Choosing a Reef-Safe Butterfly - 07/28/06 Hello again, <<Morning Elliot>> At Sabrina's request I am re-sending this inquiry from a different email address in hopes that others from the crew can access it.  Thank you, Elliot <<I shall try to help.  EricR>> -----Original Message----- Sent: Friday, July 14, 2006 1:32 PM Subject: Pyramid, Copperband , or Golden (Semilarvatus) B/F for Reef? Greetings WWM Crew, My dilemma is a matter of choice, the great denominator of this hobby. <<Indeed>> I am trying to decide which if any of these 3 B/F choices to put in my 265 gal. tank.  I have read as much as I have been able to get to on the matter --- the WWM articles, other internet-sourced articles, a number of aquarium publication articles, etc.  I know there are no guarantees. <<Mmm, yes...is important to understand this>> I know individuals of species vary. (Indeed, I have kept a small black-backed B/F for 2 years in a 110 gallon tank with lots of live rock, mushrooms, a few soft corals and lots of small sabellid fan worms without any problems).  But I value your opinions and would like your thoughts. <<Cool!  I'm happy to share my thoughts, experiences>> My 265 gallon has about 250 lbs of live rock, a few mushroom corals, hermit crabs, 4 soft corals (hammer, finger leather, Starpolyps, tree coral), a 1-1/2 inch live sand bed, lots of small sabellid fan worms, and the following fish: 1 med. purple tang, 1 flame angel, 1 Valenciennea puellaris, and 3 Lyretail anthias. My plans are to add a few more reef-friendly fish and a few more corals, but only soft corals, as my lighting (600 watts of compact fluorescents) dictates. <<Sounds good>> I am considering adding one B/F to the 265 gallon.  My LFS got in a 4" Copperband which, hooray, is eating everything, especially mysis, like a pig. <<Is a very hardy species once acclimated/feeding>> The LFS also got in a 3" Golden, which I am keeping an eye on. <<Ah yes, Chaetodon semilarvatus...an exquisite fish!  My tank (375g) is a Fiji biotope else I would have some of these, but if I ever go Red Sea!...>> And I have seen almost everyplace but in the WWM article that Pyramids are considered "reef-safe". <<Seems to be highly variable yes...with the "brown" being less safe than the "yellow">> I am not all that concerned for the mushrooms and soft corals, but unlike others who have written to WWM, I truly like the fan worms, and that is my biggest concern. <<Uh-oh...that eliminates the Copperband for sure...and likely the other (any) butterfly species as well>> So here's my question:  how would you rank these 3 choices as a potential addition to my tank, keeping in mind my preference for keeping the fan worms around? <<First-choice the Golden, second-choice the Pyramid...wouldn't even consider the Copperband re your fan worms, though this fish is likely the "most reef-safe" of the three re your corals>> And also, would I need to anticipate gradually replacing my live rock if any of these 3 B/F's were added to the tank (due to the B/F's picking over the critters on/in the rock)? <<I would, yes...and is a good idea/practice in general for the overall continued good health of your tank as doing so also replenished depleted earth/mineral and microbial elements too>> As always, thanks for you consideration and input, Elliot <<Is a pleasure to assist.  Regards, Eric Russell>>

I'm a new reefer hi, I just ordered your book and cant wait to get it. <Know you'll enjoy, benefit> The purpose of this email is to ask you a question.   You being a "Big Dog" <Woof> I feel kind of silly asking you this but I am trying to stock my tank and I think if I were only to get one persons opinion I would want yours.  You come highly recommended among your peers.  <What exactly was it that P.T. Barnum gets most quoted for...?) If you don't feel the need to answer this I will not take offense I know you are busy but I figured if you had a minute maybe you could give me a hand.  here are my tank specs:  20G Long 30 in to be exact and 13in high and equipment is a penguin 660 ph and a penguin 150 BioWheel.......and obviously a heater and a thermometer.....I use RO water now its been about a month since I did my last tap water usage.........I have a cc bed right now.....I have about 15 lbs of ltr. and am buying another 8-10 soon. current inhab.s are as follows (as well as complimentary corals on their way) 2 tomato clownfish both pretty small one is border line medium......a 1in blue damsel and a blue velvet damsel. I think that is all the fish I will be having. <Good idea... will be a bit psychologically crowded>I would have liked a different fish w/ more color.....maybe I'll get a tiny goby later on......<and likely new, larger tank/system>.also, I have a tennis ball sized hitchhiker giant Condy anem. I have 2 Hawaiian hermits*I think that's what kind they are called* a midget blue legged hermit also I'm iffy on the name of this guy. and my latest addition were 3 turbo snails. From two of my good buddies who shall remain nameless unless they feel the need to let everyone know how great of guys they are  I am getting a couple stalks of xenia and several different kind of mushrooms. I am running 2X55w. pc's 12hrs a day 1blue and 1 white. for the 4hrs I am home I add an additional strip light its just a 20w. fluo.'. and in the am and pm I run blue only for a dusk and dawn kinda thing. now if you could please help me decide what to put in here. right now all I know I want for sure are a cleaner shrimp and a green goddess *echinoderm but its not an echinoderm* the echinoderm will be hard to find but I may just have to order it some time. I may be switching to a play sand bed if my cash flow gets moving upwards pretty soon.. but just for the sake of argument tell me what I can do w/ this set up. I mainly want coral and invert suggestions. i.e. specific shrimps, crazy stuff like echinoderms that wont eat coral, corals, anything active that will not mind being seen the majority of the day.... I hate stuff that is hiding 23 of the 24 hrs. of the day. I am totally open to suggestions......the anem wont be a problem he hasn't moved in nearly 1.5mnth. so I think he found a good spot and now both of the tomato's want him.........please I would greatly appreciate your help.....I know its mostly personal preference but frankly I like everything. I'd really appreciate a hand. thank you for your time Respectfully yours Jon <Do make a big pot of java or whatever akin to this "most widely abused psychoactive drug" that you prefer, if any, and go directly (do not pass Go...) to our fab website:   Home Page and read the two survey pieces stowed there on selection of livestock for marine, reef systems... and follow the internal links to so much more... and do keep good personal notes... Be chatting, Bob "Chihuahua boy" Fenner>

Gorgonian ID Key, Stocking Query Dear crew! We are dealing with the animal husbandry and we've a lot of problems. Recently we purchased two unidentified gorgon Arians . The first one forms a bushy red colony with white polyps & thorn-like cups,25 cm tall. The second one is a tree-like brown colony with blue polyps 15 cm. tall. We assume that they are Muriceopsis flavida & Eunicea succinea, but we are far from to be sure. Could you send an identification key? <Mmm, no. Don't have. There are some in-print reference works (e.g. Alderslade et al.), but no such on-line source as far as I'm aware> Both they were in the quarantine about 2 month. Now they are melting, Their polyps are closed, & in the second species the tips of branches are shrinking. May this be a melting consequence? <Yes... I proscribe the keeping of just a few species for the trade, for sale... these are described, listed on WetWebMedia.com> Could you also inform us about the hydrochemistry, in particular, Ca, Sr, Mg and the with the other Cnidaria. <Posted on WWM> P. s. What do your think about the following livestock: 1 Euphyllia glabrescens (diameter (d)=10 cm), 1 Sinularia sp. (25 cm tall), 3 specimens of Alcyonium sp.(50 cm tall), 1 Galaxea sp. (d=5 cm.), 1 spherical colony of Goniopora (d=15 cm), <Am not a fan of the aquarium use of this genus> 1 colony of Cladiella sp. (25 cm. tall), 4 specimens of Sarcophyton sp.(2x20, 15 & 10 cm),2 specimens of Lobophyton sp. (25 & 20 cm tall)& 2 colonies of the gorgon Arians mentioned in 250 gal aquarium (assuming that all the other factors are normal one)? <Could, can be done, given space between all. Bob Fenner> Best regards, Interzoo. Stocking Up A Reef Tank  I have 2 separate questions that I have been unable to find a specific  answers to.  first my setup:  55 gallon FOWLR  Emperor 400  2 MaxiJet 900 powerheads  a Coralife 250 watt PC light  a Seaclone 100 protein skimmer ( modified from info posted the chat forum from this site, works very well now)  40-50 lb live rock  a refugium with live rock for pods and other assorted creatures  Ammonia=0  nitrites= 0  nitrates=10  pH=8.1  salinity=1.023  I have had freshwater aquariums for over 20 years and marine aquariums  for 15. I have recently had a 2 year hiatus from marine and have had this current set-up for 6 months now. It seems that there is a lot more info (Thanks to WWM) than there was even 2 years ago and my pockets are a little deeper now, so it is easier to do it right.  <Easier, yes- but those deeper pockets tend to empty quicker...Why is that?>  Fish:  1 Royal Gramma  3 Green Chromis  2 Ocellaris Clowns  1 Scooter Blenny ( who eats Formula one from a pipette and looks fat and happy)  1 cleaner shrimp  various snails, hermits and other live rock hitchhikers  1) First, am I maxed out on fish, or is it feasible and healthy for the  current occupants to get another fish, such as a Yellow Wrasse or a Coral Beauty?  <Well, I'd consider either of these fish as possibilities. However, my thinking is that you'd be best just picking one of 'em.>  I definitely don't want to overcrowd and going by the 1/2 inch of fish per gallon rule, I still have room even when the fish are fully grown, but I am leery of that rule because it is too vague in that different fish have different needs, and I don't want fatalities for any reason, especially through preventable means.  <Yep- you're thinking correctly here. The "inch per gallon" rule is really not the best way to determine acceptable bioloads. For example, if you're convinced that your 48 inch long aquarium can accommodate 12 inches of fish, does that mean that it's acceptable to add a 12" Panther Grouper to your tank? Not!>  2) I would like to slowly start adding a few soft corals or other inverts of the coral or anemone variety, ( I have heard anemones are not easy). Is my lighting going to be enough?  <Anemones really need to be kept in a dedicated species system. Not really well suited or a mixed reef tank. And yes, they do require lots of lighting (halide is my preferred method).  And I have never had anything other than FOWLR, what are some good beginner corals and inverts and how do I acclimate them if I go this route?  <Wow- a really broad question- far beyond the scope of this response...Much has been written throughout the WWM site, or in excellent books, such as Anthony Calfo's "Book of Coral Propagation" regarding the husbandry of different coral species. in general, however, I'd start with some of the more accommodating soft corals, such as Sarcophyton and Sinularia. However, even these hardy animals have their requirements, so attention to their needs is essential>  3)Last question: How do I calculate how much water current I need? Is  there a "formula"?  <Well, the recommended minimum flow for most corals is 10-20 turns of the tank capacity per hour. Different species require varying flow rates>  I seem to have good flow now, but is it too much for the fish? The Clowns seem to like it as they spend all day swimming against it or catching a ride by swimming into it and going with the flow. At first I thought it was too much current for them, but they seem to be intentionally going out of their way to get caught in it. Do fish and  inverts have similar current needs or wants? I can't see as I would need more as it seems to be pretty intense now, but I would like to be sure it is not too much or too little current to keep everyone happy.  <I doubt that it is too much flow. Unless a strong laminar flow is literally shooting the fish off the tank walls, it seems unlikely that you're looking at too much...>  Actually, one last question. In my live rock in a 1/2 inch hole I have a worm creature that only appears at night and I can only catch glimpses of it. I can't get a photo, but I will describe it as I can't find info on it, maybe it sounds familiar to you. It is opaque white and pretty thick around, like pencil diameter. I don't know how long it is, as I have never seen it come out completely. It has a bizarre mouth at the very end of it's body, similar to a hagfish ( which gives me the creeps to think about) and it looks like it has the rasps or a star- like ending to it's mouth, similar to a hagfish. I know this isn't a lot to go on, but maybe it rings a bell. It seems harmless as it hasn't bothered anything in the tank yet and never seems to leave it's hole. Any help would be appreciated.  <Gosh- ya got me on this one...Without a photo I'd simply be taking a wild guess...>  Thanks for your time, you guys are lifesavers and have helped me  tremendously in this hobby. I look forward everyday to my morning coffee and questions of the day on WWM.  Jean  <Glad to be here for you, Jean! Good luck! Regards, Scott F.>

Stocking Tank <<Greetings, JasonC here...>> First let me say great site! I appreciate the time you all spend to advance the hobby and clarify the myths. I am just starting out, first aquarium of any kind. I'm not one to start small so a goldfish in a glass bowl just wouldn't do. I have a 110 gal Oceanic reef ready show tank with a stand and hood I designed and built. I have an ecosystem filter with a little giant pump turning over my water about 6 times per hour. I also have 2 power heads on a wavemaker to provide additional in tank circulation. I have about 100 pounds of live rock (but a lot of it is Bali rock which seems deceptively light compared to the Fiji) from a well established tank. I have 40 lbs of aragonite substrate (about an inch or less). I am using 4' URI VHO lights 2 actinic, 2 actinic/white on separate icecap 660 ballasts so I can stager the on/off of each pair. I have had my tank up and running for about 3 weeks now. The only things in it so far are about 25 mushrooms that came with the live rock, some small feather dusters also on the rock, a few small things that appear to be the start of some kind of corals, other misc. critters that have crawled out of the rock, and a butt load (highly technical terminology not to be used by the novice) of Aiptasia. I also have a small sergeant major damsel that someone was going to flush after using him to cycle their tank. I am ready to start adding stock to my tank. <<Are you? You have determined this with a test kit then, yes?>> I would like to get your opinion of the fish I plan to add and any recommendations for the order and interval at which they should be added. First I will add some creatures like peppermint shrimp (hopefully to take care of the Aiptasia), coral banded shrimp, cleaner shrimp, snails, brittle star, hermit crabs, etc. <<You can do all that, hold the hermit crabs. These are fun to watch but too opportunistic a feeder to warrant a place in your system.>> I want about 6 of some type of schooling fish, I was thinking about green Chromis (open to other suggestions) <<there are other Chromis...>>, a maroon clown w/yellow stripe <<these have a pretty wide mean streak.>>, yellow tang, red sea Sailfin tang (hair and bubble algae) <<two tangs in the same tank, especially two with similar shapes will be bad for one of the two, the Desjardinii gets pretty big - like dinner plate big.>>, flame hawkfish, maybe a royal Gramma, after the tank is well established I would like to add a powder blue tang, <<three tangs? I wouldn't do this in a 110.>> and once it is really well established a psychedelic fish. <<You need more substrate to house the food sources for this fish. Many years of 'establishment' would not be enough with only 1" of substrate.>> Does this seem like a reasonable amount of fish? <<reasonable, yes.>> Too many? <<well, those second and third tangs... I would perhaps just get one of those, and at that the one that will stay the smallest, be easiest to keep [read as: not the Desjardinii or the Powder Blue].>> Room for a few more? <<only smaller fish, and not many of them.>> Suggestions for additions? <<really depends on the type of system you are attempting to create - biotopic, species, mostly SPS, etc... Most all your good options are documented within the WetWebMedia site.>> I like the bright colored corals and would like to add some of the hardier hard and soft corals to start (any suggestions?) and eventually get a purple tip or bubble anemone as a host for the clown. <<I have two suggestions: first, you must upgrade your lighting if you want to keep SPS corals, although the lighting you have will permit several of the softies and there are also some LPS which do well in lower-intensity lighting. Second, for a good starter coral, I think a Sarcophyton sp. is a good choice - one of the leather corals - not terribly demanding.>> I will see how things go and add more (and more difficult) corals as appropriate.  So far I have relied upon the advise of my local fish store owner, who has been more than willing to answer all of my questions and point me down the right road. <<Ahh good.>> I hope that everyone has as valuable a resource available locally as I do. It is not uncommon to see him tell someone that he will not sell them a particular species of coral of fish, because he knows it will not do well in their tank and then take the time to explain why. <<Glad to hear it.>> I appreciate as many educated opinions as I can get. Any insight you can give from your perspective will be much appreciated. Please be critical you won't hurt my feelings. <<While you are thinking about stocking your tank, also stock up your book collection - here's a good place to pick titles from: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/MarInd1of6.htm >> Thank you, Jeremy <<Cheers, J -- >>

Tank capacity sorry about the previous e-mail I forgot one fish I also have a green bird wrasse 6 inch hello Bob All my fish are doing well so far, but I just wanted to know if you think my tank has too many fish in it. I have a 125 gallon tank, 6 feet long. I have: Naso Tang 6 inch Eyestiped Tang (Dussumieri) 4-5 inch Sailfin Tang 3-4 inch Purple Tang 3 inch Foxface 5-6 inch Blue-dot Naso Tang 3 inch Nigger Trigger 4-5 inch Picasso Trigger 2-3 inch White-tail Trigger 3-4 inch White-spotted Puffer 4 inch Canthigaster janthinoptera, Honeycomb Toby 2-3 inch Angler 3-4 inch Snowflake Eel 10-11 inch Lion Volitans 3-4 inch Harlequin Tusk 3-4 inch Green Bird Wrasse 6 inch <Yes, you are way overstocked.> They don't really fight, but it seems that some fishes get bitten by the Honeycomb Toby or the Picasso Trigger. <I would describe that as fighting.> They have like a round bite on their fins? Do you thing I will encounter problem with my tank? <I am surprised you have not already.> Maybe I could transfer fish into my other tank. I also have a 77 gallon 4 foot long that I'm planning to do a reef. I have 3 clowns; Clarkii 2 inch one Yellow Tang 3-4 inch long Chocolate Tang (looks like Kole tang but no yellow eye) 3 inch with around 75-85 pound of live rock Thank you <No extra room in the reef tank and few of the fish in the larger tank are reef friendly. -Steven Pro>

Reef tanks and Angels...the last word! Dear Mr. Bob and Co., <Howdy> Time and time again I find myself needing your expertise....alas here in need again. I have read the articles and Q & A sections regarding "Angelfishes". Although it is clear that you do not recommend any large Angel in a reef set-up, and have steered us toward the pygmies, you guys have stopped short of saying "no way." To my understanding, each species and even individual fish for that matter, will decide on its own whether to taste that Acropora or LPS; and this has much to do with feeding frequency, tank mates, tank size, as well as personality. <Well-stated... Wish I had written thus!> I have had great success in the past at keeping a single Majestic Angel (Navarchus) in a 90 gal reef and have met disaster in the same tank with one C. Argi. Now I have a 135 gallon reef tank that is calling out for a show piece Angel and perhaps a second angel that will be much smaller...Of all the angels of the larger species including Pomacanthus, Euxiphipops, and Holacanthus; what single Angel fish would you put inside this tank if you had to decide blindly. Ill make it even easier...give me your top three. My inverts are mainly Acroporas and clams, plus 2 saddle carpets. <Okay... Pomacanthus annularis, Genicanthus species of any kind you like, Chaetodontoplus mesoleucus... my choices. Bob Fenner> Sincerely, Dennis

Reef Tank Stocking Happy Holidays Jason C. Sorry it has taken me so long to respond to both you and Bobs response. I appreciate your input, as I am a new aquarists. I have revised my wish list-but in reading your response you said it would be better if I could magically make my system twice as large. <<well, it was a very grand list you produced. Your Fox-face and the tangs are "growers" - they get much larger than your current facilities. If you put all these fish in a 72, it would be very crowded. If you had a 150, the fish would be less crowded, everyone would be happier, including you.>> I do not wish to overload my system, I want all my buddies to be happy. <<and you haven't yet, you just need to consider carefully your next steps>> Please help me out with that comment-if I need to lesson my wish list, etc. <<my interpretation of Bob's response: pick only one tang OR forget the tangs and place everything else slowly.>> Also could u help me with the stocking order. <<what kind of help were you suggesting?>> One more thing I would like some kind of sand sifting star, what would u suggest? <<go through the WWM pages, forum - many, many things written there.>> Thank you, Lori <<you are quite welcome. Cheers, J -- >>

Stocking a New Reef Tank Hi, Jason, <<hello!>> I'm about to start stocking my first reef tank which is finally cycled as is the QT tank) <<ahh, good thinking!>> : it's a 46 with 70 # LR, an Eheim 2026, CPR BakPak, 192 watts of PC lighting, and some snails and hermit crabs. I plan to have mostly soft corals, maybe some LPS, and as many fish as I can and still be "under stocked!". I love clownfish; my absolute favorite is the gold striped maroon, but I realize they're more aggressive than my second favorite, the false Percula. I was thinking of a pair of clowns, a Banggai, possibly a flame angel too big?), possibly a longnose hawk, maybe a neon goby and/or Firefish. <<I would have stopped at the flame angel, but you could put the goby OR Firefish with likely little impact - I have a 54 reef, it has four fish. Back to your fish, though... that hawkfish isn't exactly "reef-friendly", it will be a big fan of worms, shrimp, etc. but perhaps you are prepared for that. Either way, if you want to under stock - four, maybe five.>> But, from my reading and browsing forums, I'm wondering if the maroons are too aggressive for that crowd? <<quite possibly, you might want to consider rearranging the mix.>> If so, would you have any suggestions for a few fish that could hold their own better in a tank my size? <<that is the question isn't it. Aggression is bad, but can dissolve if there is enough space to get away, hide, etc. I wouldn't try to build an aggressive tank of that size.>> Also I may want to try an anemone (much later), and my understanding is that the bubble tip is the best for beginners and also happens to be the best match for maroons, so that's a reason to go with the maroons. <<again, space may be an issue.>> Whichever type of clown I end up with, I plan to get a pair of tank-raised small ones and hope they at least get along (whether or not they mate). I've rolled a bunch of questions into one....I'd appreciate any suggestions ...oh, just one more: I think I saw somewhere on your site that it's best not to give clownfish any dips freshwater/Meth. blue, etc), but I can't find it now. Is that true? <<On the page http://www.wetwebmedia.com/dipfaqs.htm - I've found a 10 min max clown dip with m-blue. Give that page an eyeball. Don't forget the pH adjustment.>> Thanks very much for your time/ideas! <<You are welcome. Cheers, J -- >>

Coral additions in mini reef tank Good Afternoon, <Salute, amico> Hope all is well.  <reasonably so.. I've resisted the KFC today, but may have to give in to the dark side... sugar raised donuts. Thanks for asking> Today's question is about the addition of corals to my reef tank. (Wouldn't be a reef tank w/out corals, right?)  <you could have a "Jersey Shore" reef display without corals but plastic, garbage and used needles sticking out of the sand instead. Just a thought> Right now I've got a 25 gal. tank with 20 lbs. of nicely cured live rock, clean up crew, Banggai Cardinal, Pseudochromis, Flame Angel, and Yellow Watchman Goby. All fish are doing great, feeding, cohabitating, etc. The Flame Rules the tank, though, probably due to his size.  <really the size of the tank, my friend, but a good strong fish indeed> Anyway, besides one wonderful trumpet coral that came on the live rock (which is showing great color and life), I am without any corals. My question is really two-fold, and I hope you don't mind ... 1) Which corals are best/hardy for me to begin with? <definitely octocorals (soft) or Zoantharians (mushrooms and button polyps). Avoid most all stony corals at this point> 2) Is adding corals similar to adding fish as far as waiting 2 weeks between each addition to compensate for ammonia/nitrate/nitrate increases?  <nope... quite the contrary...they are living filters that reduce/consume much and are light on the bio-load in such regards> I love bubble corals and open brains, but want to do this right, so if those are not great beginner corals, I will consider other options.  <thank you... please do. While it is true that the two corals you mention are hardy with regard for water quality, as scleractinians they are delicate with regard for physical handling (or mishandling as is common with beginners). And more importantly... they grow very large and cannot be pruned: Either could outgrow your tank in 2-3 years and give you horrible complications from their aggression against tank mates I the interim. You need sift corals that you can control more easily and will take more abuse. Be careful too about buying colorful soft corals that need intense light (yellow or green leathers for example). Trust me and get only soft corals and reef invertebrates.> My water quality is excellent, checked ever week. Thanks, <you are adding calcium and alkalinity daily as needed and testing a couple of times monthly? Very important for a beginner learning the ropes. Kindly, Anthony Calfo> Ari

Re: mail order fish Hey Bob, I received the fish I spoke of earlier. It's a juvenile emperor angel. Again problems! I acclimated to the tank as described by the company. However, it has been about 6 hours now and it is not looking good. The fish is breathing heavily and laying kind of slanted like in the corner of the tank. Is there anything I can do to help this fish?? <Add aeration, Methylene blue to the water> Needless to say, I think my mail order fish days are over. It is a terrible waste of such a beautiful creature. Thanks again! JJ <Time to seek other suppliers. There are some that are highly regarded. Bob Fenner>

Re: update on emperor Hey Bob, I tried what you told me and it seemed to help, but the little guy was dead this morning. Thanks for your help and quick response nonetheless! JJ <Do contact the sender, relate what happened, your efforts. This may contribute to a reduction of losses in future. Bob Fenner>

Saltwater Bob Any books out there on shrimp, cucumbers, starfish etc. and how they will or will not fit in a reef tank? <A few... Nilsen and Fossa's "Modern Coral Reef Aquariums", Delbeek and Sprung's tomes on "Reef Aquariums", John Tullock's "Natural Reef Aquariums"...> Also recently found a jet black "something" which has antenna, is about the size of a silver dollar except more oval. I thought it was algae at first until it started to move. It is very flat to the rock and kind of flows over it. Any ideas on what it is or where I might look to find out? <Likely some type of flatworm. See our site: http://wetwebmedia.com/flatworms.htm> Also have root like growth on live rock with little upside down umbrellas on the ends. Are these okay to keep? <Read over the WWM site> Finally have a white rubbery growth on bottom of one of by larger live rocks. What is this? Hopefully not too many questions. Thanks Rick <Keep studying my curious friend. Bob Fenner>

Re: Advice needed (reef livestock selection) Good morning again, Mr. Fenner! Thank you very much for yesterday's reply. I have to honestly say that I was surprised; didn't think I would get a reply so soon. Thanks again. <Have to respond quickly, lest I get buried... and folks lose stock> Yes, I had considered the heat aspect. I just, inadvertently, forgot to mention that my set up does in fact, include a 1/4 chiller. Thanks for the commentary regarding it, though. <Ah!> I am also aware of the fact that if I were to stick with the proposed list of fishes, not much fish life will be seen, except perhaps, the clowns and the Flame Angel. And that is my last question, what other fishes should I introduce in the tank that might solve this? <Perhaps a few "dither fish", like some small Chromis damsel species... their being out will "inspire" the other fishes to be more outgoing/coming> I looked into several books, yesterday evening. I thought about Anthias but, I rather wait until I have more experience, plus, they need to be fed more times that I can manage. <This is wise. Do look into the "Marine" and "Reef Selection" articles posted on our site: www.WetWebMedia.com and the numerous survey pieces posted there in turn> Later, I thought about a yellow tang but, I have to confess that Tangs are not my favorite, with the exceptions of Zebrasoma Rostratum (Black Tang) and the Ctenochaetus Strigosus (Kole's Tang). In addition, I believe that any of these two would be unsuitable due to their size and the size of my tank. <The latter, yes... but a Ctenochaetus... would likely go and do much to improve your system functionally and esthetically> So, finally, I was thinking of a school of Chromis Viridis, perhaps 5 of them. I know Chromis Viridis do not have the best reputation in terms of immediate acclimation since a lot of hobbyists have reported sudden deaths right after first introduction but, what else?  <Oh! Actually, this species does okay... once a system is stable... if procured in initially good health> I don't like wrasses, don't like large fishes and definitely, do not want to play with my little gobies or darts' lives by introducing a predator, such as an eel or a Pterois volitans. <Certainly not these> If it is not too much to ask of you, could you give me a bit of a hand with some suggestions? I promise I will not bother again. :) <Hmm, never a bother my friend. But this list is quite long... Do read through the citations above starting with: http://wetwebmedia.com/reeflvst.htm and ask for the opinions on stocking here from the fine folks that make up our chatforum: http://talk.wetwebfotos.com/> Thank you. Mary. <Be chatting. Bob Fenner>

Reef Stocking - tank limitations II 10/6/04 Thanks for the reply. What you have told is what I have feared. I keep looking at fish that I can't have. <we all suffer this temptation, my friend. But no worries... its best as you know to simply admire those fish we can't have from afar, rather than have them suffer in less than ideal conditions> I guess I should have gotten a bigger tank that's FO. <no worries here either. You will always be limited no matter what tank size you have. Simply accept whatever size tank you have and work within the constraints of it... there are so many wonderful fishes to choose from in all shapes, sizes, colors... you can easily find something to fit your sized tank> I would really love to have a majestic or regal angel but my tank isn't big enough. <moreover... these species are not hardy or appropriate for mixed fish community tanks> Well, maybe in the future. I really want to get one other fish. I was thinking, dare I say a coral beauty. <an excellent choice... quite good really: hardy, well-behaved, etc> Others could be a flame, pygmy cherub or Flameback. <pygmy cherubs are also very hardy, but this fish as well as the flame and Flameback are all rather risky with invertebrates, Indeed not as reef safe as the CB angel> Wrasses I was looking at are a painted fairy, possum, six line or golden cleaner. <do avoid the cleaner.. you surely know why> I would like the fish to go in and out of the caves that I made. I was thinking a royal Gramma but they don't come out much, I believe. <quite secretive yes... they really like empty conch shells> Which of these could work or? I know the angels are 50-50 and I won't blame you if something where to go wrong. <actually, the coral beauty is really an excellent fish> I forgot to say I have a large open brain too. <no biggie... a hairy coral as long as you feed it regularly... else it will starve to death in a year or so> What would be the min. light for the BTA if I where to put him in my old 30g long? <100 watt double ended MH would be perfect and long lasting> I'm very dedicated to keep a mandarin. I did read one article that they will eat mysis. <eat, yes... survive long term... a different story. This is a common misconception with folks wishfully thinking that their Pinnatus batfish or Myers butterfly eating brine shrimp are actually going to survive> What I did do is put half the copepods that I bought and put them in a 20g long with a air pump to move the water around. I feed the tanks all three twice a day. I bought copepod feed. Every few days I run a net around the 20g and put the copepods in the 25g fug. I was told that copepods only live 14 days. If I need to buy more I will. <ah, good> I knew the LFS was trying to steer me in the wrong direction. But the employee was telling me he had a purple tang in a 40g. <shameful long-term> Thank ya, Billy <best regards, Anthony>

Advice needed (Marine Stocking) Good morning Mr. Fenner, <Howdy... trying to wake up still> My name is Mary. In some months from now I will starting my first reef tank. I have spent the last two years keeping FW tanks and reading an immense amount of material (articles, internet forums, books... your included) plus, have exchanged info with some experienced hobbyists world wide. Because of all that, I fell quite confident regarding what am I supposed to do when the time comes. <Sounds great! Wish everyone was so "into it" as to make such commitment, application...> However, I am having some doubts regarding the choice of fishes for my tank. But first, let me tell you a bit about my proposed system. It will be a 90g AGA tank. It will run with a complete skimmer-sump-refugium-ca reactor system made for me by Lifereef. Light will be supplied by an Aqualine-Buschke Aquaspacelight fixture with 2 250W 10K HQI double ended, and 2 24W PC Actinics. I might later supplement with some VHO's. Water motion will be created by 2 3/4 Sea Swirls. I do plan to keep corals although not so many as to create a wall-looking thing. Don't enjoy that cluttered look. Emphasis will be placed on SPS. <All sounds good... you may have a "waste heat" issue with the lighting.> The fishes that I would like to keep are the following: Green Clown Goby (Gobiodon Rivulatus) 1 Citron Goby (Gobiodon Citrinus) 1 Neon Goby (Gobiosoma Oceanops) 1 Read Headed Neon Goby (Elacatinus Puncticulatus) 1 Firefish (Nemateleotris Magnifica) 1 Barnacle Blennies 1-3 Mated Pair of Percula Clowns Flame Angel (Centropyge Loricula) 1 QUESTION: Will all these fishes get along in a 90g tank with an open rock structure and not many corals? <They should, yes. The two Gobiodons might tussle when they see each other at first... and you may find that you would like to have another Firefish... and that other than the Clowns, that there isn't much in the way of fish life in view at any given moment...> Thanks you very much Mr. Fenner. Sincerely, Mary Gomez. <You're very welcome my friend. Bob Fenner>

Livestock Selection Mr. Fenner, I've enjoyed reading all the advice you give on the FAQ's posted on wetwebmedia.  <I hope as much as I have.> My parents and I have a 100 gallon reef aquarium with lots of live rock and some corals. Included are an algae blenny, two percula clowns with a large carpet anemone, two green Chromis, a small regal tang, a mandarin, and a Dottyback (orange with purple stripe down its back...not sure of its common name).  <See the pseudochromid pix on the WWM site> The tank's been established for 8 months, and all the fish are healthy and seem to get along...only the Dottyback shows some aggressive behavior now and then. We used to have a red/white striped hawkfish that had become dominant and made new additions impossible (killed two Banggai cardinals and a third percula as well as constant harassment of the blenny and the Chromis), but we trapped him and sold him. Anyway, I was wondering if you have any suggestions of what other types of fish we can add to our aquarium (if any), hopefully to add more variety (possibly a goby?).  <Gobies, Gobioids would be fine... as long as different than the Algae Blenny, not using the same space as the Dottyback... For a show fish for this system, I would look into one of the hardier Dwarf Angels of the genus Centropyge... and likely another Tang... either a Zebrasoma or Ctenochaetus species... there are many, many other possibilities... Perhaps a long read through the WWM site.> We hope to add just a couple more fish, but the fact that we have corals limits much of the selection. Thanks for your help! Chris Pua <I understand. You're welcome my friend. Bob Fenner>

Painting acrylic tank/stocking list Hi Bob, First off, thanks again for all of your help. It still amazes me that you would set aside so much of your personal time to help all of us out.  <You're welcome, and it/this is "my life"... amongst my daily agenda (sorry to only a small extent for this digression/explanation, but want to be clear with you and others: In my day to day experience I try to "accomplish" five things: 1) something to improve my mind. 2) something to make a little money (this IS an exchange economy) 3) something for exercise. 4) something to stay on good terms with others. 5) something to improve the planet. "This" venue grants me four of the five, somedays all five (as in when lifting fish tanks!)> Well, I have three questions: 1) I wanted to paint the back of my acrylic tank black. Have you had any experiences with rollers/spray paints? Your recommendations? <Yes, use water-based latex. Apply with a small roller. Tape the sides, edges to discount spills> 2) FFE has Walt Smith Fiji LR and Na Moli <you mean Hapai?> LR. Have you seen these? Is one better than the other? How about half of each? <Do know of these. Both are good. Mixing them would be fine> 3) Once the LR cures, would the following stocking plan be ok for a 36"x30"x20" tank with 20gal sump with sand/LR/Caulerpa (maybe plenum???), Eheim pump for return, Knop skimmer, 2 Rio 800 for circulation, 90lbs LR, 2" sand bed, 200watts PC, hopefully with some mushrooms and soft corals: <Okay so far> 10-20 snails, 3-4 hermit crabs, 2 Lysmata amboinensis, 2 Lysmata wurdemanni <A bit crowded for two species of Lysmata...> 1 V. puellaris 1 O. aurifrons (with 4" sand bed in one corner of tank for him) 1 P. hexataenia 1 N. magnifica <Nemateleotris? Best kept in pairs... for much larger systems, groups> 1 A. frenatus 1 A. percula <Would just go with one species of Amphiprion> 1 Z. flavescens 1 A. japonicus (Scott Michael's "Marine Fish" noted that A. Nigricans was better?) <I hope not on the latter reference... nope, I see in my copy on p.377 he does state this! Incredible, and I suspect this to be a simple error... I am of the exact opposite opinion... At any length, no to either in this size system... just go with the Zebrasoma listed, or sub a small Ctenochaetus for it> 1 C. loricula <This tank will be full... as in no more fishes> Would this stocking list be ok for my current setup? I would add small specimens, spaced 2-3 weeks apart, in the order listed (after 2 wk quarantine, AFTER tank cycles course). If so, is this about the max, or would I be able to add a smaller fish or two in the future?  <No mas> I realize the tangs might need a little more room once they get bigger, but was hoping you'd think it was ok. <One tang, solamente uno> Again, thanks for all of your help and advice, and sorry about the length of the email. After months of reading and researching, it's pretty exciting to move past the planning phase!  <I'll say! And no worries> I'm building the stand and canopy now, and am waiting for the tank. Thanks again! <Be chatting my friend. Bob Fenner>

Re: painting acrylic tank/stocking list Hi again Bob, Thanks for the quick reply. How did we ever survive before the internet? <Good question... thought just today of a "skit" I would do about this... "messenger comes running up", "Genghis, this just in for you"..."Mongol throws spear from horse top position through bearer of news foot, "stay right there"... scene goes to pony express, on to Western Union ofc... to USPO (snail with grey eyes, sailor tattoo on shell)... then the NET!> :-) Too bad about not being able to keep both species of Lysmata. I was hoping both would be ok in the 100gal tank; one to hopefully combat any possible Aiptasia outbreaks and the other to help against ich. <Would wait on the wurdemanni till the Glass anemones show> Since I can keep only one, in your opinion, which would be more "useful"?  <The Pacifics> Also, regarding the firefish. I just wanted to make sure regarding your response... that a pair of firefish would not be "happy" my system?  <Yes... I'd place these and skip the Jawfish, or skip these in place of a couple of Opistognathus... one pair/couple or the other> Thanks again Bob, your guidance really is invaluable. No matter how many books/websites I read through, nothing beats "talking" to an expert. <Expert? Previously married and flow under pressure? Bob Fenner>

Selection of new fish Greetings... <Hello there> From reading over your FAQs and just about EVERY article on WWM, I'm a bit confused as to what fish to add to my 100G tank.  <A very confusing area... no simple yes/no formula that will fit on several pages...> I know you don't like to make choices for people, but please assist me in my selection options. <In the final synthesis each must decide for themself... I will tell you what I would do given limited variables> As a reminder, my setup consists of: 5' 100G FOWLR+LS 100lbs LR, 40lbs LS 40G sump TF1000 in sump Caulerpa in refugium Maybe a plenum in the sump if nitrates rise, currently at zero <They will, and this is a good choice...> Family of fish in the aquarium are: 1" Picasso Trigger 1.5" Flame Angel 2.5" Valentini Puffer 1" Maroon Clown 3" Black Spot "Japanese" Angel <Keep your eyes on that trigger> I want to add a final "larger fish" (large meaning 4"-5") and become increasingly frustrated after reading over your site because every fish that I "like" seems like it's not compatible. If needed, I could easily part with the maroon clown and/or the Blackspot angel... well, as easily as I could capture them that is. <Not that difficult> Clown Trigger - I wanted one, but you've discouraged me in a past email and I will heed your advice. <This is well> Naso Tang - Found a very healthy 5" Naso at my LFS today, but worried about growth and behavior/compatibility. Would love to get this fish. <Then do so... I give you and it a high "enough" score of likely compatibility... hmm, a good sixty percent...> Sohal Tang - Read your article on "best tang" and would love to try on your recommendation. What size is minimum to start? Would you recommend this species for me? <I'd get the Naso first... but a four incher (about as small as they're imported) would be best> Blue Jaw Trigger - Maybe a 3" of this relatively "peaceful" species of trigger? Picasso will bother later? <Possibly, but a good/better choice than other trigger species... will you be getting a larger tank?> Purple Tang - After reading your article on WWM, this species may work. Is this correct? <Yes, a very good choice> Green Chromis - My last resort would be adding I a microschool of 3-5 green Chromis. But this is so boring in my opinion. <Then don't do it> It is so hard to resist the temptation to overstock.  <You've said a tankful, make that a mouthful!> LFS people usually, say "it should work", but that's not good enough. I know it's always going to be a gamble because we're dealing with individual fish here, but I'd just feel horrible if I put in a fish and cause another to perish as a result. Thanks for your help. <Time for you to come out snorkeling, diving on a trip... see how these animals do, live in the wild... and recharge your "batteries"... Bob Fenner, on the way out to do just that>

Opinions on Marine Livestock E-tailers Hi Bob, Thanks so much for your advice; it really is very giving of you to donate your time like this. <A pleasure and honor my friend> One follow-up question to my tank-starting efforts (i have a 60 gallon, 90 lbs. LR). I've finished the cycling stage and have a tank that's beginning to get overgrown with algae (mostly brown on the LR, back of tank, and even sand). I keep reading that you're not the biggest fan of hermits and snails as cleanup. Given your reasoning, I'd tend to agree. My questions are: can I introduce a midas blenny and a tang (purple or Kole) already?  <A Salarias, Atrosalarias or other Blenny would be better than an Ecsenius spp.... and yes if the tank has completely cycled> will they be sufficient in cleaning the algae?  <Likely so> what about the algae on the back walls of the tank?  <I'd leave it be...> should i get a couple of snails for those? <If you'd like> what about the algae on the sand? can i get a sand-sifter starfish to get rid of the algae on the sand? A couple of Cerith snails perhaps? <Yes to all possibilities... you will find your fishes, regular maintenance and mainly just time going by, succession will "take care" of most of this.> Lastly, I checked out The Marine Center (linked from you wetwebmedia page). They seem to stress the fact that they have net caught fish (mostly). <Yes, a fine company, very high standards, ideals> Is ffexpress the same?  <Don't know about FFE's actual practices... they are mainly a "selection service", going out to other businesses (marine livestock wholesalers in LA) and shipping out what they gather from them> Would you say there's a difference in quality between the two?  <Don't know enough to say really. Both seem to get high marks from hobbyist/customers... judging from listserv et al. inputs... Marine Center does seem to focus more on the "upper end", rarer livestock.> I understand if you'd rather not answer such questions, but thought I'd ask anyway. <Don't mind answering any/all queries... with what little I either know or "have heard/read" second or more hand...> Thanks! Javier <You're welcome my friend. Thank you for your insightful questions. Bob Fenner>

Questions? Hi, First off I wanted to thank you for recommending good books to read. I am 2/3's done with Natural Reef Aquariums by John H. Tullock. I have ordered Dr. Burgess Atlas of Marine Aquarium Fishes. I was wondering why you haven't recommended your book? From what I have read on faq's it sounds like an excellent book.  <It is my friend... many good, talented friends helped to make it so... seems immodest to "blow ones own horn".> I will be ordering your book next because anyone who loves his field/hobby as much as you must have excellent insight.  <Ahh> I have a couple questions. First of all, I was wondering what size tank you recommend? 75-90-120.  <"The bigger the better"> I would like to slowly create a reef tank. Do you have any insight on my plans for filtration system?  <All sorts... depending on livestock, tastes, budget, your desires... Please see the "Components" part of filtration and "Set-up" sections of our website: www.WetWebMedia.com here> I would like to have a Monaco style, with the layers of sand at the bottom, creating anoxic water at the bottom. I would then like to have a sump below my tank. It would hold a protein skimmer, live rock, and 2 heaters inside. Does this should like a good idea? <Yes> I have also heard that with a sump you can keep alive "feeder" species ex.. shrimp. I would like to have plenty of live food in my reef. Would the protein skimmer take them out? <Not necessarily> I was very interested in the Mandarinfish -Synchiropus splendidus. I no longer want this fish. Too beautiful, I'll let mine stay in the ocean. I will also highly discourage people I talk to from getting one. But back to my tank again - I would like to have: (Just a rough sketch right now - not too set - still gathering info) 4-8 blue green Chromis Shrimp Cleaners - snails - crabs - sand sifters - etc Plenty of live rock Coral - totally undecided on this. I like bubble Clownfish - anemone Here is the problem. I was considering a regal tang and a powder blue tang. From what I have read these two will pester each other but much less for example than 2 Regals or 2 powders. I have read that you discourage Powder blues. I was wondering why? <Very susceptible to disease... too easily lost in too small, too new systems... a notable cause of loss of hobbyists in my estimation...> I have become mesmerized with its beauty. It would be a great fish just to watch, to me a very relaxing fish with its coloration. I know shipping is a huge help, if done well, to the fish's health. <You are correct> Any comments or recommendations you have would be greatly appreciated. Once again thanks for your time. Much appreciative, Mason M. <Please read about Acanthurus leucosternon also on the WWM site. Bob Fenner>

Mandarin Gobies and Pinnatus (sp?) Batfish I've related my story in past emails but in short am making a redux after a 14 year absence from the hobby. In my first incarnation as an aquarist, I made some hideous mistakes [never bought one of those batfish], but did learn quite a bit in the process. Never the less, there was an absolute vacuum of real information about keeping marine fish. <A few influences here... one, the dominance of the publishing biz such as it was, by TFH... thank goodness for the internet> Only two stores where I lived in Tampa at the time, and one was a bulk-type place and the other marine-only. Even the specialty store had only people with their own experiences as hobbyists/fish appreciators, but no ichthyologists and no practical advice on who could live with who in a tank. On a side note, the specialty store was also odd in that it was a little clique-ish: they wouldn't really give you the time of day unless you could bring in a "perfect" water specimen and then they knew your were cool. So they gladly let me buy whatever I thought looked neat, and several friends of mine did too. Granted, I did have my share of successes, but it feels like that was the stone-age compared to now-a-days, or at least bronze-age: I've just installed an Aqua C EV-150 on my 75 and just wonder how I ever had anything live through my older tank without one. <Friends of ours... Jason Kim, Aqua-C are literally around the corner...> Now as a re-beginner [read as open-minded] with a lot of "old-world" experience, I'm really enjoying the access to the type of information you make available on your site. Most especially when it comes to "keep-ability" of the various species and their tank mates. My mom gave me a mandarin goby for that old tank and wouldn't you know it, the thing up and died; starved to death. I felt awful because I just couldn't feed it. 14 years later, after much research on WWM, there it is in on the page... although live sand wasn't even an option back then, I doubt if that would have made any difference. An unfitting ending for a beautiful fish. <Yes> Regardless, I'm really just saying keep up the good work [please]. You deserve a medal of honor for bold acceptance and answering what I am sure is a veritable flood of email - thank you for your efforts. You are a Gentleman and a scholar, as they say... <Thank you my friend. Your kind words of encouragement mean much. Bob Fenner> Cheers. J --

What should I add next? I have some concerns on what fish to add to my tank It is 55 gallon i have 40 lbs of live rock, a tomato clown and a Condylactis anemone. All is well so far but we would like to add more to the aquarium. I'm reading about mandarins? They seem to be difficult. We have lots of pods. I think that the food supply is there but I'm still not sure. Are there other fish that will eat the pods that are easier to keep and that get along with my tomato and anemone? We want to go slow I am trying to learn as much as I can before my next purchase. Thank for taking the time to read my question. Bet Barnard <Do agree with the "slow go" approach, and your caution. There are many other fishes that will likely eat the types, sizes of crustaceans you mention. There are some "tougher" types of Mandarins/Psychedelic Gobies/Dragonets that would likely do okay in your system... "Scooters" like morrisoni and ocellatus... You can see pix, descriptions of them on the wetwebmedia.com site/article... But Grammas, some of the more peaceful pseudochromids and wrasses, the smaller basses (like the Hamlets), hawkfishes... read on. Bob Fenner>

Question regarding my choices for starter marine fish group Dear Mr. Fenner, First of all I am writing to thank you for writing your book, The Conscientious Marine Aquarist. I have read it cover to cover and will use it constantly as my "bible" in order to set up and maintain a healthy tank. As your book suggested I have made my equipment list and I am now working on my fish list. I am going to buy a quarantine 10 gallon tank this weekend and all of the necessary components in order to ease into the hobby. I am going to use this tank to go through the entire cycling process etc and get used to maintaining a few damsels in it for awhile before I buy my display tank. For my display tank I am eventually going to purchase a 55 gallon acrylic tank and a wet dry filter with power compact lighting (I may go fish and invertebrate someday once I'm a lot more experienced). It is going to be strictly a fish only system as I am just a beginner. I have read your book about which fish are good aquarium fish and I've made a tentative list. My criteria was color/beauty of the fish and they had to be "easy" to "moderate" fish to maintain. I am curious as to your opinion on my choices. I want to have enough fish for a nice variety but not too many fish. Let me know what you think of my choices and if they should be introduced into the tank in any particular order: 1. 1-2 Ocellaris Clownfish 2. 1 Blue Hippo Tang 3. 1 Flame Angel Fish 4. 1 Banggai Cardinalfish I appreciate your web site and attention to my question. Sincerely, Lynne Koltookian >> Thank you for writing, and your kind, encouraging words re my writing efforts. Your approach sounds well-grounded, and your stocking list fine. Would like to add the following: do seek out a tank-bred and reared Clownfish (realize you are likely aware that these are much hardier), and do look for a Flame Angel from the Marshall Islands (some other sources are poor as of this writing). These may be introduced in whatever order for dominance reasons, but I would place the Angel last (to allow your system to "age" a bit). Lastly, my offer to you (and all) of our website: Home Page , where I have stored most all articles, book sections and a few thousand images... as well as FAQs and a few other features... ongoing. Be well, Your friend in fish, Bob Fenner

I have been doing freshwater now for about 5 years and am thinking of adding a marine aquarium to the collection. It will be either a 45 or 55 gallon. I am not as familiar with marine as I am with freshwater as far as compatibility, hardiness, color, or general behavior. What would you suggest as far as fish/inverts for a beginner? >> >> Take a big breath... there's a bunch of choices... much more than freshwater numbers and diversity-wise. I strongly suggest taking your time putting your assortment(s) together. Get, read all you can stand, talk with other marine hobbyists. Maybe take a look at the Marine "Selection" book sections, and many survey articles on marine livestock groups I have posted here: Home Page  We'll be chatting, Bob Fenner

That was pretty funny. My livestock launching themselves out of the tank. My 4 remaining fish are in a hospital tank. I don't think there are too many inverts capable of this feat :).  <Not too funny... and you'd be very surprised...> I really need to do some thinking about a fish restock plan when the time comes. I could use some guidance as far as what "would be desirable to have", as opposed to what would I like to have. Mind if I pass my wish list by you when I make one? <Not at all... and do take a look at the Selection pieces, reef and general marine, Fishwatcher's guide postings, and many survey articles with my opinions re suitability, historical survivability archived at the URL: www.wetwebmedia.com Bob "self help master, out of dire need" Fenner>

Hi Bob,  first of all, let me say that I really appreciate your Q&A and ffexpress. I have a 75g tank, 130gal system reef going on for a while ( 1year and so ) and I have some questions: My tank inhabitants are ( fish ) 1 domino damsel ( some ppl say that they are very aggressive, mine is here from the beginning, never seen arising any fish ) ,1 Salarias fasciatus. I had a yellow zebrasoma that was 1  year of age, died with unknown reasons. I'm adding a Flame Angel and a Yellow Zebrasoma OR a Zebrasoma Xanthurum. with the Salarias in the tank, can I add another Salarias ? will they fight ?  <No fighting, but I would just stick with the one... two may starve.> can I add a Valenciennea to stir the bottom ? wont the Salarias fight with the Valenciennea ? <No fighting... different feeding/food strategies...but do you have enough for a Valenciennea Goby to eat? Lots of live sand organisms?> I have a couple of Lysmata cleaner shrimps.. will the flame angel bother them ? <Not at all> will be 1 zebrasoma flavescens, 1 centropyge loricus, 1 hepatus, the  Salarias and the domino damsel overcrowding a 75 gal tank ?  <No> I have a LOT of hiding places... Can I had a brittle star ?  <I wouldn't> I'm afraid the bristle eat the shrimps .. I have a Linckia blue starfish, it spends all day behind the  rock.. I tried to move it once to the front glass, it crawled again to behind the rock.. I'm afraid that it starved, how can I feed it ? Thanks, and sorry for so many questions :) <Don't pull it out... and don't overcrowd the tank with detritivores and it will be fine, Bob Fenner>

Problem with reef  i have a problem i have lost a flower pot coral a anchor coral and a maxima  clam i have lost them all within 24 hours of introducing them to my tank i  have been able to keep brain corals mushrooms Condylactis anemone button  polyps and fish i have a 30g reef with 192watts of VHO SeaClone protein  skimmer 201 aqua clear power head emperor 280 filter the temp is 77  alk 2.2 ph 8.6 nitrate .3  nitrate 30 ppm i can't find my ammonia test kit  what kind of info can you give me any info will be greatly appreciated i just  want to find out what I'm doing wrong  thanks  David >> Well... the Goniopora/Flower Pot Coral is likely at one of the roots of your difficulties... a "bad" though popular species that does poorly in captivity... and in its passing took your clam and even anchor (Euphyllia ancora) coral with it... The 30 is too small for a Maxima Clam... and your protein skimmer is insufficient for a real reef set-up... couldn't keep up with the lost Goniopora... I would save up and get a larger system for your desired livestock mix... Bob Fenner

I have a question I have a 55 gal tank. I have had the tank for about 3 weeks or so and have some damsels, crab, and yellow tang in the tank. I was thinking about trying live Fiji rock and live sand and corals. Is it hard to do? I am planning when my tank finishes cycling i was going to get a flame scallop, lawnmower blenny, some sponges, and maybe some soft corals. the fish i would like to get will be coral beauty, flame angel, longnose butterfly, batfish, royal Gramma. should i have any problems with what i am planning to do. >> You're on the brink of great self-discovery and fun... but let me get in my two cents first. Grading up to a "reef" type set-up from general marine is not "that" hard, in fact, these systems are more self-regulating (effects of the live rock, better lighting, filtration), but they do require a higher level of involvement and cost.  The live rock (the sand will just become live with the rock on top of it... for your first reef tank, go this dead to live sand route) is a very good idea even if you only have a few hardy invertebrates along with your fishes. I definitely would add the live rock (LR). Do you have sufficient light to support the photosynthetic organisms on/in the live rock? Adequate filtration/aeration/circulation to handle the greater, initially unstable bio-load? Let's investigate these criteria... talk over what you have, need, options. Now, as to the animals you mention. I would skip the Flame Scallop entirely... these filter feeders do very poorly in captivity, most dying, largely from starvation within a few weeks. Wait on the Lawnmower Blenny till you have some real algal growth. These animals almost exclusively feed on filamentous greens in the wild... and one per a 55 gallon tank is about all the live rock can support. Leave off with the Sponges at this point as well... they're better for a few months from now, when you have more experience. Besides, you will be getting a bunch of sponge material "for free" with your live rock... With good circumstances, they will continue to grow in your system. Do try some of the hardy soft corals... after the tank has become better established... maybe three months or so after placing the live rock. Leathers, polyps, maybe a pulsing coral, aka Xeniid. Only one of these Dwarf Angelfishes, either the Coral Beauty or the Flame, should be placed in this size/shape system. They will likely fight, be unhappy if crowded together. And do leave off with the Batfish... they're great animals, but not for small tanks (they get BIG, fast), especially small reef tanks... due to rambunctious natures and copious food/wastes.... Not to cool your enthusiasm too much here, or hence... Just want to help you start off on the "right fin". Bob Fenner

Hi Bob, We have a 55 gallon reef tank with 2 pajama cardinals, a schooling Chromis, and a mandarin goby. It has been running for a year and one half and has about 60 pounds of beautiful hard coral encrusted live rock from the Gulf. We would like to get a few colorful fish into our tank into our tank, but we are nervous about aggression towards our more passive fish (the Chromis, which will be leaving us soon, has gotten very aggressive as it has grown). What do you suggest? Are there any colorful fish that will leave our PJs and corals alone? Claude p.s. Your column is great >> There's a bunch! Have been working on a full length book titled: The Best Livestock for Your Reef Aquarium, the Fishes, for the last year or so, so am familiar with many families of marines to consider: For the bottom, there are several gobies (compatible with the Mandarin) and blennies, for the fifty five gallon limit some of the small basses (Hamlets, smaller dwarf Angels like the Cherub, Flameback...), a few Anthiines, some of the wrasses (esp. the flashers, Pseudocheilinus, striped, Paracheilinus, Cirrhilabrus...), maybe a Royal Gramma, smaller Jawfishes, maybe a peaceful generalist-feeding butterflyfish like the Heniochus (esp. H. acuminatus or H. diphreutes), a tank raised clownfish or two, one of the smaller species of hawkfishes, a Zebrasoma (Sailfin) or Ctenochaetus (Combtooth) tang...all these and many more will do. The more you look, the more there is to see. Bob Fenner

Small Marine Aquariums Book 1: Invertebrates, Algae New Print and eBook on Amazon: by Robert (Bob) Fenner	Small Marine Aquariums Book 2: Fishes New Print and eBook on Amazon: by Robert (Bob) Fenner	Small Marine Aquariums Book 3: Systems New Print and eBook on Amazon: by Robert (Bob) Fenner