be adding corals as well down the road. I'm also interested in adding a clam or two, but have not researched this adequately yet.
<You present a "good attitude" here... very useful in the real world>
I also have various inverts. I have one cleaner shrimp, numerous Cerith snails, a couple Turbos, and a couple random snails that originally came with the used 72 gallon I started with. There are also two of the small version of the blue leg hermits.
I had two questions for you, one probably relatively easy. First, I wanted to make sure I'm not heading towards overstocking this tank by adding the following fish. The second is if you think I may have compatibility issues with the following fish, or recommendations you may have for others.
Unless there are conflicts or health issues, over time I am interested in adding (would be in stages, at my pace it would probably take well over a year to add these):
1 blue hippo tang (Paracanthurus hepatus)
1 purple firefish
<I'd stock two or more... social animals>
1 desjardini sailfin tang
<Will ultimately get quite large... several inches>
3-6 of an unknown small fish, any suggestions? Looking for something like the chromis, small, peaceful, colorful, (possibly schooling), fish that swim in and out of the reef. I am interested in the Bartlett's Anthias or Lyretail anthias. I do know I'd have to work at it feeding them, as I only feed once a day currently. I think they would be compatible otherwise. I'm kind of stuck here though, besides the chromis, most of the small fish I know well seem to me to be more suited for a more aggressive fowler tank. Any recommendations, or would Anthias work well in this system? Any particular number of them you would recommend for this system?
<A small odd number... 3,5,7... Perhaps consider the Cardinalfishes here as well...>
I also am considering two other categories, depending on how well they would fit (I don't want to overstock):
<Take your time and you'll be fine>
One other tang, either a powder blue (Acanthurus leucosternon), a Naso (Naso lituratus), or a convict tang (Acanthurus triostegus).
I'd love to have a Unicorn tang instead, but they seem too get too large for the system I have.
<Mmm, yes... given the propensity for the first to carry/spread Crypt, the second's large size... I'd go with the Manini (the common name for the Convict where I'm out currently in HI>
1 green mandarin dragonet, depending on how the system looks down the road.
<Mmmm... I'd place... likely a pair of these... in the refugium itself...>
Any thoughts you can offer on whether this would be too many fish, or if these species are not good ideas, would be most appreciated.
Thanks.
John
<Slow and steady wins the non-race as well John... Plod along here, investigating the species you encounter, consider, and all will be well. Bob Fenner>

Stocking Order 7/13/07
Hello Crew,
<Hello Sandra.>
Hope this finds everyone well and enjoying life!
<Am well and enjoying life, but not as much as Bob is in HI.>
Let me start by explaining what is prompting the question.
I have a new 75g Oceanic RR System that is about to be going thru cycling, 30g sump/refuge, AquaC Remora Pro with Mag 3 pump, went with hang on type cause no room in stand for their in sump models. 80lbs of sand, life rock not sure of amount cause most of this is coming from an already established 50g. In the 50g is a Yellow Tang, one black and white clown and one orange and white clown, a Four Striped Damsel,
<Mr. McNasty here.>
a Scooter Blenny, one Coral Banded Shrimp that will not be getting to live in the new tank, haha. Not the best choice for a cleaner shrimp although we love watching him. There is also 3 Sand Sifting Starfish, seems like a lot of them I know but one was sent there cause of an emergency from another tank and wanted to make sure he didn't perish.
<Three of these guys will starve to death in a 75 gallon without supplemental feeding.>
4 turbo snails and a few assorted corals. Three things made me NEED (notice I said need and not just want lol) sw tanks, one, the Yellow Tang, two, the Sun Coral,
<Not an easy coral to keep, prefers moderate to high flow rates and low light. I might add that this is one of the few corals that does
not have symbiotic algae and must be fed daily. Do read here and related files above. http://www.wetwebmedia.com/dendrophylliidae.htm>
three, a Flame Angel which has to be one of the most beautiful fish I have ever seen IMO of course. So, I purchased one today along with him a little friend Skunk Cleaner Shrimp to keep him company and help keep him healthy, they are living happily in QT both doing well and establishing a nice relationship it seems.
<Good>
Ok getting back on track here to the question. Everything I have read indicates these fish living peacefully together, correct me if I am misinformed about that. The question is (drum roll) as these are the only fish I ever plan on putting in that tank in what order would be best to move them into the 75 when it is fully cycled and ready? They have all been together for the last year now and only the Flame Angel will be the new kid in town. I originally wanted more than one Tang but with the room that just one alone requires to be healthy and have lots of room to move I have since decided on just the one.
<Smart girl.>
The orange and white clown might be getting left behind and getting his own tank with a BTA after I do more research on the BTA to make sure I can give it what it requires to thrive. I have made my beginner mistakes and spur of the moment purchases and learned some lessons the hard way.
<Sandra, I would put the tang in last. As for the others, the Flame Angel first, then after that, it really doesn't matter.>
Sorry that was so lengthy, hope you could find my question in all of that LOL
Thanks always for the great job you guys do in helping us all become better at keeping our small piece of the ocean alive.
<You're welcome. Sandra, in future queries, do check your punctuation and cap proper nouns. It saves us much time if we do not
have to edit the queries before posting. Keep in mind, we are all volunteers and spend an average of one hour per day answering queries. Thanks, James (Salty Dog)>
Sandra Caldwell

Re: Taking Stock...(Stocking Selections).  Keeping Fish Where They Belong! Reefs?   7/10/07
Scott,
<Hey there!>
I thank you very much for some great suggestions. I have in fact considered a Royal Gramma--I like them a lot.
<An awesome fish...Not its fault that it doesn't come from the sexy South Pacific...LOL>
I also like the Canary Wrasse and the Pseudochromis fridmani, and I have always liked the Flame Hawk, but I thought all of the foregoing would prey on my cleaner shrimp and other inverts?
<I'm not overly concerned about the Wrasse preying on the shrimp as much as I am about the Flame Hawk. The Pseudochromis falls somewhere in between, in my experience. Again, this is based on my experience- your results may vary!>
Also, your suggestions raises an issue about which my wife has also been bugging me--currently, my tank is not covered. The fish you suggested jump, so I will need to find a glass canopy. The problem is, I can't seem to find one that fits my tank. I have a 20 year old (but still looks great) Oceanic 110gXH (48"l x 18"d x 30"h). All of the canopies made for a 48" inch tank that I could find come in at lease 2 pieces and require a center brace, which my tank does not have. Any thoughts on how I might solve this problem?
<Yep! Two possibilities. First, you could get some lighting eggcrate and cut it and cable tie it to fit your aquarium's openings. Yes, it will diffuse some of the light (that is what's it's made for!), but it keeps fishes where they belong. The other idea is to use a plastic mesh material that you can find in many home improvement stores, called "rabbit fencing" or "animal fencing". It looks essentially like chicken wire made of a plastic material, and it can also be cut to fit. Either of these materials will definitely help keep most of these little fishies in the water where they belong, instead of becoming "reef jerky"! Best of luck! Regards, Scott F.>

School of Fish... How About Some Cardinals 7/5/07
<Greetings, Mich here.>
Thanks in advance for the help.
<Welcome!>
I wanted to ask which small fish you would recommend for a 160G reef tank that would swim in a school. I have tangs and a clown right now.
<I would recommend one of the Cardinalfishes. Banggai (Pterapogon kauderni) have successfully reproduced in captivity. Pajama Cardinalfish (Pterapogon nematoptera) or the similarly looking Orbiculate Cardinalfish (Sphaeramia orbicularis) are possibilities. Threadfin Cardinals (Apogon leptacanthus) do well in shallow water reefs and are typically quite peaceful and should not be kept with aggressive fish. The Orangestriped Cardinal (Apogon cyanosoma) is another hardy choice. More here:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/cardinal.htm
Good luck! Happy researching and stocking! Mich>

Best fish Selection for a 215-Liter tank, Reef  7/5/07
Hello Marie,
<Hello, Clint, Hope you had a nice 4th!>
<Clint has a 57-gallon tank with 2 power heads, a V2 Vectron Protein skimmer, Fluvial 405 external filter and UV sterilizer.>
I have added two small Perculas to my tank, joining the Azure Damselfish I already had. The Damsel had been in there for about 3 weeks before adding the Perculas. I will not add anything else for a while now. I've changed my mind about the Pygmy Angelfish and thought maybe a Royal Gramma and possibly a Blenny such as a Red Sea Mimic Blenny? What do you think?
<The Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto), is a perfect choice. The Red Sea Mimic Blenny (Ecsenius gravieri) can sometimes nip at your large-polyped stony corals, small polyped stony corals and/or clams. Something to keep in mind if you plan on adding any of these to your tank at a later date.>
I have recently replaced one of the powerheads with a Tunze 6045 Nanostream to increase water circulation to 4,500 litres/hr.
<Great, this is a nice powerhead for the size! >
I'm also changing the lighting I had with an Arcadia Luminaire with two T5s. The idea being that the space between water surface and lights could help me control the tank temperature better.
<Sounds like you have made some well though out changes to your system. The t5’s should reduce the heat production and give you enough lighting to try some soft corals (depending on total wattage) if you are so inclined>
<Let me know how the new addition works out for you, Marie>
Clinton Hamilton

Stocking and Compatibility, SW, Reef  6/22/07
Dear Bob and crew,
I am enjoying your site very much, thank you.
I'm still struggling (agonizing is more like it) over stocking options and compatibility issues.
I have spent many hours ruling out various species for various reasons, including I will admit, that they simply did not appeal to me.
I'll begin with the usual run down for you.
Basic Set-up: Three month old 72gal. Bowfront, 80lbs LR, 1-2" Reef Sand, Eheim Pro-ll Filter, Hang-on slightly oversized Skimmer, Maxi-Jet 1200 Powerhead.
Stock: Various Snails and small Hermits, smooth Brittle Star, Fighting Conch, Blood Shrimp, small Coral Beauty, 2 small Percula Clowns and a Pixie Hawkfish.
(This is the group of fish I wrote you about that all hang out with the Shrimp in the same end of my tank)
Feather Duster, Colt Coral, Toadstool Coral, Glove Polyp.
Feeding: Full Spectrum sinking pellets AM, frozen Mysis PM, Phytoplankton every few days, Kent Iodine supplement & Liquid Reactor Calcium buffer once per week.
10gal water changes bi-weekly, Water quality tests weekly. Temp. 77-78deg., PH 8.2, S.G. 1.023, no measurable signs of ammonia, nitrites or nitrates.
So far - so good. One big happy family (except my Colt occasionally resembles limp broccoli?).
<Do keep your eye on this Alcyoniid... can be trouble...>
With your help I have managed to avoid some stocking blunders (so far), thank you.
Researching your site also steered me away from a very nice Powder Blue Tang I saw (rats).
I'm thinking I might be two fish away from "stocked".
Option 1.
A salesman (not to be confused with a marine expert, I've learned) at an LFS caught me eyeing a very beautiful Flame Angel.
I voiced my concern about the mix with my Coral Beauty even though she's not aggressive (yet) and there is lots of room, LR and hiding places.
<Mmmm>
He told me that the odds of the two getting along increases dramatically with the addition of a third, also different, Dwarf Angel,
<No...>
in this case a Lemonpeel (which I learned was a False Lemonpeel with the help of your site). Potential for aggression aside, this combination to finish my tank is a very attractive one indeed, but I have never heard of or read this "threesome" theory anywhere.
<Not likely to work...>
Is my small collection of Soft Corals likely to survive this even if it is true?
<These not likely an issue>
Side Note: This salesman also suggested I acquire a "Carpet Anemone" for my Clowns,
<What? NO!>
and that it (the Anemone) was easy to care for and did not require special lighting. I have not read this either.
<Is NOT so...>
Option 2.
Still two of my absolute favourites, Zebrasomas, one Yellow and one Purple (if I can ever find a Purple, that is)
<Wait a while... are seasonal...>
As far as I can read, these are smaller than other Tangs, should get along well with my mix, feed easily and be more likely to leave the Corals alone.
Did I just answer my own question?
<Yes, but I'd stick with just one species, specimen of Zebrasoma here...>
Any thoughts you might have would, as always, be greatly appreciated.
Thank you
Mike
<Please read on WWM, elsewhere re these, any other species you intend to keep... re their Compatibility, Systems... And do look around for another fish store, or at least remember to take this persons (and mine for that matter) input with a big bag of synthetic salt mix (not a grain!). Cheers, Bob Fenner>

Re: Stocking and Compatibility, SW, Reef  6/23/07
Thank you Bob & Crew,
Your prompt replies and helpful information is very much appreciated.
My list of "scratched" fishes is beginning to look like quite the grocery list, though.
<Heeee! My grocery list often looks like a list of scratched fishes...>
Your site scratched my Potters Leopard Wrasse idea as well. Too bad.
<I really like this Macropharyngodon... mainly for practice in swimming, photography while I'm out in HI...>
It was beautiful.
At least I'm not digging fragments out of my tank. (This means I did not buy the Dwarf Lion either)
Ok. I'm scratching the Yellow Tang too and going with just the Purple Tang as per your one Zebrasoma per customer recommendation.
Until we meet again. (Ok... until I need your help again?!)
Keep up the great work.
My fish thank you.
Mike
<You, they are all welcome in turn. BobF>

Fish Compatibility – 06/11/07
Hello Crew,
<Casey>
I thought I had done my homework, but now I'm not so sure. I'm sorry to bother you, but I'd rather be safe than sorry. I have a 29 gallon tank that has been running for 7 months with an inch of aragonite and 30 lbs of live rock. No ammonia, nitrites, or nitrates. Specific gravity is 1.025 and temperature is 79 degrees. The tank contains a 4" Longnosed Hawk Fish, a
<Needs more room than this>
2" Banggai Cardinal, a 2.5" Coral Banded Shrimp, 6 hermit crabs, and 10 snails. All of these inhabitants were moved from a 55 gallon established tank that I purchased 6 months ago. My only other addition was a Euphyllia Torch Coral. All inhabitants are doing well.
A month ago I purchased 2 small Ocellaris Clowns who I had planned to become my final addition to the 29 gallon tank.
<The Oxycirrhites may go after them...>
They have been in a luxury 10 gallon quarantine, and are now a little more than an inch. The quarantine is set up to become a stand-beside refugium after I was done quarantining the clowns.
<Good idea>
The tank has an Aquaclear power filter rated for 50 gallons that I was going to remove once I plumb it to the 55 gallon, a 4" DSB, 10 lbs of live rock, Chaetomorpha, and tons of copepods and amphipods. Today was the end of quarantine for the clowns (they've been healthy the whole time) and I moved them into the 29 gallon. I acclimated them in a clear specimen container inside the 29 gallon. The other inhabitants didn't seem to take notice. Then I release the little couple, and it took about 30 seconds for the Longnosed Hawk to charge toward the poor clowns.
<Ah yes>
He nearly caught one, and I'm pretty sure he's viewing them as a meal.
<Yes>
The Coral Banded Shrimp also made attempts to grab one of the clowns.
<Yes... are predaceous>
The clowns are curious (and maybe a little stupid as they were tank raised and probably haven't even seen other fish and shrimp), so they swim right up to the shrimp. The clowns are now back residing in the 10 gallon luxury quarantine that I'm thinking will need to become their permanent or semi-permanent home.
<Mmm, too small...>
From the things I've read, I thought they'd be compatible with the other inhabitants in the 29 gallon tank.
<Perhaps if they were introduced first... allowed a couple weeks to become acclimated...>
Do you think I'm overreacting?
<No!>
Is it safe to put them in?
<Ditto>
If not, how large should they be before I put them in the 29 gallon tank? If they are a poor choice for this set-up, what fish would be a good addition?
<I would switch out the CBS and Hawk... put them in the luxury ten... the Clowns in the 29... for a few weeks>
Finally, I'd like to add another coral or two, but I know the torch coral has sweeper tentacles.
<Yes... and gets so large that it will fill this volume>
Is there room to put another torch coral?
<Another Euphyllia colony, species here is a very poor idea>
What other compatible coral could I add to such a small system? I have 72 watts of T-5 lighting. I do have some Pulsing Xenia that I could move from my 55 gallon. Do you think that would be a good addition?
Thanks for the service you provide. I spend hours on your site! You guys rock!
Casey
<Please read here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marine/inverts/index.htm
Bob Fenner>

Small Water Column Fish -- Revisited 6/6/07
This exchange was from December 2006, but nothing has changed since then so I will include it for background (I have highlighted critical tank specs and inhabitants so you don't have to read the entire thing), and then get to my question.
<Hi Randall, Mich with you again half a year later.>
======
Greetings to the WWM staff.
<Good evening to you! Mich here.>
I have been considering adding some really small, peaceful "water column" fish to my 58-gallon reef. Something approximately freshwater neon tetra-sized.
<Pretty tiny, usually around 4 cm or 1.5 inches.>
The tank is heavily stocked with coral; a mixed-reef that has been running for several (8) years. There are 4 fish (all have been in the tank for over a year): a pair of Ocellaris hosting in an H. crispa anemone, a Royal Gramma, and a male Blue Mandarin. I do not want any "rock picking" type fish that would compete with the mandarin (although he eats frozen food from his "diner" jar a couple of times a day and is not relying entirely on the tank pods).
<Lucky him / lucky you!>
I will say that I am not even sure that I should add any more fish, but if I could...
<I think you could, but need to consider what would be appropriate.>
Current possibilities include: Red spot cardinal (Apogon parvulus), Threadfin cardinal (Apogon leptacanthus), or Chalk bass (Serranus tortugarum).
<OK, I think all are viable choices.>
Redspots are my first choice, also (so far) the hardest to find. I would probably try to get about 7-10 of them if advisable, (and affordable).
<I'm not terribly familiar with these, but size is appropriate, will get to 4 cm/1.5 inches, and is nice that these fish will shoal.>
If I went with Threadfins, I would try about 5-7 depending on their size etc.. Would probably buy more to account for early "acclimation deaths", as this seems to be the case with a few folks that have kept them.
<Yes, one of the local clubs had a run on these fish. Best to introduce them at the same time. These fish do get little bigger, to 6 cm to 2.4 inches. They are a nice peaceful fish, will also shoal. I think 5 (survivors) would be good.>
I have recently seen some photos of chalk bass that seem to indicate that they get larger than I want, so I am a bit reluctant to add these.
<Also a pretty fish. Yes they are slightly bigger at 8 cm/ 3.1 inches, a small group might be ok, say maybe 3.>
Since I have never seen any of these fish other than in photos, so I am just guessing as to the number of these small fish I could add -- if any at all.
I think your choices are valid. Make sure you see them in person before purchasing. Sometimes pictures are deceiving. I would lean toward the lower ends of your ranges as final numbers, but understand that you may have some acclimation/shipping losses.>
Any input on these fish or alternatives to them is appreciated, Thank you.
<I like your ideas. Lots of potential for interesting displays and behaviors.>
<Good luck, drop a line and let us know what you end up doing. -Mich>
======
I have not been able to get any of the fish on my list,
<Surprising, though they are not super common I have seen both Threadfin cardinal (Apogon leptacanthus) and Chalk bass (Serranus tortugarum) at various LFS on the east coast (I saw Threadfins a while back for under $10 at a shop in NJ). I have seen both at That Fish Place in Pennsylvania. Did you ask you LFS if they could order these fish for you? Most can.>
and am considering the possibility of adding 1 (or possibly a trio of) small anthias, possibly Bartlett's. I am concerned that 3 would be pushing it, <Me too.> I would like your thoughts.
<As you have read, Anthias can be quite challenging to keep. They can be difficult to feed and should be fed frequently. Honestly, I like your original plan better...easier fish to keep, more likelihood for success, and interesting behavior.>
I feed pretty heavily with a variety of frozen foods due to all the LPSs in the tank, so if I find one that is eating he/they should have plenty to eat.
<Therein lies the challenge! I would not buy one unless I observed it eating.>
I have read the FAQ pages on the species, very interesting (and informative) stuff. Thanks for the good read!
<Excellent! Glad to hear. Mich>

Flame angel / Foxface compatibility...Caulerpa issues too 6/6/07
Hi WWM guys!
<Hello Dan!>
I've got a flame angel in quarantine, doing well.
<Cool.>
I'll soon add him to the main display (55 gallons, live rock, few corals, other fishes: two clowns, two pajama cardinals, watchman goby).
<Nearing full capacity.>
I'm wondering if you think a small Foxface could also get along well in there.
<Mmm...I would rather not, starting to get full.>
The reason I ask is that I've got something of a Caulerpa algae problem that I'd like to address by having something in there to eat it.
What do you think?
<It would have to be a very temporary addition. I would look into invertebrates (snail and such) if you want live herbivores but would also consider addressing nutrient issues. Manual removal is an option too.>
Thanks
<Welcome.>
Dan
<Adam J.>

Fan from Brazil, reef stkg.   5/23/07
Hello dear friends from Wet Web Media. My name is Léo, and I'm from Brazil.
<Hello Leo!>
You can't imagine how much I love your home page. I literally spend hours reading and learning from it every time I get a chance.
I've been waiting for a chance to ask you guys some questions about my salt water tank. I imagine that you are very busy so I didn't want to ask something that other people have already asked.
<Appreciate this/mucho gusto... Sorry, I know very little Portuguese/Brazilian>
I believe that what I'm sending now is some particularities of my aquarium that a really need clarification. Well let's just cut to the chase (Isn't that how you Americans say?).
<Some... some times>
My tank is reef set up with about 300 litters (about 80 Gallons) plus sump that works as a refugium to, with live sand, some macro algae and small copepods and other micro invertebrate living on it. I would love to tell you guys how much live rock a have but I just don't know because when a assembled this tank I was relatively new to the hobby and I just trust my LFS to sell me the amount necessary. I can say that occupies around 1/3 of the main display. My substrate is made of dead Halimeda skeletons.
I have this tank for about two years and a half and I have just 4 fish because I wanted to do things properly for them. I have a 1'' clown fish (Amphiprion ocellaris), a 2'' Gramma brasiliensis, a 1'' neon goby (Gobiosoma evelynae) and (that's the tricky part) a small Mandarin (Synchiropus splendidus). I also have some corallimorphs, and stone corals, 2 ophiuroids and a shrimp (Stenopus hispidus).
I consider myself now to be a reasonable informed aquarist and I can say with a certain degree of pride (not too much though) that I was able to maintain him (the Mandarin) for about a year and a half. He is living happy and is very active, although reclusive some times.
I want to add more fish so I was thinking of a banded shark, a moray Eel and three or four triggers……..hahaha just kidding…….
<Heeeee! Thank goodness!>
seriously now I want to put more fish but I don't want to overcrowd, that's the reason I am not considering a Tang (witch I would very much like to but lets face it: he would be cramped). My question is (finally huh?): Is there a chance that I could put some kind of wrasse without being a problem for my mandarin?
<Yes... there are many good choices in smaller, easier going (muy tranquillo, simpatico) species of Labrids that might go here>
Even if I fed the wrasse daily, would he still be foraging for live food on the rocks?
<Perhaps some...>
I always wanted a Cirrhilabrus solorensis, but when I read that it could be a problem with the mandarin it was to late.
<Actually... this entire genus would likely work out fine>
I will under no circumstances get rid of any of my fish. I prefer not to buy the wrasse.
If I had to give up the Cirrhilabrus I was thinking about a pair of Scissortail gobies (Ptereleotris evides) and a Percula True (Amphiprion percula) to pair with my ocellaris (I've heard of people doing it without any problem). Would my tank be at the limit then?
<Mmm, you could likely add a few more small fishes even then>
Or could I consider some
other fish? Perhaps adding 3 blue-green Chromis (Chromis viridis)? Or instead a fork tail blenny (Meiacanthus atrodorsalis)?
<Mmm, yes>
Maybe even a Panther Grouper (Cromileptes altivelis) (kidding again….. last time I promise).
Anyway thanks for all your help and keep up the good work.
<Thank you my/our friend. Bob Fenner>

Tang and Angelfish Compatibility    5/21/07
Hi, Great website just a few questions I have a 60 gallon tank 4 foot long  with plenty of live rock and some leather corals. I have a Vlamingii Tang, a Foxface, a Lemonpeel Angel. I would like to add a Coral Beauty and Caribbean Blue Tang if you don't recommend either of the two could you recommend some other fish.
<Unless your tank is very large more than one Tang and one Angelfish per tank is not recommended. Your Naso vlamingi according to fishbase.org has a maximum size in the wild of 23 inches. That fish needs a significantly larger tank. At least 100g is recommended for most Tangs and that Tang in particular would need 3 to 4 times that at least. This is why it is so important to research the needs of the animals one plans to keep before purchasing them.  You might want to consider trading him in for one of the smaller Tangs. As for other fish a Flame Hawkfish might be a nice addition. They are interesting and very brightly colored. Perhaps a Wrasse, one of the larger Blennies or a Filefish would be my choices. HTH, Leslie.>

Marine Compatibility 5/21/07
Hi,
<Hello>
Great website just a few questions I have a 60 gallon tank 4 foot long  with plenty of live rock and some leather corals. <Ok> I have 1x Vlamingii tang, <gets way too big for this tank, needs at least a 150.> 1x Foxface, 1x Lemonpeel angel. I would like to add a coral beauty and Caribbean blue tang if you don't recommend any of the two could you recommend some fish.
<All tangs are a no go in this sized tank in my opinion, especially the Vlamingii/Naso and the blue, each need very large tanks and lots of swimming room.  Combining Centropyge angels is also often problematic, as aggression is common.  If you are looking for color I would investigate some of the flasher wrasses, maybe a pair of clowns, or one of the hawkfish, many many possibilities.>
<Chris>

Hippo Tang Reef Safe, I think Not (- Says his Anecdote)   5/7/07
Hello again.
<Hi.>
This is more for your FAQ's readers than a question.
<Okay...>
I have a Trachyphyllia brain coral that wasn't opening for days.  I have had this coral for over a year (I think) and have never had any issue with it not opening, other than low alk.  So while writing on your forum I was watching the tank (next to the computer) and saw my small Hippo tang (2.5 inches)
<Mmm...not to get off track but in all honesty, I'm a frowner on the collection and purchase of this species at this size.>
going after it like it was algae, trying to rip chunks off.  Well needless to say that was the problem and it has been moved to another tank, it is expanding like normal since the move.  I have read before that tangs can and sometimes will eat open brain corals but I never thought a Hippo tang would be on the list.
<Thanks fo sharing.  While the experience here is anecdotal, and likely not a representation of how the species acts in general, it is still a good reminder on that 'ole salty cliché; "There are no guarantees." Animals aren't made in factories, they are individuals. Having said that typically when a captive animal exhibits strange predatory or feeding behaviors it is due to something lacking in the offered diet.>
Thanks, hope this comes in helpful to someone, Ryan.
<Thanks again for sharing. Adam Jackson.>

Advice requested, dead Ab, triage... deciding/moving newly arrived invert. lvstk. – 04/30/07
Dear Crew,
<Fites>
Several weeks ago, I mail ordered two Ocellaris clownfish, ten Cerith snails, two "bumble bee" snails, some Gracilaria and a small green abalone <Do make sure this last is a tropical species... most offered are not>
(mail ordered because we have no LFS except for the "chamber of death" that is PetCo).  I suppose that I am the pot calling the PetCo black though, because the abalone died the first night in the quarantine tank (or was dead after acclimation because he never moved from the spot where he was placed).
<... not atypical>
And, his rapid decomposition caused a measurable rise in nitrite (.1ppm).  I made an immediate and large water change (30%) using seasoned water, and then spent the rest of the week trying to keep the clownfish from dying, but to no avail.  These fish both had transparent white mucus on their bodies that would clear for a few hours after pH adjusted freshwater dips.  But, the mucus always returned.  Both of these poor fish ultimately died from gill damage as they clearly struggled for oxygen, and the mucus turned pink in the area of the gills the last day.  Then, nearly 24 hours apart, they slowed and rested on the bottom of the tank, listing from side to side.  In the final moments the large female dashed about the tank before giving up the ghost.  Awful to watch!  It was horrible and I felt helpless.
Before these gentle fish gilled their last, I removed all of the snails and the Gracilaria to a bucket aquarium.
<For browsers and your future use, I would not have quarantined the snails, algae if they looked, smelled okay...>
I have cleaned and soaked all of my tools, power-head, thermometer, heater, top, sponge filter etc. in bleach as I unable to be certain what indeed killed these clownfish.  The problem now is what should I do with the snails and the macro algae?
<Place them in your main/display tank>
They are all happy and thriving in the bucket, but are needed in my main tank (I continue to slowly lose hermits and small snails to the last remaining mantis in my tank who so cleverly avoids capture).
<Bait this out... or soak its hiding rock in very salty water, club soda... per WWM...>
  Is there a way to salvage the snails and algae without introducing a deadly pathogen to the main tank?
<Yes... highly unlikely they harbour such>
Or, should I kill these creatures as quickly and painlessly as possible and then move on?
Thank you as always for your thoughts and assistance,
Brad in Basalt
<BobF, back in not-so-sunny S. Cal... till next weekend>

Removing Bio Balls and Fish selection  4/26/07
Hey guys, hope you all are doing well today.  
<Am, thank you!>
I'm a long time reader/researcher of WWM, but have always found the answers without having to submit a question.  
<They are there, for sure.>
I guess this is thanks to the many who have asked before me.  I have a quick question about removing Bio Balls from my setup.
I upgraded from a 29 gallon tank which had been running for 3 years with a hang on filter system and about 50 pounds of LR.  The new setup is a 125 gallon with 30 gallon sump.  I originally setup the 125g with a wet/dry with bio balls and (underrated) skimmer.  The 125g has now been setup for about 5-6 months.  I put all 50lbs of LR in with about 200lbs of rock that used to be live and had been sitting dry for a few years.  I also used the old filter foam for a few weeks to help seed the new tank.  I just ordered an Aqua C EV180 skimmer that should be here within a week.  The only problem is that I will not be able to raise it high enough in the stand (only have about 25 inches under tank) to have it sitting above the top of the sump.
This means that I will probably need to put it in the sump (unless you can think of another way).  Well, the wet/dry takes up too much of the sump to fit both it and the skimmer inside.  I have read numerous times that wet/dry is not needed with enough live rock in the tank.  My question is, given the tank info/stocking below, have I spread enough of the "live" to the older rocks in 6 months to be able to get rid of the bioballs?  
<Certainly. Keep in mind that there may be a short spike as the remaining bacteria works to compensate for the loss in population.>
I do know that they need to be removed slowly, but I don't want to remove them if I will not have enough filtration in the system.  By the way, I have already gone through the diatom and Cyano blooms associated with a new tank, and the hair algae is starting to recede (hopefully the new EV180 will help also).  Also, I am thinking about researching some corals to add possibly, please take a look at my fish stock and let me know if you see any obvious problems with going to a reef setup.  Sorry for the long question/explanation, and thank you in advance for you help.
<Let's take a look.>
Size: 125g FOWLR w/ dual overflow
PH: 8.2-8.3
Salinity: 1.023
Ammonia: 0
Nitrite: 0
Nitrate: <5ppm (0 after water changes)
Alk: 11.5
Calc: 400+/- a few
<Don't try too hard to maintain this number. In fact, feel free to let is dwindle to 350-375>
Phosphate: 0
Temp: 78-79
Fish:
Hippo Tang (6")
Singapore Angel (3-4") <Nice pick. One of the smaller angels.>
Damsel - Neoglyphidodon Oxyodon, not sure of the common name (4") <That's the "jewel damsel" to most (and a big one at that). Do you google?
Snowflake eel (15") <Hmm, an oddball. Is this a centerpiece, I wonder? Keep in mind that any moray will limit your future species by virtue of it's messy eating habits and subsequent pollution of the water.>
All extremely healthy with good colors/active/eat well
<Looks good to me, as a whole. I would thoroughly research any future additions and keep them smaller than 4" and not very numerous. You are close to the end of my comfort level here.>
Thanks again
Scott
<Glad to help!
-GrahamT>

Stocking List for Reef Tank, Acanthurus Questions  4/26/07
Hello WWM Crew,
<Hello.>
I would like to start off by saying that your site is a great resource, and to thank you for the time and effort you have put into providing the useful information; I have consulted it many times.
<Awesome.>
I am planning on a 135-gallon (6' long) reef set up, with primarily SPS corals.
<Neat.>
I am in the process of selecting my livestock in a advance of even purchasing the aquarium, so that I can avoid incompatibility issues with fish and make sure all of their needs are met.
<Very good.>
I'm planning on it being, however the stocking list finally turns out, a peaceful community set-up. It will most like include a pair of leopard wrasse, <A tough species, dietary needs are hard to meet at times, do take an in-depth look at this one.>
a small harem of flasher or fairy wrasse,
<Careful with how many and exactly what type of wrasse you add here...there could be territorial issues.>
a scooter blenny,
<This animal is actually a dragonet and I would not keep one with so many competitors in the tank.>
a shrimp / prawn goby pair, a neon goby, and a pair of venustus angelfish.
<Only if you can attain a pair. which aren't easy to come by.>
I was also considering a powder blue or achilles tang as a single larger fish, which would be added as the last fish after the tank is well established. It would be the only tang in the aquarium.
My question was - first, if the size of the aquarium would be adequate for either of the tangs mentioned,
<As long as the aquascape is done in such a way that it provides good surface area/swimming room then yes, but just one.>
and second, if they would be too aggressive for a tank largely dedicated to smaller, peaceful fish.
<The animals you mentioned should be small enough and inhabit different areas of the tank...should be out of the tangs radar so to speak.>
I know that the powder blue (and achilles) can be quite aggressive to congeners,
<Correct.>
but would they ignore completely unrelated fish such as the wrasse and others? ... Or would they be too intimidating in the competition for food and space?
<Usually not one extreme or the other, somewhere in-between.>
Thanks for your comments and your time,
<Be sure to read up on both of these Acanthurus species, both are notoriously difficult and commonly have crypt/ich...and are picky eaters as well.>
Chris
<Adam J.>

Stocking Questions (Fish/Macroalgae) - 04/12/07
120g marine reef running for a little over a year, 100 lbs. live rock, 30 gallon sump, Outer Orbit metal halide lighting, skimmer,
various pumps to circulate water.
<<Ok>>
Do 10% water change weekly with pre-mixed water and aerate and store my top off water before I add to the tank as well.
<<Very good>>
Do not have an RO/DI yet, but will soon so of course I have some nuisance algae.
<<"Some" algae is not a "bad" thing in my opinion.  And I'm sure you are aware...unfiltered source water is not always the only "source" of nuisance algae problems (and in some cases may not even be a contributor).  Pre-filtering the water should help, but is no "sure cure" for nuisance algae issues>>
All water parameters are good (pH, dKH, nitrites, phosphates, calcium, ammonia, SG).
<<Subjective evaluations...what is "good?">>
Nitrates fluctuate between 0 and 10 ppm and I test weekly and track everything in an excel chart so I can make graphs.
<<Ah, yes...in my opinion reef aquariums appreciate/need a bit of nitrate (3-5 ppm)>>
Feed a variety of foods, supplement with some calcium if necessary.
<<Be careful is using calcium chloride solely as the chloride ions will buildup over time and can skew your water chemistry and making achieving a "balance" difficult>>
Currently have 2 chromis, 1 clown, 2 peppermint shrimp, 1 mandarin goby (almost a year old),
<<Excellent to hear>>
1 scooter blenny, 1  yellow tang, 1 bi-color Pseudochromis, 1 flaming scallop (also almost a year old and almost 2x original size when I got it),
<<Hmm, a rarity...are you doing anything special re this scallop?>>
1 crocea clam, yellow polyp, a couple of zoos, colt coral, torch coral, cup coral, star polyp, clove polyp, a few various mushrooms, various snails who are constantly laying eggs and just a few crabs, various worms and little creatures and recently quit a few varieties of sponges popping up here and there.
<<Ahh...must be feeding some small particulate foods (in the "micron" range) and/or the "pack juice" from your frozen foods...might explain your success with the scallop...>>
I also have some Caulerpa racemosa.
<<Mmm...do keep an eye on this...very invasive...and as/more noxious than any organism in your system>>
I would like to get a large show fish – what would you recommend?
<<Hee, I love spending other folks money!  Hmm, let's see...well, considering this is a reef system...how about a nice male Xanthichthys auromarginatus or Blue-Throat Trigger?  Or, for about four times the money a male Xanthichthys mento or Crosshatch Trigger?  Either one would make a great "show fish" (I have X. auromarginatus in my system).  Most everyone finds triggerfish interesting (shape/size/manner of locomotion)...and they are quite intelligent/display a good bit of personality.  Check'em out and see what you think>>
Also, I absolutely love the six-line wrasse but am concerned about the competition of the food supply for the mandarin if I get the wrasse.
<<Me too>>
I do not have a refugium.  Would it be a mistake to get the wrasse?
<<In my opinion, yes.  Not only will it "out-compete" the mandarin for its prey food, but these little guys are real terrors toward fishes of like/smaller size...despite being the "friendliest" of the Pseudocheilinus species>>
I would also like to add more types of algae but not sure what I should do.  The racemosa is growing very fast – about 1.5 inches a day.
<<Indeed>>
I’ve had it for about a month and am now wondering if I should pull it out and replace it with something not so invasive.
<<Better now...while you can>>
What would you recommend here?
<<Hmm...something NOT in the Caulerpa family.  You could try some Gracilaria...though likely the tang/other herbivores will keep it pruned short.  But really mate, if you want a macroalgae for nutrient control a refugium is your best option for housing it.  Regards Eric Russell>>

Compatibility, reef... 4/12/07
Hello crew,
<Hi Craig>
I can't thank you enough for all of your help. Against my better judgment, I made some major changes to my tanks and everything worked out excellent.  I am going to give you a run down quick of each.  The first tank is a 55 Gallon reef.  It houses several leathers, mushrooms, Zoa's, and Green Star Polyps.  For fish it has 2 Perc Clowns, 1 Banggai Cardinal,1 Orchid Dotty Back, 1 Pygmy Angel, A yellow Watchman Goby and his shrimp, 3 Blue/Green Reef Chromis , 1 Serpent Star, 2 cleaner shrimp and some Nassarius Snails.  I think that because of the small size of the occupants this should work for the lives of all of my fish.  Do you agree?
<Would not add any more fish to this.>
I also have a 75 Gallon tank with a Yellow Tang, Dwarf Zebra Lion,  Lawn Mower Blenny, 3 Serpent Star's, and a handful of Nassarius Snails.  I would like to add something to the tank to bring out some excitement and can't figure out what would work.  My ideas are a couple Wimple Butterfly's, A Niger Trigger
<This Heniochus would work well, but would not include the trigger.  Just does not fit in with the group.>
( will upgrade when the need arises), do you have any other recommendations for an active fish that I could add with the Lion?
<Many colorful wrasses available as long as you have at least a three inch sand bed for them to burrow in.>
I also want to add an Arc Eye Hawk at some point.
<OK here too as long as no small shrimp are present.>
Any advice would be appreciated.
<Search/read on animals you may be interested in.  Make sure the compatibility/requirements are there.>  
Thank you for everything, Im a better fish keeper because of you.
<Glad to hear and you're welcome.  James (Salty Dog)>
Craig

Stocking, 100 gal reef Too Much?   4/1/07
Dear Crew
<Dan.>
Once again I come to you guys for advice I really trust.
<Thank you.>
I have a 100 gal (6' x 18" x 20") reef that has been running for about 3 months that I upgraded from a 75 gal. So far the inhabitants include:
7 blue-green chromis
1 Talbot's damsel
1 pinstripe wrasse
2 saddleback clowns
1 Indian sailfin tang (currently 4" - will take appropriate steps when he/she gets bigger)
<Awesome.>
1 valentini puffer
<Can get nippy with smaller fish and invertebrates, keep an eye out.>
1 bicolor blenny
along with 10 assorted leather and LPS corals and 2 BTAs.
<Careful with mixing the anemones and sessile invertebrates. Could  have bad interactions down the line.>
my filtration includes a 30 gal DIY sump with refugium and AKS skimmer. I also have a Sfiligoi superflite chiller and 400 W of power compact lighting.
<If you have a way of measuring your PAR rating be sure to do it regularly, PC's run hot and burn out rather quickly in comparison to other types of lighting.>
So far so good.
In quarantine I also have 2 golden wrasses and a long-nosed Hawkfish.
<Careful, you're getting towards the "heavily" stocked side.>
I have ambitions to add 2 dwarf angels (a flame and a coral beauty) following discussions on how to achieve this with Brandon.
<Is still a risk (with cnidaria life and each other), and you have a lot of fish as it is.>
However, while the tank looks pretty empty as all these fish are small, on paper it looks like a lot.
<Yes...and they will grow.>
It's really hard to get good advice, and while the people at my LFS assure me my tank is understocked (hmmm I wonder why)
<I wonder?>
I wanted to get your opinion.
<Well it's there.>
Is this load (with the two dwarf angels) sustainable?
<Short term...perhaps, but long term, I think not.>
Or should I consider moving out others to make way for them - say some of the chromis?
<If your preference is for other animals, then yes remove some you already have...personal choice.>>
Dan in Sydney, Australia
<Adam in California.>