Damsel trouble.

[DevonMeep]

My tank I believe has finally finished cycling. I have a barred damselfish that I used to help cycle it but unfortunately now I can't find anyone to take it. I refuse to flush it. Is there a chance it won't bother other fish? I'd like to get a clown but I know they're the same family..

 

[Waters]

A lot depends on the size of the tank. Damselfish are extremely territorial...the bigger the tank, the better chance you have of the fish not causing issues down the road. That is one reason why it is always good practice to do fishless cycles...safer for the fish and you don't have to worry about removing them later :)

 

[120reefkeeper]

If I were you I'd take it to a LFS and either give it up in trade or just give it to them. Most LFS would gladly take it especially if it's free.

 

[LostInTheDark]

Have you trust retuning him to the place you bought him? Since he was the first fish introduced and been on his own for a while he now owns the tank. Best to regime him. Leaving him could cause a lot of frustration and lost fish.
Also;
In the future it is better to start your cycle with some live rock and a dead shrimp or even a little fish food. Even though the damsel survived it does have to deal with high ammonia and nitrites which is sorta cruel. Cycling with some hardy fish used to be the standard but is readily discouraged now because it is somewhat cruel. Just some info for next time.

 

[PatW]

Damsel fish tend to be extremely aggressive.they are often mindlessly combative. I scuba dive. I have seen damsel fish attack fish that are hundreds of time their size. I have been attacked frequently myself. They can't do any damage through a wet suit. But they audacity of it is impressive. Many are beautiful and hardy. I would not keep one. There are better choices.

Also using a fish to cycle a tank is unnecessary. You can buy ammonia that is formulated for starting the cycle of a marine aquarium. I do that rather than using a hapless fish for the purpose.