What's you favorite algae grazer?

[johnike]

I have some Macro in a 240 mixed reef that I'd like to not get out of control.
What would you add fishwise to keep it in check? I keep plenty of snails, and am kind of anti-crab.
My first thoughts were a Sialfin or Scopas Tang, perhaps a pair of small Yellows.
Mixed LPS/SPS tank, here's the current fish list for any compatibility/size questions.
Orangestriped Bristletooth Tang
Starry Blenny
Tailspot Blenny
Golden Midas Blenny
2 Firefish
Rainford Goby
Orangespot Goby
Pink and Bluespot Goby
Purple and Yellow Wrasse
Pair of PJ Cardinals
Kaudern Cardinal
Flame Hawk
4 Yellowtail Damsels
2 Mandarins


Thanks, John

 

[SDguy]

I agree with a Zebrasoma tang. Also have you thought about a rabbitfish?

 

[johnike]

Yes Peter, a Foxface is on the short list as well.

 

[jlanger]

I also suggest a rabbitfish.

I was getting some bubble algae and hair algae growth on the rock rubble in my sump.
I placed those pieces into my display and my foxface had eaten all the algae within minutes.

Our foxface is a great fish. Peaceful and keeps algae in check.
I would like to add a Scribbled Rabbitfish (S. doliatus). I think they're just a beautiful fish.

 

[johnike]

What about coral munching with the Rabbitfishes? And yes, the Scribbled are beautiful.
Thanks, Jason.

 

[jlanger]

My foxface hasn't touched any of the corals.
I have a mixed SPS/LPS reef including lobophyllia spp., euphyllia sp., symphyllia sp., duncanopsammia sp. and goniopora sp.
It didn't bother any of the clams either; when I had them.
The foxface was added when it was smaller than two inches, so I don't know if the age of the fish had anything to do with its eating/picking habits.

 

[johnike]

Thanks, I have lots of LPS and Acans along with a kind of rare clam I'd hate to lose.
Foxface raises to top of list.
The coloration of the Foxface would allow me do get a different color than yellow Tang as well.

 

[rssjsb]

Just keep in mind that an algae grazing tang like the bristletooth on your list may not tolerate a starry or other algae-eating blenny. I don't know about whether a yellow or purple tang would react the same way.

 

[johnike]

There is already an Orangestriped Bristletooth in there now with the three Blennies.
They've been together for quite a while with no aggression whatsoever.
Do different Ctenochaetus species play well? I saw a Tomini, and a Yellow Eyed Kole on Bluezoo just now.
Tanks is eight feet long with a labyrinth of rockwork.

 

[degibson84]

Tomini and kole tangs would not do very well with together

 

[johnike]

Tomini and kole tangs would not do very well with together

Looks like a Zebrasoma of some sort then, thanks.

BZ has Foxfaces and Scopas Tangs now.

 

[jlanger]

Here's a photo of my algae eating crew.
All three patrol together looking for somethng to eat.
Not one piece of nuisance algae had shown up in the main display with them on duty.



The kole tang was established first and would harass the other two for the first few hours, but they're all fine now.

 

[johnike]

What's the other, Jason?

 

[jlanger]

Lemonpeel mimic.

Sorry about the crappy pics.
I'd rather spend my money on my aquarium, so my old camera doesn't give me the best photos.

 

[johnike]

Thanks again, Jason.
I'm gonna bend Snorvichs' ear pretty soon.

 

[johnike]

Ordering a Red Sea Sailfin, and a Onespot Foxface.

 

[jjk_reef00]

Orange shoulder tang would be my choice.

 

[johnike]

Orange shoulder tang would be my choice.

Noted.
Nice looking fish.

 

[reeferstace]

John have you ever considered acclimating some mollies to salt? I have heard they are algae eating beasts.

 

[johnike]

I have not, Stacy.
The algae is not a problem at this point, and I'm finishing my stock list.

Thank you, teacher.