Need Feedback On Fish For 46g Semi-Newbie Tank

[webdizzy]

I'm trying to decide on a fish stocking plan once my new 46g setup is ready. I don't want anything too aggressive, they must be reef safe, and I prefer no jumpers. I'd like some feedback on these fish in terms of their compatibility and quantity, which I should drop if too many, AND in what order I should add them.

1 Midas Blenny
3-5 Green Chromis
1-2 Ocellaris Clown(s)
1 Flame Angel (or other dwarf angel)
1 Melanurus Wrasse (or other wrasse)

Other suggestions for additions to this list are welcome.

Thanks!

[Ruskin]

I like clowns in pairs. You can observe some great behaviour between the two that way. I'm not a fan of Chromis as, IMO, they tend to just kill each other off in aquariums. I guess they just never make it into groups large enough to curb the aggression for long. But other have success so that again is only my opinion.

Any wrasse that's reef save is a good idea as there so much fun to watch dart around the tank. Be warned though, most wrasses, especially fairies will jump on you so a tight lid is usually recommended.

Fwiw, a book I have enjoyed owning over the last few years of my reef keeping has been
Marine Fishes by Scott Michael, it has all sorts of info including compatibility and hardiness of most available aquarium fish. You may find it useful too!

[webdizzy]

Originally Posted by Ruskin

I like clowns in pairs. You can observe some great behaviour between the two that way.

I am leaning towards a pair. I just don't have enough tank for everything I'd like so was thinking about getting just one to make room for soemthign else.[/QUOTE]

Originally Posted by Ruskin

I'm not a fan of Chromis as, IMO, they tend to just kill each other off in aquariums. I guess they just never make it into groups large enough to curb the aggression for long. But other have success so that again is only my opinion.

Maybe I'll try just one, and try to get a good sized one.

Originally Posted by Ruskin

Any wrasse that's reef save is a good idea as there so much fun to watch dart around the tank. Be warned though, most wrasses, especially fairies will jump on you so a tight lid is usually recommended.

I'm wondering if an egg crate cover would keep a wrasse from jumping to its death? I do have a glass canopy, but haven't wanted to use it.

[Fireworm]

Egg crate always worked for me.

[Stumped]

Originally Posted by webdizzy

I prefer no jumpers.

1 Midas Blenny

I have a Midas blenny, but in a covered tank and he jumps (or at least would if he could) all the time. A lot of his time is spent in his hole, but when he starts to swim he'll often move quickly enough that his momentum causes him to splash around at the top of the tank and presumably get some decent air because I can hear him 'plop' back into the water. FWIW he's not harrassed at all by any other fish, and he's the largest/most 'aggressive' (not to say he actually is) fish in the tank.

Based on my experience I'd never consider getting one unless the tank is covered. I'd honestly say he's much, much worse than the Helfrich's firefish (which are notorious jumpers and also in the same tank as him), in terms of a jumping risk.

Also whatever you decide on keeping in the tank, add the Flame Angel last. They get territorial and in a 46g they'd very likely end up harrassing anything you tried to add after them.