concern with re-aquascaping

[mxmarks]

Ive had a huge algae problem, and its finally almost under control. I want to take the rocks out, and scrub them with a toothbrush (in a bin of tank water, obviously). I need to make more "open space" for my tang, as right now my rocks really do create a lot of barriers.

My main concern though is disturbing homes of my fish, and crushing/trapping snails, hermits and shrimp.

How concerned should I be? Are the inverts able to manuver out from under a rock if I place it on them?

I'm inspired by the other 're-aquascape' post on this thread, and would like to take my tank from a less "rock wall" look, and create a central area of caves, with plenty of space in front and on the sides for the tang to swim. Thanks very much.

 

[mindytoy]

pics

 

[HappySkittles]

just watch out where you place the rock
if you have any nassarius snails i would feed the tank a little food first so the snails come up and you can see em. if anything is in your way just shoo it

i think your fish will find new homes again when they get used to the new set up. this will just be a sort of hurricane for them

and if you're really worried maybe place them in a bucket of tank water till you are done organizing

 

[crvz]

I don't think theres a lot of concern, keep a watch on the shells when replacing the rocks but otherwise you'll not be bothering too much. folks do it all the time.

 

[nycreef]

Re aquascaping is a good thing. just making things better and removing unwanted garbage from the rocks.
good luck