Question about stocking a Tang.

[KMS.Kyle]

**Update: We've decided against it based on the advice given but still looking for suggestions on something to add!**


Hello. don't use that term here ~ Sugar

I've been following a few threads now where some people swear by tangs not being in a tank less than 90 gallons or some say they're OK in a well setup 55gallon+

It turns out that my "55 Gallon" tank is actually a "65 gallon" tank and I was wondering - with my current setup if I'd be able to get one - We're looking for 1 more active swimmer to go with our Wrasse to complete our stock (The clowns are always at the top and the PJ is always hiding) but we're completely open to advice/suggestions or if anyone suggests a different type of fish.

This is my rock setup - I'm hoping because its an odd shaped tank - 39 x 14 x 32 that it would give it enough space to swim but again, I care a LOT about the comfort of my fish and I don't want to do something that would upset my little ecosystem.

Thank you for the input!

Current stock:

1 Golden Sleeper
1 Firefin
1 Mel Wrasse
2 Clown fish (paired)
1 PJ Cardinal

 

[Dayson]

IMO a 65 is still to small for a tang. The people of RC will prob yell, scream, and call you an idiot for even asking. I say if you really want to try it, get something in the bristle tooth family. A Kole would be a good choice.

Just know that there is a possibility of him going AWOL or getting sick and than you would most likely have to break down your tank to catch him.

 

[Caurimare]

I think you already know the answer to this .... in case you don't the answer you are going to get it is "NO" , it is not so much the volume it is more that they need a longer tank. Have people done it? of course ... have they being successful long term? I doubt it.
any ways your tank your money ... you can always go with a very small tang and be prepare to find him a bigger home when the time comes.

 

[cloak]

It probably can be done with a Kole tang or something similar, but it's definitely not ideal. If your statement above about caring a lot about the comfort of your fish holds true, then your best bet would be to pass on the tang. Sorry.

 

[KMS.Kyle]

Got it - I definitely won't do it.

NOTE: My tank definitely didn't get to be how beautiful it is by NOT listening to the reef community.

On that note: What about a Hawkfish? I've fascinated with these guys after seeing one at the store - I read that most are aggressive but one type is peaceful

 

[ali1]

39 long is too small. they like to swim and graze all day

 

[WaReefer458]

I can shed light on this. I tried adding a small Kole into my 40 and it instantly got territorial and started killing anything in the tank that ate algae. It's just not a good situation. Add a couple more wrasses. That's what I did. Returned my tang and bought 3 wrasses. Mccoskers, Solon, and a long fun fairy. Tank has great color and lots of movement. Most importantly, everyone is happy! Good luck.

 

[KMS.Kyle]

I wanted to get another Wrasse so badly - I love mine so much but I was worried they might fight for territory / places to sleep in the substrate?

 

[kmbyrnes]

Got it - I definitely won't do it.

NOTE: My tank definitely didn't get to be how beautiful it is by NOT listening to the reef community.

On that note: What about a Hawkfish? I've fascinated with these guys after seeing one at the store - I read that most are aggressive but one type is peaceful

Smart Man

 

[3dees]

flame hawk and longnose are great fish for any tank. they may be a problem with very small shrimp or hermits. if you want swimmers, look elsewhere. they mostly perch on a rock, coral, or a pump overlooking the tank.