Making a tank safe for very small fish

[LordJoshaeus]

I am strongly considering keeping Pseudomugil cyanodorsalis, the blueback blue eye, in my 10 gallon saltwater aquarium. The issue is that this species does not exceed an inch and a half and will likely be smaller when I receive them. What can I do to make my tank safe for such small fish? In particular, what kind of pump or filter should I use to avoid sucking them up? Thank you.

 

[Dread Pirate Dave]

The intake will probably need a coarse foam filter over it. When I was quarantining my Chromis I had my orchid dottyback separated from my six line. The chromis were able to swim through the top slots of the divider. If the fish is small enough they'll go where you don't expect them to. :)

 

[LovinlifeinGuam]

I am strongly considering keeping Pseudomugil cyanodorsalis, the blueback blue eye, in my 10 gallon saltwater aquarium. The issue is that this species does not exceed an inch and a half and will likely be smaller when I receive them. What can I do to make my tank safe for such small fish? In particular, what kind of pump or filter should I use to avoid sucking them up? Thank you.

I've kept fish that size in tanks smaller than that and used a return pump meant for a chiller hose for circulation and a HOB filter. I think you'd be just fine doing the same in a 10 gallon. Also, if you use live ocean rock, Id suggest inspecting it for crabs and removing any you find since crabs are scavengers who would happily make a meal out of any little fish of gjven the chance.

 

[LordJoshaeus]

The intake will probably need a coarse foam filter over it. When I was quarantining my Chromis I had my orchid dottyback separated from my six line. The chromis were able to swim through the top slots of the divider. If the fish is small enough they'll go where you don't expect them to. :)

Since making this post I was able to attach a sponge filter to the intake of my powerhead, so I think that problem is solved.

I've kept fish that size in tanks smaller than that and used a return pump meant for a chiller hose for circulation and a HOB filter. I think you'd be just fine doing the same in a 10 gallon. Also, if you use live ocean rock, Id suggest inspecting it for crabs and removing any you find since crabs are scavengers who would happily make a meal out of any little fish of gjven the chance.

Does that include hermit crabs?

 

[LovinlifeinGuam]

Since making this post I was able to attach a sponge filter to the intake of my powerhead, so I think that problem is solved.

Does that include hermit crabs?

Although it would depend on the fish (a bottom dwelling fish is much more vulnerable than a fish constantly swimming) and the species of hermit crab, just understand that all crabs are scavengers and will eat anything they can if hungry enough. As long as the fish isnt a bottom dwelling species, I think youd be fine with a hermit crab though.

 

[LovinlifeinGuam]

For example, I wouldnt trust any crab with a Greissinger Goby due to their size and the fact that they stay on the sandbed.

 

[MDAquatics]

I never even see them. You have a source?

 

[LordJoshaeus]

I never even see them. You have a source?

Currently looking for one...the Wetspot told me they will likely get some in the next few months. Imperial tropicals occasionally carries them but are currently out of stock.