Adding new Wrasse questions?

[ChouDawg]

Hey guys, going to be adding an Adorned Wrasse (Halichoeres Cosmetus) to my barebottom 40 breeder peninsula soon and had a couple questions:

1) I know the Halichoeres genus needs sand to burrow in, I've read of people keeping them without sand without any issues but most people agree they don't thrive without it. That being said I was planning to add a small sandbox to my tank, what dimensions do I need, trying to go as small as possible of course. Acrylic will he the safest but can I get away with a small tupperware?

2) My current stock list for compatibility check:

4" Starry Blenny
2-3" McCosker Wrasse
Pair of Hybrid Ocellaris/Percula Clowns (Egg Laying Regularly)

Thanks!

 

[Marshall O]

Well the box would need to be at least 6" x 6" at a minimum I would say based on how large they get. You can do a tupperware container, yes. As far as compatibility, they are all compatible. However the Blenny & Clowns will more than likely not like the new addition. Especially if it gets too close to the Clowns clutch! The P. mccoskeri will also likely chase after it for the first day. I would use an acclimation box for sure. Put the tupperware container in the box so it can get used to it before releasing it.

 

[ChouDawg]

Thanks for the info! I know the clowns will be able to hold their own especially with their eggs, but they don't seem too aggressive as the Starry Blenny will be picking at rock within inches of their eggs and although they will freak out whip their tails and basically blow a bunch of water...I've never see them actually nip at the other tank mates. The McCosker is usually roaming around and gets chased by the clowns from time to time so I don't think I'll have a problem with that one either especially since the Adorned will be larger.

I have one of those floating plastic breeder pens but a 6"x6" sand box certainly wont fit in it, I could probably block off the bottoms of some of the side grates and fill it with sand and a piece of PVC. How deep does the box need to be and with how little sand I'll need what would be the best source for it? I don't need live sand per say and I've read that you should change out the sand regularly?