Helfrichi Firefish

[hkgar]

I could like to add this fish to my established tank. Please see my fish list in my signature line.

I understand these fish are rather timid and I am concerned that they may live in fear of some of the more aggressive fish in the tank (Tangs). All the existing fish get along with very little aggression. The Atlantic does like toperiodically make sure everyone understands he is the boss. Most of the time he (she) just wwims along with everyone else.

I would also like to add a Lyretail Anthisas at the same time.

Yest TTM and QT are in order before the DT

 

[Half Vaped]

I added a Helfrichi Firefish a few months ago to my Wrasse-dominated 150 G with three Tangs (Yellow, Powder Blue and Chevron) and a bunch of other smaller fish. I have around 30 fish in there, half of them Wrasses.

The first couple days, it was trying to find its "spot" and was getting bullied by my Orchid Dottyback, Spotcintus Clown and occasionally by some of the Wrasses. My Tangs ignored it, since they probably did not see it as a threat. It found its spot in the top part of one of my rock structures. It usually only comes out during feeding time, then goes back into hiding. I sometimes see it peeping out of the many holes in the rocks. I never see anybody picking on it after its initial hazing, but I guess it's still paranoid.

From your list, I think the Tangs, Angels, Clown and Fairy Wrasses could potentially bully it, depending on their individual temperament. I recommend using an acclimation box to introduce it into your DT to increase your chance of success.

 

[Half Vaped]

Also, I don't remember anyone picking on my Dispar Anthias when I added them, but they were very shy when first introduced. They hid in the rocks the first few days and started coming out more and more over a couple of weeks until they stayed out most of the day. I think Lyretails tend to be bolder, so they should be a little easier to add.

 

[hkgar]

Also, I don't remember anyone picking on my Dispar Anthias when I added them, but they were very shy when first introduced. They hid in the rocks the first few days and started coming out more and more over a couple of weeks until they stayed out most of the day. I think Lyretails tend to be bolder, so they should be a little easier to add.

How many Dispar do you have? I only want to add 1 Lyretail as for the concern they will kill each other off.

 

[Half Vaped]

How many Dispar do you have? I only want to add 1 Lyretail as for the concern they will kill each other off.

I have two since the summer after going through about a dozen; most died within a week or two of introduction. They're hardy once settled, but are tricky the first couple weeks. I went with Dispars specifically because they're peaceful and don't kill each other off.

Plus I got a female trio from Diver's Den yesterday in QT. This is my first shot with Anthias from DD. Two are eating so far, so I'm cautiously optimistic.

 

[Nandez13]

My tang and angels have never bothered my firefish. My wrasses and midas blenny on the other hand...

 

[xanthurum]

I have 2 helfrichi and in my experience they should fit in nicely. Might have some aggression from the wrasses but that's about it. Mine are always out in the middle of the tank right up front.

 

[hkgar]

I have 2 helfrichi and in my experience they should fit in nicely. Might have some aggression from the wrasses but that's about it. Mine are always out in the middle of the tank right up front.

How long have you had the two? Did they come as a bonded pair? How large is your tank?

 

[xanthurum]

I've had them for about 4 months now, maybe 5. No they were not a bonded pair I just ordered 2, I should have gotten 3 since a trio would be awesome. The tank is 175 gallon display with a very large sump and refugium. I've been thinking of getting a 3rd for a few months and don't think there would be an issue. They are very similar to the other firefish in that aggression is minimal and are very easy to adapt to tank living.