Newbie question about anemone...

[NickBee]

We have a 75 Gal fish only tank set up. I’m thinking about starting up a 20 Gal coral tank to learn a bit more about reefing. The whole idea of having an anemone and clown interacting is very enticing.

But…

I’ve read that anemone’s need to be introduced to an established tank (up and running for 6 months at least). I’ve also read that Anemone should be added 1st to a new reef tank since they can move to where they like the flow in the tank (and zap other corals on the way). Does that mean having a bare tank for 6 months? Not that I’m in a rush. I just want to figure out all the nuances before I commit to a clown / anemone set up.

Thanks!

 

[raoul]

Well, good for you for doing the research ahead of time! So many don't (myself included - we got lucky though). We recently purchased another anemone for a different tank, and this time researched! The time I spent waiting for my tank to mature I used for researching.

An established tank (and reefkeeper) is crucial in the survival of a nem. Most people do recommend at least 6 months. We started our 6 month countdown after our 6 week cycle had ended. I'm not sure when everyone else begins their countdown.

Many would also recommend going no smaller than a 30 gal due to nem growth as well as water fluctuations. The higher the water volume the easier it is to keep stable which goes a long way in keeping these guys happy.

It is true that nems can move to find a happy spot, but with research you may be able to get a jump on that and create a spot that in theory your nem should feel comfortable in, hopefully reducing its need to walk about. Not a guarantee, but so far it's worked both times for us.

We added a few fish to our tank, and some bigger corals that are fairly easy to move if necessary - we had to look at something during that time! There's also the clean up crew that can go in at the regular time as well.

I am holding off on buying clowns for my nem until it's settled in and happy. I didn't think the bta needed that extra stress. I'm also hoping that instinct kicks in when I put the clowns in the tank and they run for the shelter of the anemone!!

Continue to do more research, I think you'll find it facinating as well as helpful. There's a very good FAQ link at the top of the forum as well that provides a lot of information.

Good luck!