How do I know if I am Overstocked???

[ed d]

I am pretty sure my 55 tank is over stocked. How do I know for sure? What are the signs that I am heading for a crash? or other problems?
I have a 55 g tank with a CPR pack pack for filtration and protien skimming. There is a Rio 1700 power head near the top for circuilation. I have about 25Lbs of live rock.
The Fish load includes a 23" zebra morey eel, 1 4"Damsel, 1 3" damsel and 6 other 2" damsels and clowns.
The water quality has been easy to maintain, Nirite and Ammonia are close to 0, Nitrate is in the 20-40 range. Water changes are twice a month, One 5 gal and the other 10 Gal.
Everyone appears healthy. The fish and eel all seem to get along OK. The tank has been up and running for about a 1.5 years. I was told 6 months ago the tank was grossly overstocked? What am I doing right?

 

[dirtybilge]

You don't sound that bad to, all your fish are mini fish, but the eel on the other hand is large, if you water starts to slip trade him in for another smaller one. But if it does not your ok.

 

[krusk]

well
for fishes along already over crounded (9 fishes total)
and a 23" eel
hmm and they are get along fine hmm

 

[kris]

i agree with ed in that you may want to add to your filtration a bit even if it just adding a second bakpak. That will help keep your water quality-you said your ammo and nitrites are NEAR 0, if they not actually 0 then you need more. you have some very hardy fish though who probably could give a s**t one way or the other as long as you keep feeding them. The biggest signs to me for overcrowding is water quality, and fish behavior--does everyone have a hideout ? is everyone getting enough to eat?and while some fish are naturally agressive, an overcrowded or too small a tank will make them impossible.
More fish simply means more equipment and more maintainance.
good Luck (although it sounds like you are doing pretty well

 

[striker]

A little more lr would help you in the filtration dept. Your fish may still be small so you won't notice any problems but when they get larger you might have a mess in your hands. Especially with the eel. I'm suprised he hasn't munched on your damsels yet. I thought they ate small fish.