Adding a RBTA after 2+ years

Ebone · Jan 23, 2017

So I always wanted an anemone, probably like many people in the hobby then upon much research I never put one in.. I have decided to finally get one

My tank is a little over 2 years old and mostly LPS (mainly because of one huge hammer) and zoas with a number of SPS. It is a 40 breeder I have 2 mp10's and a mp40 providing flow, Also I run hydra 26's for light. My question is what is the best process for introducing my new rbta to my tank?

any input much appreciated.

CodyRVA · Jan 24, 2017

Sounds like your parameters are on point. Flow would be my biggest concern. I've had many in the past, every time I added a new frag and had to slightly adjust the flow, the nems would start scurrying around the tank stinging everything in their path looking for ideal flow. You can try and isolate them, put them on an "island" or position your flow around them to kind of wall them in, but if they want out of there bad enough, they'll find a way. Lighting may be another concern, I've bought some under lower lighting, moved them into a more light intense system and had them bleach. If this happens, it will take months to recover; just be mindful.

If possible, I would put it on a rock down to the sand bed in an area free of other corals so it can climb up for more light if need be and consider the flow patterns as well. IMO moderate to low flow is ideal, too much and they'll bail, but as mentioned, you can try and force them into a spot with your flow patterns.

Ebone · Jan 24, 2017

My concern was flow also... didnt really think too much about bleaching... good news I am getting it local and straight out of someones tank so at least I will have an idea about the conditions it has lived in. They also have leds so that is beneficial

bairdimusprime · Jan 24, 2017

tank sounds ready for it.
you will need to reduce flow so it can find its happy spot.
odds are it will sting your sps corals. once its stable and found its place you can start up with the flow again. mine love a medium flow. they have stayed in the same place for 4 years now

Ebone · Jan 26, 2017

Want to thank everyone for their input and showoff the prize... not sure why it looks so pink in some it is more orange than pink, with green and sparkles i guess is best way to describe it... it is just settling into a nook now...