Bad fish

jboone82590 · Oct 5, 2015

I just got 2 clowns and iv had 2 damsels for a while and now the damsels are attacking the clowns and won't let them go near the rock. My question is will they stop or do I need to get rid of them?
Or could I get an anemone and that protect them?

gidenski · Oct 5, 2015

This is a fairly common beginner mistake (I did the same). Damsel fish in general are super aggressive, but many people have success when adding them last. They're tough little guys to catch, so maybe try doing a little aquascape re-arranging to shake things up and change their territory. Otherwise, yup, you'll likely need to put a lot of rock out and to catch them.

You can try the nem, but there is no guarantee the clowns will host.

gidenski · Oct 5, 2015

I'm also assuming you have blue damsel fish.

Tahoe61 · Oct 5, 2015

You'll improve success keeping damsels in larger aquarium. You can try moving some of the rock work around to disrupt territories. In the long run though each damsel is going to defend their territory. As for acquiring a anemone I certainly would not unless your tank is old enough to house an anemone successfully long term. You think Damsels are trouble, wait until you worry over an anemone.

Trex · Oct 5, 2015

What size tank?

As for getting an anemone -- protecting the clowns, alone, wouldn't be a reason to get one. They aren't the easiest things to care for, and require a proper environment.

gidenski · Oct 5, 2015

Trex said:
What size tank?

As for getting an anemone -- protecting the clowns, alone, wouldn't be a reason to get one. They aren't the easiest things to care for, and require a proper environment.

Plus they tromp over everything!