IM 40gal fish suggestions?

Olin · Mar 12, 2019

Hello!
I have a innovative marine 40 gallon tank that has been up and running for over a year now. Currently have the tank focused more on corals but would love to get some fish going. Currently have a male Lubbock wrasse that has been in the tank for 6 ish months now.
I do not know much about saltwater fish species and temperaments. I am willing to learn and take care of some more needy fish. The one thing I want to stay away from forsure is anything interested in munching on coral.
Thankyou!

geddavis · Mar 12, 2019

You should Check our Live aquaria and see what you like that fits in a 40 and is reef safe

geddavis · Mar 12, 2019

By the way if you pick out a fish or 2 tell us wich ones. Also make sure to not put more than 2 fish in as you could over power your biofiltration.

JBKReef · Mar 12, 2019

I would say get some fish that earn their keep. Sand sifters and Algae eaters.

Blennies, a goby, and wrasses.

geddavis · Mar 12, 2019

Not sure tank requirement for 6 line wrasses But I think they are really cool.

JBKReef · Mar 12, 2019

I like my Yellow Corris Wrasse, he burrows in the sand at night so that helps turn it over, constantly picking at the rock for any critters, and a shocking flash of yellow in the tank (which I opted for instead of a yellow tang)

i would say for a 40 all tangs are out of the question.

Olin · Mar 12, 2019

I do really like wrasses, I had a myster wrasse but he did not get along with the Lubbock wrasse. I've been under the assumption that more than one wrasse is not a great idea at this size tank. I do like the idea of them picking at critters though.
And yes I will post when I decide on what to do fish wise.

nereefpat · Mar 12, 2019

Stay away from wrasses in the Psuedocheilinus genus. This includes six-lines, mystery, and their close cousins.....Really mean, especially to other wrasses.

Look into:
firefish
clowns
long-nosed hawk
tailspot blenny
royal gramma

geddavis · Mar 12, 2019

possum wrasses are great

Jesterrace · Mar 12, 2019

geddavis said:
Not sure tank requirement for 6 line wrasses But I think they are really cool.

That would be a definite no for his tank. 6 line wrasses are pescacidal maniacs when they mature and he already has an established Lubbock's/Tri-Color Wrasse in there. IMHO a 40 gallon is maxed out with one Wrasse, unless you are talking about a Possum or Pink Streaked. Stick with the Lubbock's for that tank as they are probably the best bang for buck wrasse you can get for a tank of that size.

@the OP, a Cherubfish could work and be a fun and active addition to your tank, but you mentioned you want to stay away from coral nippers and Cherubfish can be a gamble there (are though IMHO better than average compared to other pygmy angels). Here are some other fish that could work in your tank

Hawkfish (ie Geometric Pygmy, Falco, Flame)
Cardinalfish
Ocellaris or Percula Clownfish (no more than 1 pair)
Basslets (ie Royal Gramma, Black Cap)
Possibly an Orchid Dottyback (no other Dottyback though)
Firefish