[leebca]

Your bio-load isn't all that big, however it would not be unusual for a FOWLR system to target about 2 pounds of LR per system volume.

What is the length of the Angler? These predatory carnivores will produce a lot of nitrogen wastes. It may be more than your system can effectively process. Do you know how often the Angler eats a Damsel?

How thick in inches is the crushed coral layer? Do you know about the particle size of the crushed coral in mm?

[ghandidawgg]

the angler is about 2 1/2 inch long. he usually eat 1 damsel a week but just started feeding him silversides. there is only 1 damsel left in the tank with him.the crushed coral is about 1 1/2 inch deep. unsure of the particle size because my girlfriend set it up before we were together. It was set up may 2006 I think. I have lots of green algae growing on the back and a few green algae bubbles around the tank. don't know if that has anything to do with all this. just thought I'll throw it out there. Should I siphon the coral before I do a water change?

[ghandidawgg]

Also, the tank has been running this whole time without a protein skimmer. just throwing that out there as well.

[leebca]

The green algae is showing up because it is taking advantage of the nitrates, phosphates, proteins and other nutrients (e.g., light, elements, etc.).

A protein skimmer will reduce proteins and help starve the algae. In addition, a protein skimmer will help reduce phosphate and further help starve the algae.

You're probably running a system with a bit more organics in it than most hobbyists, by not using a skimmer.

At that substrate depth, there may be pockets of anoxic conditions, but not likely totally anaerobic conditions in the substrate. Still though I don't know the particle size. Your circulation is up to where it belongs for a reef aquarium. Just be sure the water flows all around the aquarium. Do you see any corner or place where there is a build up of waste or detritus?

I would siphon the rocks and substrate if you have any indications that there is waste build up there, or any accumulation of detritus. Siphoning the substrate is usually a routine maintenance activity, unless there are benthic marine life in the aquarium that are not to be disturbed.

I would advise obtaining, installing and running a skimmer that is rated for a 75 to 100 gallon tank. When you feed the plankton, turn off the skimmer for a couple of hours.

You said your mechanical filter doesn't seem to be collecting anything. That could be okay if there isn't anything to collect. Make sure you're filtering the tank properly (intake is properly located, you are using a filter tight enough to pick up bits, and that tank circulation prevents wasts from settling on the rocks, substrate, corners, etc.).

Silversides are not the best food for your Angler. I would feed fresh/live marine fishes. It's the cost/price for having one of those fishes.

I would suggest you continue to perform the water changes, make sure your circulation is getting every corner and area (front and back) of the aquarium, siphon out any detritus or decaying matter or solid waste, review how you have your mechanical filter setup and running (see above), and install and use a protein skimmer (see above).

[returnofsid]

Another option for feeding your Angler would be Mollies. You can actually get Mollies that are adapted to saltwater. If I were you, I'd set up a seperate tank in which to raise your own saltwater Mollies. I wouldn't feed Mollies exclusively but they're an inexpensive option for part of a varied diet.

[ghandidawgg]

wow. that's a lot of good info. I definitly will get myself a good skimmer but right now money is tight as we are waiting for a new addition to my family in just a few days...my baby girl is finally coming. I will take all ur advice. thx...

[weez1959]

Congrats on the up coming baby!
If you plan on getting a hang on back skimmer consider one of these:
AquaC - Protein Skimmers!