Question about Emperor Anglefish in FO/FOWLR

[Timmy's Marine]

We are in the planning stages of a FO or FOWLR tank (probably the FOWRL) and I was wondering if someone can shed some light on this subject?


We have not yet selected a size of tank but definately 100g+. I have read that some use mechanical filtration on their tanks - is this an ok thing to do, or is it best to do (we have a reef tank right now so I am coming from a bit of a different experience).

We know for sure that we don't want a predator style of fish, and hubby is really wishing to have an Emperor Ang. but I have read that they are "semi-aggresive". Does that mean that if one were to own this fish they couldn't house other fish with it, or does it mean that it can be nippy?

And, if any, I was wondering if someone could also tell of their experience with this particular angle (was it difficult to get it to eat, temperment, etc etc)

I know it is a pain to answer these questions, but I would like to do the homework first before making any big purchases. Also, when we have the fish that we would like to have down - that will determine the size of tank as well.

[cheeks69]

We have not yet selected a size of tank but definately 100g+. I have read that some use mechanical filtration on their tanks - is this an ok thing to do, or is it best to do (we have a reef tank right now so I am coming from a bit of a different experience).

Well what do you have in mind ? I use a skimmer and a filter sock in my reef and some even will use sponges the key is cleaning !

We know for sure that we don't want a predator style of fish, and hubby is really wishing to have an Emperor Ang. but I have read that they are "semi-aggresive". Does that mean that if one were to own this fish they couldn't house other fish with it, or does it mean that it can be nippy?

Large Angels in general once established can become assertive so best to house with other fish of the same size and that can hold their own like Triggers, Tangs etc. The Emperator can grow quite large and a 100 gal. tank would be the minimum for these guys. AFA food unlike many large Angels they do well with prepared foods but I would make sure it's eating before purchasing the fish.

[Timmy's Marine]

My husband was thinking of purchasing a fluval or similar filtration system, but I know with reef - you have to be so cautions that your readings do go sky high cause of the build up of "stuff" within the tubes and the canister itself. I mentioned the 100 because that is our minimum that we are willing and wanting to go. Our reef is 72 and my husbands dream has always been to have a large SW fish tank (the reef part was my request).


Another problme/question that comes into play:

My daughter has a small maroon clownfish in her tank (maybe 2.5" at this time) - we will be getting rid of that tank to make room for the big one - can the maroon go in with an angel (any type) or with tangs (any type). My husband doesn't have the heart to sell it cause it will upset her soo much - but ultimately will if he has to (she is 7 so it could potentially be a big sob situation)! I have read that clownfish are compatible with both types of fish - but I tend to be leary of just reading it off a page rather than hearing it from those who have experienced it.

[cheeks69]

I had a Fluval and don't recommend you use them, they will need to be cleaned regularly as they will trap detritus and leftover food and they're just not made to be opened and cleaned regularly and were a pain to prime, maybe the new one's are better but IMHO it would be much better to invest in a good skimmer which unlike the canister filters can actually export the nutrients.

can the maroon go in with an angel (any type) or with tangs (any type).

Maroon Clowns get big and are probably one of the most aggressive/territorial clownfish and don't see a problem, just make sure he's added before the larger fish and you should be fine IMHO.

[Timmy's Marine]

awesome, thanks so much for the response. The journey continues on finding fish and their needs so we can start this baby up!

[mps9506]

I'm a bit biased because I work for Hagen, but the newer Fluvals work much better than the previous generations.
That being said, any large marine aquarium really should have more than a canister filter for filtration. The canisters are great for chemical and mechanical filtration, but from a biological filter they don't cut it on large marine setups, especially heavily stocked marine tanks.
As far as the Emperor Angel, I would decide on the tank size first then decide on tank mates. They definitely get pushy as they get bigger, but in a tank with enough space they do fine with other fish, as long as they have the space to get away.

[bluespotjawfish]

I have an Emperor Angel in my 125 gallon, they are a very personable fish. I would recommend at least this size of tank (larger if you want any other large fish as well). I have housed it with a variety of other fish, large and small (Palani Tang, Fox Face, Yellow Tangs, Nasa, Maroon Clown, gobies, damsels, flame angel, etc). He has not been a problem with any of them. I would not house it with another large angel of the same body type, but other than that I wouldn't think you wouldn't have any problems with this fish from that perspective. Mine grunts at the other fish, but doesn't attack them at all. I often see them with some triggers at the lfs, but I don't know anything about which triggers and have never done that myself. I have mine in a reef tank, and they pick at corals. He eats anything and everything I put in the tank. They can be more prone to disease that some other fish are. Just buy one that is eating and is healthy from the start. Make sure your tank is mature before adding. Provide stable temp, good water quality, good food, and I also soak food in selcon or other supplement.