How big a tank for Regal angel?

[Manta1]

Hi

Planning a 4 or 5x2x2 - is this big enough? Would also like to keep emperor tang and other assorted smaller fishes.

Thanx

 

[Anonymous]

4x2x2 is a 120gl and a 5x2x2 is a 180gl. The 180gl I would say would be the minimum size tank for both a Paracanthurus hepatus ( Regal Tang ) and a Pomacanthus imperator ( Emperator Angel ).

Regards,
David Mohr

 

[reefland]

4x2x2 is a 120gl and a 5x2x2 is a 180gl. The 180gl I would say would be the minimum size tank for both a Paracanthurus hepatus ( Regal Tang ) and a Pomacanthus imperator ( Emperator Angel ).

Regards,
David Mohr

Minor correction: 6x2x2 is a 180.

 

[Anonymous]

Minor correction: 6x2x2 is a 180.

Duh!!

Yup it is. But my minimum tank size would stay the same. 6x2x2 or 180gl.
That would be minimum size and you'd probably have to upgrade.

Regards,
David Mohr

 

[dizzy]

Also he said Regal angel not P. Imperator. The Regals max out much smaller than the Emperors. A 120 prolly isn't so bad, but the 5 footer would be perferred. The challange is getting them to begin feeding. After that they do very well. I've had one in a 160-gallon cylinder a few years and growth rate is pretty slow IME.
Mitch

 

[Manta1]

Thanks guys, probably go for the 5footer then 8)

 

[monkeyboy]

Also he said Regal angel not P. Imperator.

And he also said Emporer tang, so I'm not sure I know what fish he's talking about here.

I'm suprised no one mentioned the unacceptably poor success rate with Regal Angels! I would make sure that the one you choose is in good shape and eating, although I also frown on stores that stock these critters.

 

[Anonymous]

Also he said Regal angel not P. Imperator.

And he also said Emporer tang, so I'm not sure I know what fish he's talking about here.

I'm suprised no one mentioned the unacceptably poor success rate with Regal Angels! I would make sure that the one you choose is in good shape and eating, although I also frown on stores that stock these critters.

Dang I'm getting sloppy.
Yup I missed 'Regal angel" but saw Emperor tang I so figured it must be Emperor Angel. :?
I probably would have mentioned it if I could read. :wink:

Regards,
David Mohr

 

[Anonymous]

While we're on the subject, make sure your regal angel is the FIRST fish in your fully cycled, established and stable tank. This is extremely important with this species.
The reason is that this species needs the best environment possible in order to acclimate to captivity. It should be provided with an environment free of competitors and their existing territories which will stress this delicate species and negatively affect it's immune system. The regal angel should be allowed to set up shop first. Then later other fish can be added, making sure to quarantine EVERY fish before adding it to the system. No exceptions.

Jim

 

[Manta1]

Thanx for great advice guys

We didn't think about adding the Regal first though. Over this side of the pond the advice is add these sorts of species when tank is fully mature. But I guess you guys have more experience - haven't heard of too many success stories with this species.

I did mention an Emperor tang also, do you think they also require this size of tank and are there any compatibility probs with these 2 species?

TIA

 

[Anonymous]

A fully mature tank, yes. However fully mature doesn't necessarily mean stocked with fish. :wink:

 

[Manta1]

Thanx Jim 8)