about to get a harlequin tusk

[schoolreefer]

What do I need to know? I really want to do well with him! I have a 120, with good live rock, and no other fish yet. The tank has just finished cycling. What do I need to know!!! Thanks!

 

[stunreefer]

Wonderfull fish, one of my favs, but they'll eat small fish and inverts. Full grown this fish gets big, and will probably require a larger aquarium.

Also, I would wait longer until you know your system is stable and can handle fish, rather than right after its cycled. You wont have a problem with most fish adding them first and the Harlequin later, but you might be restricted if you add the Harlequin first as they can get a lil attiitude (and generally run the tank).

I've kept several specimens and I must say that the ones from Australia have incredible coloration.

 

[Aqua Keepers]

Min tank size?

 

[stunreefer]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13325315#post13325315 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by pito
Min tank size?

Personally I believe they need a 180 (the 6' run being crucial) as they'll swim back n forth very much like a tang does. Most of their "Min Tank Size" shown online is the biggest crock of **** ever, but then again most "Min Tank Sizes" are. I had a 4" one in a 500 gal., look-down SW pond, and the footprint was 8'x4'. the tusk would cruise around the whole thing doing laps around the PB tang I kept with it.

Heres a decent article on them: http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/mar2003/Fish.htm

They say at least 36" long tank and 60 gallons.....IMO/IME double that. Im sure many would agree, but of course to each their own.

 

[DamnPepShrimp]

HAHA 36" 60g!??? They are crazy! I'd say minimum 125g. Has to be a 6ft tank.

 

[schoolreefer]

for the record... it will be an only fish

 

[secrest]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13331564#post13331564 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by schoolreefer
for the record... it will be an only fish

lol how many times have we said this? Your amongst friends, your wife/girlfriend can't see this.

Seriously, good luck though. They are amazing fish and I agree they do need a lot of room to swim around. Just make sure to cover the tank. My first one went carpet surfing.

 

[secrest]

I hate double posts