Turtle Weed Tank Idea

[Random Aquarist]

So here's my plan:

1. Get some turtle weed, Chlorodesmis fastigiata, and let it grow until it covers my 100 lbs of LR. While it is growing, buy some pods and let them reproduce until there is a big population. Also, get some snails and maybe some hermit crabs.

2. In several months, set a BTA and let it settle down where it wants.

3. Get a pair of maroon clowns.

Would this be a practical setup? Will the BTA eat the pods? Would a pod population this size be able to sustain my clowns' feeding requirements or at least feed them a little? With this much macro, would I need to dose phosphates, ammonia, etc.?

 

[Random Aquarist]

Hello?

 

[lucifersreef]

i dunno, but i hope someone answers cause this sounds interesting

 

[boxfishpooalot]

I dont think the pods will support the clownfish appatite. I dont even think they eat pods in nature, why would they eat it in a tank?

The grass will keep the N,P low I know for sure providing the input of food is not huge.

 

[yrema]

IMO you still need to feed your fishes, and your BTA.

 

[Amphiprion]

They eat mostly 'pods in the wild, followed closely by algae, actually. Sometimes algae can make up over 50% of their diets. If you could somehow provide a massive, constant source of them, they could do ok if they get a source of algae as well (I still think you are going to have to feed them, though). I don't think, however, that they will nibble on Chlorodesmis spp. since it is fairly noxious, so you will still have to provide supplemental algae (and possibly other foods). The BTA will eat some 'pods, but it will not be enough for it.