Question about new arrivals

[slam308]

Just received two O. clowns, a cleaner shrimp and two Margarita snails this afternoon. By the time they were acclimated, the 4 hour lights off time ends when the pc lights would normally go off. I'm planning on just waiting until lights come back on tomorrow. Okay?
Also, should I try to feed them a little tonight or wait until tomorrow? Normal feeding time is 6 pm, should I give them a bit earlier, or wait for 6 pm?

They look great, by the way! Thanks!!

 

[dfs/la2]

slam308,

Thank you for your recent order. It sounds like you are off to a good start! We really appreciate your questions and comments. We are happy to hear your order is doing well. We recommend waiting to feed your Ocellaris Clownfish at least 24-48 hours. To give the new arrivals more time to acclimate to their new surroundings and their new tankmates. This extra time allows your fish to adjust and recover from any shipping stress before feeding. This will aid in their acclimation as well as ensure no uneaten food could foul your tank.

Cassie Z.
Drs. Foster and Smith
LiveAquaria

 

[slam308]

Great, thanks.
I'm sure it'll tick my Chromis off (he's a pig!), but so be it.

Do you recommend feeding the shrimp, or just let him search out what he can?

 

[dfs/la2]

slam308,

Thank you for communicating with us and accepting our suggestions for feeding your new arrivals. We would recommend waiting 24-48 hours to feed all new tank mates. We hope you enjoy your beautiful new additions.

Pat S.
LiveAquaria
Drs. Foster and Smith

 

[slam308]

Sorry for the misunderstanding, some people suggest target feeding a shrimp (after the 24-48 hrs.) and some suggest letting him pick up scraps from the tank. Which do you suggest, and if I should feed him directly, what food do you suggest?

 

[DFS/LA1]

slam308,

While the Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp can be target fed, it does not need to be. In the aquarium, their diet can include freeze dried, frozen, and dry foods. These shrimp will also scavenge the bottom of the aquarium during feedings consuming uneaten food. One of the great things about cleaner shrimp is that they are opportunistic feeders, easy care, and comical to watch during feedings.

Kris W.
Live Aquaria.Com
Drs. Foster and Smith

 

[slam308]

Ok, one more question, somewhat unrelated. I bought a couple packs of frozen Formula One and frozen Brine Shrimp Plus by Ocean Nutrition. For a 24 gal tank with the two clowns, one chromis, the cleaner shrimp, a turbo, two cerinths, two hermits, two nassarius and two margaritas (whew!) about how much of one frozen cube should I feed each day? I don't want to overfeed, but I want to make sure everyone gets something.
I realize some of the snails probably won't eat either of the foods I mentioned, but I'm just covering the bases by listing everyone.

 

[DFS/LA1]

Slam308,

We are glad that you are concerned about overfeeding and are asking questions. We would suggest feeding your fish at least two times a week, and no more than they can eat in 3-5 minutes. You may have to adjust the amount you break off the cube until you find the ideal amount for your tank. In general, you do not need to directly feed your snails. If you would like to supplement your snail's diet, you can break a small piece of a sinking algae wafer into the tank no more than once a week. You may also be interested in referencing a great marine aquarium resource book, such as "The Simple Guide to Marine Aquariums,” seen on our website at the link below, or other books available at your local library.

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=8104&prodid=15273&catid=3

Kris W.
Live Aquaria.Com
Drs. Foster and Smith