Stocking Order Opnions

[kmbyrnes]

After a 3 month build, the 350 FOWLR is finally cycling. I now have to look at the livestock list.
There are some fish in my reef that really need the extra room of the 350, and I want to make the transition to the new tank as smooth as possible.
Since I can't add them all at once to a new tank, I want some opinions on the best order to move them to the new tank.
Everyone is happy and healthy in their current living quarters, so there is no rush to move anyone anywhere. I am most concerned about the Naso and PBT, but if that is misplaced I want to know.

Current Livestock ( all peacefully co-existing in a 6' 125 ) :

Blue Damsel
Vagabond Butterfly
Naso Tang
Yellow Damsel
Coral Beauty Angel
Dot-Dash Butterfly
Koran Angel
Pearlscale butterfly
Yellowhead Butterfly
Declivis Butterfly
Pakistani Butterfly
Flagfin Angelfish
Goldflake Angelfish
Chevron Tang
Sergeant Major damsel
Yellow Longnose Butterfly

Currently in QT:
Moorish Idol
Powder Blue Tang
Heniochus Butterfly

To be added from the Reef:
Yellowtail Coris Wrasse
Clarkii Clown Pair
Java Damsel

 

[McPuff]

I'd move like-fish in at the same time. In other words, angels at once, tangs at once, etc.

You may consider leaving the sgt major out unless you add it last.

I'd also try to get that Idol in the tank earlier than the other angels and tangs. Let it get accustomed to the surroundings and eating like a champ.

For order I would do the following:

1) 1/2 butterflies
2) Other 1/2 butterflies
3) Idol and heniochus
4) tangs
5) angels
6) wrasses/clowns
7) damsels

In my opinion this will be a good way to get the more shy fish established first, and then bring in the other more aggressive fishes over time. Groups 6 & 7 may not be the most aggressive but they CAN be really aggressive to newcomers so this is why I suggest adding them last. The other fish shouldn't pick on them much.

Finally, I'd make the additions at night so the other fish are not aware of them until the morning. And then it might not even register.