One of sanjay's hybrids getting picked on mercilessly

[michaelp]

I added two of sanjay's hybrids to my 180 g probably about 9 months ago. There were already a pair of clownfish in there (a very mature breeding pair). Up until the last few weeks everything seemed to be going ok. Now the breeding pair and one of the hybrids are mercilessly picking on the fourth. His fins are all torn up. He still eats, but spends most of his time hiding in the pulsing xenia because as soon as he shows his face they come out to harrass him (but mostly his hybrid mate is the biggest harrasser).

I'd much prefer to give him to someone than let him die slowly (likely I'll never be able to catch him though, even with a fish trap), and as long as he's eating, I guess he's still doing ok, but just wondered if anyone had any thoughts on whether this was a temporary hierarchy being established type of thing, or if he's likely to continue to be punished.

 

[pecan2phat]

If it's to the point of his fins being badly torn, I would say get him out. Clowns can get very ruthless.

 

[pmoneyt]

if you catch him i will take it

 

[JimmyR1rider]

I would think to nip it in the but now, maybe not feed for a while so when you do hell be out longer and net him? Am sure many people would love to have him and would give him a nice home free of bullies.

 

[rookie07]

You could also catch the other clowns...then put in the smallest male of the three you caught...just an out of the box idea

 

[Aqua Pro Builder]

If you catch it and it is still in good shape to survive, I would like to trade him- I have corals and other clowns. I am supposed to have a hybrid too, if I can get it back from my friend's son at the swap. Then i can make a pair again.
lmk very interested.

[email protected]

 

[masterswimmer]

Michael, I'm going out on a limb here. Sticking my neck out there to get sliced and diced

My guess is that you've got a pair that is getting ready to start breeding. I'm guessing they're becoming overly aggressive because they are establishing their territory.

Keep us posted
Russ

 

[sanjay]

Clownfish in multiples ultimately lead to issues just like the one you are experiencing. Even a 180G is not big enough for them. Even my 500G tank is pushing the limits. I had a pair of black O's and I threw in 6 of the black photons. The black O's were relentless in chasing the smaller black photons and kept them pinned in a small corner of the tank. At least in a big tank they have room to run away, but still 2 of them were killed, and now I am left with 4 of the black photons. What is even worse, is the daily chase and harassment the male black Ocellaris jumped out of the tank while trying to chase the others. Now without the male, the female black Ocellaris is tolerating the other clowns.

So Russ may be right, the other clowns may be starting to get serious about pairing and mating, and getting aggressive.

Take the little one out. Best way to do it is at night after the tank has been in pitch dark and the fish are asleep. Much easier to catch them then.

sanjay.

 

[2slo4me]

I agree with Sanjay most of my clowns sleep towards the top of the water. and its 123 to catch once lights are out. Good Luck!

 

[caad3]

Poor dude... I had the same problem when I mixed some false percula's with a pair of black clowns... Get him out and put him in your sump until you figure out what to do.