Newbie stocking/tank size question

[miniflea84]

Now, when a certain amount of space is recommended for certain species of fish, is that absolute, or is it just a minimum amount to house that fish in? For example (and these numbers may be way way off as this is just off the top of my head) if a flame angelfish needs 30 gallons and a pair of ocellaris clowns needs 20 gallons, could you house the three fish in a single 30 gallon tank, or would the minimum be a 50 gallon tank?

Just as a little background, I've never had a marine tank but would absolutely love to get one at some point. I don't have space at the moment which is probably a good thing since it prevents me from running out and buying stuff before I know what to get. So I am in the planning/dreaming phase, trying to decide just how big to go.

 

[Tank2379]

I would say 3 would be good for your Tank. Since I have a 55G the most I can put in are 6. So if your saying two clowns and a Flame Angel I would say yes. Maybe some others might say not to. but will see what they say....

 

[melosu58]

It`s talking about the minimum for that individual fish. But at some time you`ll reach the maximum bio load for your tank. It really depends on what`s in the tank. Good question.