keeping a clownfish pair in a 20 gallon

[folksy]

Thinking about setting up a 20 gallon for a pair of Clownfish. Anyone got experience with this size? Wondering if it's enough space long-term, or if I'll need to upgrade later. Tank's got a HOB filter, live rock, and a basic LED light. Planning to keep it simple with just the pair and maybe a cleanup crew.

[oceanwave8]

A 20 gallon's totally fine for a pair of Clownfish, especially if it's just them and a cleanup crew. I've had mine in a 20 for years with no issues. Just make sure your water params are stable, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, and nitrates under 20. They're pretty chill as long as the tank's not overcrowded.

[craftyx]

I've got a pair in a 20 gallon too. They're doing great, but I'd recommend a protein skimmer if you're not doing frequent water changes. Mine's a bit lazy with maintenance, so the skimmer helps keep things clean. Also, watch out for aggression if you add more fish later. Clownfish can get territorial.

[vortex]

A 20 gallon's totally fine for a pair of Clownfish, especially if it's just them and a cleanup crew. I've had mine in a 20 for years with no issues. Just make sure your water params are stable, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, and nitrates under 20. They're pretty chill as long as the tank's not overcrowded.

Yep, agree with this. I'd add that a good heater is key too. Temp swings can stress them out. I use a 50W adjustable heater, keeps things steady at 78F.

[Dance]

What kind of cleanup crew do you guys recommend? I've heard mixed things about snails and shrimp with Clownfish.

[oceanwave8]

What kind of cleanup crew do you guys recommend? I've heard mixed things about snails and shrimp with Clownfish.

I've had success with Nassarius snails and a couple of cleaner shrimp. The Clownfish ignore them, and they do a solid job with leftovers. Just avoid anything too small, like tiny hermits, they might get messed with.

[folksy]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. Sounds like a 20 gallon will work as long as I keep up with maintenance. Gonna start cycling the tank this weekend.

[craftyx]

Good call on cycling first. Patience pays off with saltwater. Let us know how it goes once you add the fish. Always cool to see new setups.

[vortex]

If you're cycling with live rock, you might see some weird algae phases. Don't panic, it's normal. Just let it run its course and test the water regularly.