When is the bioload too much?

[Blazer88]

I have had my 65 up and running for about 7 months now (rock was from established tank) and I am wanting to add two purple firefish into the mix. I currently have:
Kole Tang 4"
Coral Beauty 4"
2 false-percs 2"
Bi-Color Blenny ~3"
Yasha Haze Shrimp Goby ~2"

My tank has GHA but it has been vastly improving over the past few months. I figured this was normal since the tank was fairly new. I am using a 15G sump/fuge and I have to trim my macro every other week. I am consistent on my maintenance and do a water change every other week. I also have a large skimmer (CSS 220) to keep the water clean. My water parameters have always been stable with zero nitrates, PO4, or ammonia. I am thinking my tank could easily handle the extra bio-load produced from the firefish, but I also want to make sure the current inhabitants would mix well. Any problems adding the firefish last? I was hoping to pick 'em up from the Share Reef during Saturday's meeting. Thanks for the help.

 

[steve-s]

Personally I think your already at a good stock level for the size of the tank considering the fish you have at this point, some might disagree. More importantly though, I think if you are finally winning the battle of the hair algae, adding more waste producers could easily set back the clock on your progress. I would wait until the algae problem is completely eliminated before considering any new fish additions if at all.

Cheers
Steve

 

[NaH2O]

I agree with Steve on this one. Adding two more fish may upset the win against the algae, as you would not only be adding to the waste load, but you may start feeding a bit more.

 

[Blazer88]

You both are right. Since the GHA is FINALLY going away, I would hate to add anything to it. Maybe one day my Angel will become a nipper so I can trade her for the two firefish Plus I've started to add some SPS (6 frags) to my tank which means I need to keep my water even better. Thanks for the input!

 

[nasher8860]

when your doing 2 water changes a week of 25%-40%( for a couple of weeks)and don't overfeed. And you still have Nitrates then you have an overstocked tank. LOL