Stocking Question?

[ryanandsix]

i have a 45 gallon corner aquarium. it's just as deep as it is wide. all fish have a minimum gallon tank rating. my question is, do these minimum gallon ratings apply to me or do i have to drop it because of not having a long tank? i hope you understand my question. i know what i'm trying to say, in my head. i just don't know if i'm explaining it correctly.

[leebca]

In general, the proper reply is it doesn't matter. This however deserves some explanation.

Since the tank isn't long enough for Large Angelfish, Tangs, Rabbitfish and such fishes, then the shape doesn't come too much into play. The exception is the 'foot print.' It is always best to have the largest foot print. Fish don't swim up and down, so depth is not that important. It is width and length which makes up the biological filtration area which supports more bio load.

Now, with regards to minimum tank ratings -- don't believe most of what you read. Be sure to read through this post first: Fish Stocking Limit - for FO and FOWLR. Do keep in mind that those numbers don't include the size tank when the fist has grown. Always stock based on the size the fish is when it is fully an adult.

If you're into Anemonefishes at all, that would make a great tank for the large species like the Maroon. A mated pair would love that tank, along with a couple of small fish that don't interact with them.