Who Gives A Fish Forums

I was told the 1 inch per gallon thing applied, guess not. Still, what's the diff? They're all just fish, right? They all grow.

so engoiskater158 - do you think that's overstocked without the 1 inch per gallon rule. how do you figure, like 2 inches per gallon or something?

It really depends on your tank goals. For fish-only, it's manageable, but for a reef tank, it's overstocked unless you've got a substantial sump and skimmer setup.

so if i took out the carpenters wrasse and mandarin, would that be better for a reef tank?

I was told it was, but honestly, it doesn't really apply here. Saltwater fish are way more sensitive to water conditions, and they usually need a lot more space than freshwater fish. Their natural environment is just so different, you know? It's not like there's a set rule or anything, you gotta consider each fish on its own.