Multiple Rabbitfish??

[returnofsid]

Lee, I need some advice...

I have a 200 Deep Dimension that has a One Spot Foxface in it, that's been in the tank for about 2 years. Awhile back, I "adopted" a 75 that had a Magnificent Rabbitfish in it. I'm tearing down the 75. What are the chances that the two Rabbitfish will get alone, in the 200? If it comes down to it, I'll remove the One Spot Foxface, which would probably require tearing the 200 down to catch...lol, and keep the Magnificent Rabbitfish. Obviously, I'd rather not have to go that route, so figured I'd get some advice...

If it matters, both fish are approximately 6-7" and FAT. If anything, the Magnificent is slightly larger than the Foxface. The Foxface occasionally bickers with a Tomini Tang, but it's typically the Tomini that starts the trouble and the Tomini always win the skirmishes.

 

[leebca]

The Rabbitfishes can be tricky. Most are very docile in general -- after dominance is 'fixed.' Unfortunately your fishes are close to the same size. Generally not great for compatibility. The books say not to. I have had success with these two getting along. Out of 4 pairs, only one wouldn't go. But they were different sizes. Do you have knowledge of both their personalities? The Foxface seems okay as you described. If either shows or has a fighting spirit, it may be a problem. I would give it a try, just don't be sad if it doesn't work out -- also, have a back up plan if they don't get along.

 

[returnofsid]

Lee, thank you! Neither Rabbitfish has ever shown any aggressive nature at all and the Foxface gets beat up, about once every 6 months, by a Tomini Tang...lol. I do have a back up plan. Actually, the Magnificent Rabbit is currently in a 100 gallon stock tank with a bunch of live rock and a pump for flow. Here's my plan for tomorrow, let me know what you think...

I have a couple very large, clear fish bags. Tomorrow I'm going to catch the Magnificent Rabbit and bag it up. Then I'm going to float the bag in the 200 and see how the Foxface reacts. IF the Foxface reacts aggresively, attacking the bag, it may give me a chance to actually catch the Foxface. This plan obviously won't help me to determine if the Magnificent will be the aggressor though.

In the very near future, probably in the next week, I plan to completely tear down the 200 and set it back up. I'm doing this to rid the tank of some very potent and aggresive Palys. This will give me an opportunity to catch the Foxface, if needed. If necessary, I can move the time table up a few days.

 

[leebca]

You pointed out the weakness of the plan. Most fish won't go to a floating bagged fish and attack unless they are 'crazy' aggressive. But there is no down side to the plan. Go for it!