Tankmate balancing act

[carnthetiges]

My plan all along was a 3 fish nano w/ soft corals.
The tanks had been going well with 2 clowns and a royal dottyback.

The female clown has always been grumpy but recently turned feral and relentlessly bites the male.
I don't have a sump, a 3 day time out in a mesh fry box didn't work. Unfortunately it looks like one of them needs to be re-homed.

I'm loath to try and pair another clown so i'm looking for something small and robust.
The dottyback has been a model citizen thus far but concerned that might change if a new fish is added.
Love some ideas on another tough bugger. Initially was thinking a coral goby but worry he won't be able to handle the dottybacks famed reputation.

Cheers

 

[Jekyl]

What size tank?

 

[Jekyl]

Also welcome to R2R!

 

[carnthetiges]

Also welcome to R2R!

Thx, it's a 15g AIO.

 

[Jekyl]

Depending on which type clowns can be very territorial. I'd check through liveaquaria.com for temperament and recommended tank sizes. Will give you the best idea and the pictures to go with it for new fish choices.

 

[carnthetiges]

Yeah, they we Ocellaris. Had a pair years ago with no issue but this one's proved quite the bully.

As for tanks mates, i was thinking maybe a pixie or longnose hawk. Size and temperament make me think the dottyback would be wary. That said it's probably pushing the tank into overstocked territory.

Bicolour blenny was another i had in mind given the different shape and area of the tank. Worry it may not be able to hold its own if the dottyback takes exception.