Is there anyway possible to keep 2 different kinds of clownfish?

[steri]

Here is my situation. I have had a 75 reef for about 5 years. Recently I moved and inherited a 210 gallon tank that had 2 tomato clowns in it. In my 75 reef I had 1 Occ. Clown that is hosting an RBTA.

While I have been in the process of moving, my friend has babysat my 75 reef for me, but it is time to start combining systems, and this is my biggest potential problem regarding compatability (in my mind).

I know I have heard that mixing clowns is not usually a good thing, but I did not know if the size of the tank might make some kind of exception to that.

The 210 is the home of the 2 tomato clowns. Honestly, I like the look of the tomatos more, but want to try and keep the occ because my 2 year old loves "Nemo." The tomato clowns almost solely stay to the far right of my tank, so is there any chance that I could introduce the Occ onto the left side and have him make home there?

I know clowns are territorial, and that tomatoes are typically more territorial than Occ. If you don't think there is any way to make this happen, please be honest. You won't hurt my feelings. I don't want to hurt or kill any fish, but if there is a way to make it work, I would consider giving it a try.

 

[redneckgearhead]

with a 210 gallon I think IF you put them in at the same time you should be ok. But thats just my opinion.

 

[sucker_fish]

I would add them at the same time as well, and keep an eye on them to make sure no one is getting picked on too badly. Just be prepared to separate them if needed.

 

[Toddrtrex]

I personally wouldn't do it. Tomatoes are very aggressive, and like most clowns will become more so when they start spawning. Really don't see them taking too kindly to the other clown.
Part of the issue is when/if it doesn't start to work out, you will have to deal with your kid seeing it, and catching the clown, which could be a challenge in that big of a tank.
Of course I could be wrong and it could all work out, but it isn't a risk that I would want to take.

 

[steri]

I am still on the fence about adding him because I know Tomatoes are typically more aggressive than Occ. If I do add him, I do have a plan to get him out ASAP should the addition not go well. I have a backup tank I can put the Occ in until I find him a new home should I add him and see aggression.

I just wanted to get some opinions before even attempting to add him. I don't even want to attempt it if it will for sure end badly.

So far though, it appears that people think because I do have a 210 gal, it "may" be okay. Is that the consensus?

Should I expect the Occ to get picked on in the way that would happen if you were adding a second occ to attempt to make a pair? I am familiar with that process, so I know what to expect aggression wise with that (a few days until the new one submits), so would this be similar or different?

 

[steri]

Sorry Todd, I was typing when you posted, and posted my post before I read yours. Don't think I did not read your post or consider your opinion. Thanks Todd!

I have to admit, I do "want" to add him to my tank, but my brain is telling me that this "want" may not be the wisest move. Hence why I am on RC for opinions and perspective.

 

[Toddrtrex]

No worries, I type slow.

At least you do have a back up tank ready.

If you were to attempt this (( again I wouldn't )), I would at least remove the tomatoes from the 210 and let the Occ settle in --- If you try it the other way I see them going after the Occ right away.

 

[steri]

Would significantly changing the landscape of the tank suffice, or are you saying that you just think it would be best for the occ to have some time in the tank to himself?

 

[zeeter]

A 210 tank should be fine. That's what - 8 feet? Even if it's 6 feet it's likely not a problem. I would just make sure if they are hosting anemones that you put them on either side of the tank.

How big is the ocellaris?

 

[steri]

It is 6 feet long. Very deep and very wide. It is 24 inches wide. Eitehr 30 or 36 inches deep. I cannot recall off the top of my head. The occ is full grown, or at least I think he is. 3.5 inches roughly.

 

[davocean]

It's a gamble still in that size tank, one I personally wouldn't take, but I can't say it will absolutely not work out either.
A back up plan is good, but I have had a female kill a male once before I could even grab the net, and you seem to know the deal w/ tomato's.
A host nem at each sounds cool, IF the host nems stayed there for one, and if they are anything like my maroons were, they could take both host nems and travel back and forth.
I think if it were me, and your kid loves nemo, maybe it's time for him to have nemo in his own room in a nano, that would be my move.

 

[deangelr]

If I had a 210 gallon tank I would love to try this experiment..

(with a back back up plan )