damsel vs. chromis

[jojoandphia]

I have a 55gal tank that I want to start adding fish to. I have already cycled it and have about 90-100 pounds of live rock. The ammonia, nitrite, ph and nitrate levels all check out. What is the best fish to start with? Are chromis better then damsels? I have read that damsels are aggressive and have to go once you get into better fish, but would the chromis have to go as well? How many should I start with? Please help

 

[billaweed]

chromis are good and are best kept in schools. I had damsels and they woud fight a lot so I got rid of them. get a few chromis. I think the look cool when schooled. Maybe 4

 

[BCT182]

How long had your tank been up and running? The thing about damsels is they are super hearty, you can step on them with baseball cleats and they won't die. They are very mean though, and you'll end up removing them eventually. Chromis are generally much nicer fish, but are not as hearty. I think the general rule is, if you add 10 chromis to a tank, you'll have 5 after three days. They just don't seem to ship well. Once they are established though, they make a great reef fish! I'd take you'r chances on the chromis and stay away from the damsels. =)

 

[jojoandphia]

It has been up for about a month maybe a month and a half. I think that is enough time. Right??

 

[billaweed]

It has been up for about a month maybe a month and a half. I think that is enough time. Right??

Month and/or a half doesnt seem like a long time. Should be able to add some starter fish. But I do believe your tank will probably "re" cycle with the change in the bioload so watch your perameters. Do you have bare bottom or sand substrate in your tank?

 

[jojoandphia]

I have crushed coral. Do you think you need a skimmer before you add fish? If so what type? There are so many and I have no idea what would be needed for a 55 gal. I have seen some for over $400 is that really needed for a beginner?

 

[billaweed]

you can pick up cheaper ones. I have one I'll sell ya for 10$. Its just been layin around and its rated for 100 gallon tank. Let me know where your located and we can work something out.

for beginning you wont need a very big skimmer but as you add more fish and other live stock you'll need to get rid of the added protein in your water which will require a better skimmer.

 

[jojoandphia]

I live in southern WI.
Maybe you can tell me if its better to have a hang on the back type or one under the tank. I have a bio-ball system that came with the tank, no fuse or sump.

 

[billaweed]

I only have a Prizm 100 hangon on my 55 gallon. It seems to work pretty good. I dont feed a lot nor do I have many fish. but I like it.

 

[jojoandphia]

What would the best inverts to keep the tank as clean a possible?

 

[Reefergeorge]

I would put in some chromis.
I have been told to always buy them in odd numbers. Don't know why but it works for me and my five are always schooling.

 

[Damsel13]

chromis are way more docile

 

[billaweed]

What would the best inverts to keep the tank as clean a possible?

hermits, turbo snails, astreas snails

 

[Damsel13]

actually blue devil damsels are the ones most refered to as "damsels" but chromis are damselfishes too.

 

[Kurt_Nelson]

Whatever you do (I'd go with the chromis myself, probably just 3 for a 55g), I'd suggest adding the chromis/damsels last. You want to add the less aggressive fish first, then work your way toward the more aggressive. So, if you plan on having a clown, add it before the chromis.

 

[Scooterman]

Chromis are in the damsel family, same with clown fish, there are so many variants it is crazy. Chromis is said to be the lease aggressive but after keeping them a while they will get territorial.

 

[jojoandphia]

Thanks for the help, so is there a better fish to start with?

 

[Kurt_Nelson]

It all depends on what you want in your tank. I wouldn't shy away from chromis... they're great fish. Friendly, all over the tank, and not really aggressive with their tankmates - although they will occasionally nip at each other. They can be jumpers though when startled, so be aware of that. My only point is to take in consideration your stocking list, and add the more docile fish first. They can then claim their territory and not feel as threatened when new fish come into the system. For me, I've got a clown, a bangaii cardinal, three chromis, and a clown goby - and they came into the tank in that order. (The clown goby definitely isn't the most aggressive... it was just a case of "one more fish" syndrome!)

 

[Scooterman]

Like Kurt mentioned, If you go with them do It last IF all possible, even though they are typically small fish they grow fast, the larger the tank the less Territorial problems you will have. This won't be prevalent until later as they get bigger, food is the driving tool for their possession of space

 

[chadmace]

I put 5 Chromis in my tank the weekend after I filled it up, the same day I threw in my live rock and 7 months later I still have 5 Chromis.

Just make sure that you want the fish that you put in your tank. Its easier to put them in your tank than it is to get them out.