emporer angel; how immaculate is immaculate H2O?

[noogiefish]

okay. so i'm gonna do it, i got the 200g tank and i've decided it needs an emporer angel. I know they need immaculate water, and i AM putting them in with a couple of aggresives (lion, grouper), and i DO plan to get a protein skimmer. The tank has been running for about 3-4mos. now, and my nitrates are still ±5ppm, so how immaculate does this water need to be for a healthy emporer home? any other fyi's anyone might want to impart as well? i am thinking about going to buy them where New Guy did, at $38, its a steal! any input would be appreciated.

 

[amphiprion]

If you can maintain the 5 ppm nitrates, you shouldn't have any problems. The problems comes maintaining that number. DO get the protein skimmer, as your tank ages, the nitrates will climb with the aggresive feeders you have in the grouper and the lion. The skimmer will clean the water before the left over food can break down into nitrates. Get a good skimmer. On that size tank you will need it.
Also, as the juveniles change coloring into adults it is common that their coloring is very dull compared to wild fish. And they are prone to Head and Lateral Line Erosion (HLLE). You need to keep up your water qualtity to prevent this. Also soak all food in some vitamins with HUFA's - such as Zoecon or Selcon.
Good luck - it's a beautiful fish.
[ August 04, 2001: Message edited by: Amphiprion ]

 

[noogiefish]

thanks, i appreciate it.