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is a flame angel safe with soft corals
Posted: Sun Aug 24, 2025 1:30 pm
by flowyer
I'm thinking about adding a Flame Angel to my 75-gallon reef tank, but I've got a bunch of soft corals like mushrooms and zoas. Anyone know if they'll mess with them? I've heard mixed things.
Re: is a flame angel safe with soft corals
Posted: Sun Aug 24, 2025 1:37 pm
by rockyfox
From what I've seen, Flame Angels can be hit or miss. Some folks say theirs never touch corals, while others end up with nipped polyps. Maybe try feeding them plenty of nori to keep 'em distracted?
Re: is a flame angel safe with soft corals
Posted: Sun Aug 24, 2025 1:59 pm
by techna
Flame Angels are part of the dwarf angelfish family, and their behavior varies individually. In a 75-gallon with ample hiding spots and a varied diet, the risk is lower. However, zoas and mushrooms are often targets due to their fleshy polyps. Monitor closely for the first few weeks.
Re: is a flame angel safe with soft corals
Posted: Sun Aug 24, 2025 3:09 pm
by gearbox
I dunno, man. My buddy's Flame Angel wrecked his softies in like a week. Might be sketchy if you're super attached to your corals.
Re: is a flame angel safe with soft corals
Posted: Sun Aug 24, 2025 3:50 pm
by flowyer
rockyfox wrote: ↑Sun Aug 24, 2025 1:37 pm
From what I've seen, Flame Angels can be hit or miss. Some folks say theirs never touch corals, while others end up with nipped polyps. Maybe try feeding them plenty of nori to keep 'em distracted?
Thanks, that's a good idea. I'll stock up on nori and see how it goes.
Re: is a flame angel safe with soft corals
Posted: Sun Aug 24, 2025 5:24 pm
by techna
If you decide to proceed, introduce the Flame Angel last to reduce territorial behavior. Also, ensure your water params are stable, especially salinity and temp. Sudden changes can stress fish and increase the likelihood of coral nipping.
Re: is a flame angel safe with soft corals
Posted: Sun Aug 24, 2025 6:57 pm
by rockyfox
techna wrote: ↑Sun Aug 24, 2025 1:59 pm
Flame Angels are part of the dwarf angelfish family, and their behavior varies individually. In a 75-gallon with ample hiding spots and a varied diet, the risk is lower. However, zoas and mushrooms are often targets due to their fleshy polyps. Monitor closely for the first few weeks.
Yeah, that's solid advice. My tank's only 55 gallons, so maybe that's why mine got feisty. Bigger space might cut it.
Re: is a flame angel safe with soft corals
Posted: Sun Aug 24, 2025 8:51 pm
by gearbox
Just saying, if you're gonna risk it, maybe start with cheaper corals. No point losing your fancy stuff to a hungry angel.
Re: is a flame angel safe with soft corals
Posted: Sun Aug 24, 2025 10:12 pm
by techna
Another factor is tankmates. If the Flame Angel is the only centerpiece fish, it might focus more on corals. Adding a few peaceful fish like clownfish or gobies could help distribute its attention.