Clown fish aggression to new dottyback

[George03]

I feel badly about these little dottybacks, I have one in hospital for bites, and this one being chased. Tank is going on one year all my guys are originals and survivors (believe me!). I had thought there is enough path ways and hiding spots and things have been very peaceful until I added a couple of juveniles. The 3rd is a larger fish and they don't bother it. Has anyone seen this get out grown or, is it a more drastic situation? My only local rehoming choice is PetCo. Adding a hiding structure or something?

 

[Impunitus]

I've read about people using a mirror on the side of the tank to attract aggression from tangs when adding new fish, maybe it would also work on the clowns?

Otherwise maybe an acclimation box would be of use here?

 

[George03]

Thanks for the idea. I was thinking of using a pvc pipe with holes big enough for the little guys.

 

[Turnage]

I've read about people using a mirror on the side of the tank to attract aggression from tangs when adding new fish, maybe it would also work on the clowns?

Otherwise maybe an acclimation box would be of use here?

+1 for the mirror idea. Clown fish are very territorial. A sea anemone might help if the clown decides to host it.

 

[Mr. Mojo Rising]

what size is the tank, it looks small? Clowns and dottybacks are all aggressive fish and more so in cramped area's, you might want to reconsider your fish choice. IMO only, good luck

 

[Gumbies R Us]

I also would be curious about the tank size too, if the tank is too small their will be agressive issues between the two fish as they will be battling for territory

 

[George03]

there is a craft store near me....

 

[George03]

Well there is also the pet shop next to the craft store. Plan B :(

 

[George03]

well the LFS that is close has their entire reef section under quarantine, recycle. I have put up the mirrors, and the purple dottyback responded immediately. The clowns particularly the male, seems unfazed. Which makes me see the activity as the clown participating with the dottyback, and maybe as a individual, might not care all that much. I am thinking about sending the mature dottyback to the quarantine tank and putting the 2 juveniles back in the main tank to see.