Stocking The Tank

Heidi · 06-01-2001, 05:30 AM

We currently have 7 fish (all around 5cm (2") or smaller) in our tank, which is 250 litres (55 gallon). Books we have read suggest that reef tanks should have 2.5cm of fish for each 27 litres. Under that rule of thumb our tank is at maximum population. We also have a blue starfish and several brittle stars which have not been included in our calculations.
Does anybody have any other theories on populating an aquarium?

Doug1 · 06-01-2001, 09:56 AM

I shudder at such arbitrary rules as x amount of fish per volume, as there are several factors that go into the decision. SW fish are more territorial than their FW counterparts, so compatability and space are very important issues to address. FWIW I had a yellow tail damsel and royal gramma along with an argi angel(3") in my 55 and thought it was pretty well maxed. My focus was more on corals but I try to keep the fish load down to the point power loss is survivable for a while

TroyF · 06-02-2001, 07:33 PM

To add to what Doug said,
the type of fish you have in there is as important as what size they are and how many. You also have to look to their adult sizes. My preference is for a quiet peaceful tank. That usually means less fish.

Doug, how have your experiences with the pygmy angel gone? I had a C. potteri for about six months but noticed him picking at my T. maxima. I'd love to try again when I set up my new tank but am not sure.

[ 06-02-2001: Message edited by: Green Lantern ]

Doug1 · 06-02-2001, 08:37 PM

Troy unfortunatly the C argi as well as the gramma and damsel were powerhead fatalities when my old 55 leaked and **** near burnt the house down. But in the year plus I had it no problems arose, but then I dont have clams to temp it.MY tank now has a bi color blenny, a pair of pink skunk clowns and a sailfin tang. I might get another argi angel but will wait a while

TroyF · 06-03-2001, 02:01 AM

Sorry to hear that Doug. As for the angel and my tank, I want my cake and eat it too. Clams are just too beautiful to pass up and yet the C. potteri is my favourite fish. Of course tearing down half my reef to get the little fellow out wasn't much fun.

Alice · 06-03-2001, 03:08 AM

I've had a C. argi for about a year and a half and she's been very well behaved. Then again, I don't have clams, so....

TroyF · 06-04-2001, 01:10 AM

Alice that is positive. I may just have to rethink the clams.

[ 06-03-2001: Message edited by: Green Lantern ]