Many questions

[Tyler6508]

Just like any others new to the hobby, i'm full of questions.

I have a Gobi that always hides. He only comes out when there is absolutely no one around. Very skiddish. kinda disappointed with the fish. is it normal for them to hide 23 hours and 45 minutes of a day?

I also would like to know how to get so much purple algae growth on live rock? Is there a specific name for it too?

I just got my light system and i was wondering if they are even strong enough for corals. They are 48" Nova Extreme T-5 including: 4 lunar lights, 2x 54w T5 HO SLIMPAQ 10,000k daylight, and 2x 54w STS HO LIMPAQ 460nm Actinic lights. I'm tryin to understand where the wattage for the lighting is important.

Im also only into the cycle 4 weeks. When is it suitable to add corals?

What are good corals to start with?

 

[ripthesystem]

As a n00b, I can only answer some of your questions...

1) Goby's hide. It's not uncommon at all and my guess is that you're using him to cycle your tank. Don't be disappointed in him, just use it as a learning tool as that whatever you put in your tank will act differently.

2) Purple algae is called Coraline. Search it and start reading.

3) If you read my threads, it's obvious I'm lost on the lighting situation

4) As far as adding fish/corals.. you need to make sure your tank is fully cycled. If you don't have a test kit, you'd better invest in at least a Master Saltwater Test Kit. This is what I use: API Saltwater Test Kit

 

[HappySkittles]

1. most gobies hide. what kind is it? that might help (it might also be hiding if your cycle isnt done...might not be doing so hot)

2. the purple stuff is called coraline...you need high calcium and other er stuffs i guess...google it >_<

3. i think you need metal halides for corals...either you need them or they are just the best...not sure...also depends on what kind of coral you want

4. if you are still in your cycle you shouldnt be adding ANYTHING
test your water and make sure ammonia nitrites and nitrates are 0 (there is a safe range for nitrates i think but i dont know...might be less than 20)

mushrooms are pretty easy to take care of
but you cant add anything till you test your water and make sure its ok

 

[Tyler6508]

The gobi is a shrimp gobi. he just only comes out during feeding

 

[HappySkittles]

what kind of shrimp goby?
and does he have a healthy appetite? if he does hes probably doing well
you should still test your water

 

[sassafrass]

The light you have is fine for all but the most demanding corals , your goby is not coming out because it is not well from living in a tank that isn't cycled yet . If you continue to keep it in your tank it may die . You might see if your LFS or a fellow reefer could hold it for you until your tank finishes cycling.

 

[cdness]

what are the water parameters? If it is still cycling get the goby out and into a QT tank. Let the display cycle correctly with no fish. No need to potentially harm the goby if the cycle isn't done yet.

Gobys are usually a very cool fish with great personalities. Give it some time and it will come out.