Aiptasia

[Deli]

I know this is a redundant subject, but I feel it addresses a different aspect. About two months ago my tank was covered in aiptasia and I went ahead and purchased a Copperband Butterfly from my LFS. The fish has dwindled the problem down to only two visible anemones. My question is how do you know when they are gone forever? Will they always come back? Should I take the chance by putting some corals in the tank with the Copperband? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[OrionGirl]

Gone forever? Well, I guess I would say they are gone forever if you go more than a year without seeing them re-appear--but mostly that means the ones in an area where they can grow are gone. I've found that they can 'survive' buried in sand, or between 2 rocks, and spread if moved to a more desirable location. I've had good luck keeping them under control with kalkwasser paste. In terms of adding corals--hit or miss. Some copperbandeds will leave corals completely alone, some will 'taste', some will chow down. No way to know about yours without testing. I'd pick up one of those critter carriers, so you can put the coral in, but still have a safe place to put it in the case that the butterfly treats it like a buffet.

[Deli]

Thanks for the advice, I might try to put a Bubble Tip Anemone in the tank to please my Tomato Clown. Hopefully the Clown will defend the Anemone from any feasting tendencies the Copperband might have.

[OrionGirl]

Research the needs of the anenome very well before buying one. If the tank doesn't have reef lighting (5+ wpg minimum), you'll need to upgrade first. A mature, stable tank is best as well.

[butterflylove]

what is a copperband butterfly?

[OrionGirl]

It's a saltwater fish with bright yellow bands on a white body.

[Deli]

Here is a picture of the Copperband.

http://www.themarinecenter.com/butterflycopperband.htm

My metal halides should offer enough light for the anemone.

[OrionGirl]

My metal halides should offer enough light for the anemone.

;) Yep. I feel obligated to make the statements about researching them anytime someone says they want one--anenomes are one of those critters that die more often than not, and inadequate lighting and feeding is often the problem. :) Glad to know that shouldn't be a problem for you.

[Deli]

I hope no offense was taken from my comment, I wasnt trying to poke fun or sound sarcastic. I think it may have come out the wrong way. Thank you for your advice and all of the research you do.

[OrionGirl]

Oh, no, I didn't think you were being sarcastic at all, no offense taken. :)