Ocellaris Clownfish - did a hermit crab kill it? and next steps

[curviceps]

Hi all

I had a pair of Ocellaris clownfish - both were very healthy and feeding very well. The female in particular was strong and active and was feeding well a hour before I suddenly found a hermit crab and nassarius snails feeding on it.

The female had been territorial and been moving the hermits along when they came close to its home. Could the hermit that had been feeding on it killed it during one of the run ins? (ie are they known to do something like that as opposed to being scavengers.)

And what's next - if I were to get another, should I get a female or a male, allowing the existing to change to female?

cheers
Tim

 

[swhobbie1]

I've had many hermits and they never went after fish. The clown probably died and they found an easy meal. Sorry for your loss.

 

[acabgd]

Most certainly the hermit didn't kill your clown, unless it was already a goner. How long dis you have it and how old is your tank?

 

[curviceps]

Have had it for a couple of months. The tank has been established for about 6 months now. Have not noticed any signs of disease on the fish.

cheers
Tim