[rm303]

Hi, all.


I have had my 40 gal set up for over a year with liverock and a few soft corals. I didn't want to get carried away, so started out with two young clownfish (false percs I beleive...the "common clown") that I have had for over 8 months. I have noticed that lately they have been facing off and the smaller one has some fin and scale damage. They will face off, back up and tense up...followed by the larger of the two chasing the small one around the tank. I have no other fish in the tank and my water parameters are well within the recomended range. I have been feeding the clowns flake/frozen brine. (alternating the two) I cannot figure out the issue as they have been together fine for over 8 months with no issues. There are plenty of spaces and room in this tank... please keep in mind that I am not a "I want a Nemo" situation...I just wanted a good hardy fish and feel so far I have cared for them great. I have had full reef tanks in the past w/no fish and am really just gettign to know their habits. I am clueless as to why this aggression is just now occuring.

Any help would be appreciated...Thanks!!!

[rlcline76]

It might be mating season. I hear tales that they usually just nip at each other and chase each other around the tank. I have 2 that were chasing and harassing the other fish, to the point where just about everyone in the tank looked like they were from the wrong side of the tracks and chased my cherub around so much that I think he had a heart attack. You never know, you might get a few Nemos out of this. If you don't want little ones, there are a few things out there that might eat the eggs (assuming you get them). I hear bristle stars are good for that. I have a little black one that does not bother the fish. Either that, or you might just have a complete bozo on your hands.

[benesh10]

maybe the smaller is just not becoming a male. Hermaphroditic malfunction. haha.