Is a 5.5g enough for a pair of CBS

[weaglereefer]

Picked up one of those ready to go starter kits on clearance for $5. It uses the screw in bulbs, so I got a 50/50 as well. When I had my coral banded shrimp, I really enjoyed him, just didn't enjoy having all my small fish disappear (caught him in the act on one occasion and he was gone). Anyways, tank came with a HOB filter, heater, hood, etc. Tank was cracked so I replaced it for $10.

I'm really wanting a pair of CBS' in there, and maybe some zoas and rics. I already installed one of my crazy actinic LED strips and it does make a noticeable change in the color's output (with no water anyways).

If I get a pair, do I need to buy them as a pair, or can I get two small ones? Can they change sex like many fish can?

Also any thoughts on the background color? Blue or black, I can't decide. Both my other tanks are black so I'm leaning against that, but I'm worried with the LEDs and 50/50 bulb, a blue background will be TOO blue.

Also thinking a MJ with a Hydor flow deflector for additional flow, combined with the HOB filter.


Thanks!

:yay:

 

[smallblock]

just think of whatever would make the white and red pop the best? I didnt know these guys mated up either, tagging along

 

[brianjfinn]

I've heard it can be difficult to get two separate ones to pair up since they're so territorial. Not sure about them changing sex, although I've never heard of it. On a tank that small, I'd go with the black background, especially with the LEDs. Besides, the black will make the shrimp stand out.