are these fish suitable for a 30-gallon tank

[fruitymint]

I'm setting up my 30 gallon tank with Coflake Rock on the ground, along with some fake silk plants. I'm thinking of adding a Lion Fish, a Trigger, an Algae Blenny, a Snail, and probably a Snowflake Eel.

Will they all get along or is it gonna be a war zone? Do I really need live rock or can I just use fake rock for the fish to hide behind?

[coltin]

I think the choice of triggerfish is crucial here, as some species are notorious for being aggressive and may see the blenny as a snack, and possibly even have a go at the other fish.

You can use fake rocks for decoration, especially if you've got a good filter on the tank. However, having live rock can be beneficial for biological filtration, so it's worth considering.

A protein skimmer is a must for a predator tank like this, as it'll help keep the water cleaner for longer.

One thing to keep in mind with the eel is that they're notorious escape artists, so make sure you've got a secure cover on the tank to prevent it from making a break for it. Block up any gaps around the lid, or you'll be saying goodbye to your eel.

[zenfox8]

It really depends on a number of factors. The lionfish, for instance, needs to be a dwarf species - specifically Dendrochirus sp. - as the more commonly sold volitans will outgrow your 30-gallon tank.

The triggerfish is another story, with some species getting too big or aggressive to coexist peacefully in a smaller tank.

[fruitymint]

Thanks for the info, guys. I was really set on the Niger Trigger Fish, but after reading your warnings, I'm having second thoughts. I was also looking at the Violiet Lion Fish, but I found out they get way too big for my tank - that was a bummer. I saw one at Petco for $44, but I just can't justify it. The smaller dwarf Lion Fish just don't have the same appeal, which is really disappointing.

As for the filter, I've got a standard 20-40 water one, so I'm going to hold off on the skimmer for now and add it later.

[dreamon7]

If I were setting up a small tank like yours, I'd definitely consider a Niger Trigger. I recall zenoxa having good luck with one in his 30-gallon, and that's likely due to his extensive experience. They're pretty resilient fish, resistant to many diseases and can handle a rough life. In my case, my Niger took a nasty fall - 5 feet onto hard concrete - and somehow managed to survive unscathed. Just keep in mind that you'll need to get him young and be prepared to rehome him eventually, as they can get aggressive and stressed after a year or two.

[zenoxa]

I actually had a lagoon trigger, Rhinecanthus aculeatus - unfortunately, he passed away while I was on vacation.

Niger triggers, specifically Melicthys niger and Odonus niger, are large and fast swimmers. A young one would be suitable for a thirty gallon tank, but it's essential to plan for a tank upgrade as it grows. I'd recommend starting with a 1-2'' specimen. They're also reef safe, which is a plus.