Upgrading tank size, best time to add new fish?

[rskillz]

Since I'm going up from 72 to 180 I'd like to add some fish. Inparticular I want to add a trio of Anthias, Sand sifting goby, Christmas Wrasse, and maybe one more later on.

When would be the best time? Right after the move since to fish have established their territory? Wait until things die down a while? DURING the move over so it's fresh for all fish?

Just curious, seems there would be a logical right way to do it...

 

[gwhiz]

My first thought would be filtration. I'd be hesitant to add to the bio load while the tank is adjusting to the move. Even if you're moving all the live rock, sand, etc. you're still disturbing the bio filter and risking a cycle--especially if you add to the bio load at the same time.

 

[rskillz]

Gwhiz;623930 wrote: My first thought would be filtration. I'd be hesitant to add to the bio load while the tank is adjusting to the move. Even if you're moving all the live rock, sand, etc. you're still disturbing the bio filter and risking a cycle--especially if you add to the bio load at the same time.

Good thought. I'm doing my best to avoid a big one by using all cured live rock (most from the 72), all the water from the 72, upgrading skimmers, and ditching the old sand bed and replacing. I guess there still may be a small cycle though. hmmm.

 

[atlweb]

I'd slowly add the fish based on aggression. Most aggressive last, biggest fish last. etc. Smallest and less territorial first.