Fish suggestions for smallish sps bonsai tank

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have a 50g Elos and going bonsai style. No rocks, just a branching bonsai tree thing from west mariculture, it’s very minimal. Need some suggestions on free swimming fish that don’t need much hiding spots. Thanks.
 
I really like my Cryptic Wrasse but any possum wrasse would probably be a good fit. A pair of bangaii cardinals would probably look neat in a tank like this as well.
 
Perhaps some Anthias?
 
Maybe a nice wrasse? Yellow coris wrasse? Sixline? They can add nice movement and good personality!
 
Pajama cardinals? They will enjoy the open air rock work but not need hide holes. Also their beady red eyes are entertaining for guests.
 
How much work are you willing to take On?

A group of apogon parvulus would be cool. Or a group of pseudanthias ventralis!
 
Never owned one myself but you could get a trio of fang blennies I believe they stay out in the open quite a bit.
 
Good suggestions but as of now wrasses are out until I find a good looking cover that doesn’t take a way from the rimless open top look.

Anyone know if the fang blennies are jumpers?

Was thinking on a pair of storm clowns...
 
If you don't want a lid then assessors should not be added.
 
Good suggestions but as of now wrasses are out until I find a good looking cover that doesn’t take a way from the rimless open top look.

Anyone know if the fang blennies are jumpers?

Was thinking on a pair of storm clowns...
I think they can be sadly.
 
You can get a lid kit at BRS for 30-40 bucks. Well worth it. get the 1/8" netting though.
 
More than likely, you'll also want something that doesn't require rock to feed off of (either film aglae or pods), which, IMO, rules out a lot. I'd probably go with cardinals, firefish or damsels.
 
Starry blenny (if you can feed him well)
Zebra Barred Dartfish
Firefish (need lid)
Clown goby
Or you could fill the system up with clowns?
 
Vanderbilt Chromis and Red Honey (Crossi Damsel) are something I've always wanted to try, but I've never seen any in any of my LFS's. Probably should add the Crossi damsel last if you want one.

I do not recommend a Fiji Blue-Devil Damselfish, they look amazing but they are named devil for a reason.
 
Vanderbilt Chromis and Red Honey (Crossi Damsel) are something I've always wanted to try, but I've never seen any in any of my LFS's. Probably should add the Crossi damsel last if you want one.

I do not recommend a Fiji Blue-Devil Damselfish, they look amazing but they are named devil for a reason.
Vanderbilt chromis have begun coming in a little more regularly from the Philippines the last couple of weeks, so hopefully you will see them soon at your lfs.
 
Starcki damsels would be cool. Like Fiji blue devil colors but I think more peaceful
 
I have 4 assessors now and have always had at least two.

They are prone to jump, much more so when they are new and/or uncomfortable. They are like firefish in that they will hide, jump or be skittish if they are feeling intimidated.



Once comfortable and settled in, they rarely hide and dont jump nearly as much. They will be active all the time hovering over, under and around rocks and ledges. They don't always swim in the open, but they shouldn't be hiding.

About lids: my opinion is EVERY fish will jump and EVERY tank requires a lid. I feel a responsibility to give my fish the best and safest possible environment and I believe this means a lid to prevent accidents. I would never keep an aquarium without a cover capable of keeping the fish contained.
 

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