Should I be worried.......

[Andre Arnold]

Hey guys!!! So.... I just decided to add a Japanese Golden Hawkfish to my tank..... As soon as I added him, my Gem Tang decided to attack him. I pulled the Gem out because I am trading him for a baby anyway. But now I've noticed that my Borbonius Anthis is chasing him around... Do you think I have to worry, or is this just my Anthias trying to establish dominance?

 

[pcon]

How long has the aggression persisted? What size is the tank?
It is not uncommon for established fish to bully newly introduced fish, for the first few days to a week. This is why the use of a social acclimation box is recommended. An acclimation box allows established fish to see and smell the new fish and get used to their presence without the risk of aggression damaging the new fish.
Borbonius and Hawkfish both live in close association with the rocks and would compete for similar food sources. Along with their vaguely similar body shape and color. This can be a recipe for aggression on the reef.

 

[Andre Arnold]

They have only been in the tank together for a couple of hours. I will see if things get better today once I get home from work. The tank is a Red Sea Reefer 350. So it's 4 ft long. I will be using my acclimation box for my new gem tang today that's why I didn't use it. Thank you for your help.

 

[Jon Fishman]

I know Gem Tangs are expensive..... but never knew someone would give you a baby for one......

 

[Andre Arnold]

I know Gem Tangs are expensive..... but never knew someone would give you a baby for one......

... Well I am paying a little bit. Way less than what I paid last year for the other one. He just became too aggressive. He would chase down any fish that is in the water column, and he physically attacked the Hawkfish. If only I could catch my sixline!! lol!