Pygmy Angel in Nano Reef

[rickh]

Hello.
The LFS is trying to convince me to put a Atlantic Pygmy Angle in my 20 gallon cube. The tank has many different types of coral frags, nothing special, but I would hate to see them eaten by the angel.

I have always heard that it's not will the angels will bother the coral, but when.
Your first hand experiences would be appreciated. Thanks. Rick

 

[skibum9884]

Most will tell you that it depends on the individual fish. In a 20 gallon cube I'd be a bit more concerned however. If it does take to nipping, in most large systems it'll be spread out and not present problems, however in your smaller system, the nipping will be more concentrated on a few corals/frags.

I'd advise against it, but crazier things have worked out in the past!

 

[9thwonder]

I had a C. argi in a 24g nano cube and it didn't pick on anyting at all

 

[rickh]

Thanks for the input.

I have always played in safe and boring with fish selection, but then I have never had a compatibility problem either.

My house-sitter killed my fish while I was on vacation!!

R

 

[2006]

I had a C. argi that picked on clams but stayed away from LPS and softies. I didn't have SPS at the time.

 

[halcyon]

I have a C. Argi and have had it for about three months. It is doing fine and not picking at any of the corals in my 20 gal. But, I have heard from many, it depends on the individual fish.

 

[rickh]

Thanks

 

[locust]

Oh yeah they are pickers alright, they will sample everything, and if they like it, well you can kiss it goodbye. Depends how much you like your corals i guess.

 

[rssjsb]

Also, while tiny, these guys can be holy terrors in a small tank, so you probably will have trouble putting any other fish in.

 

[rickh]

I decided against the LFS recomendation of the Angel. I will put in a few boring, but safe fish. Last time I had a Firefish and a Tailspot Blenny. They were happy until I add a Clown that terrorized them.

Thanks for the advice. Rick

 

[Sheol]

In a small tank, will be a bully & tyrant. They are not IME bad pickers at all, but again, in a smaller tank, risk is increased..

Matthew

 

[mjoener]

Pygmy Angels pick when corals are stressed.

+1 to all those who said it will be a terror.
If added before more peaceful fish, it may stress them out too much.
I had a Coral beauty, added last to the DT, thought he was king of the 34g I had set up, my female clown showed him! RIP