Coral Beauty......

laura · #1 (**permalink**) 11-13-2009, 09:23 AM

Hi, we added a coral beauty to our 75 G. tank 3 days ago. She has made herself a cave under some live rock and does not come out. She has taken a few bites of mysid shrimp but does not even acknowledge the seaweed in the clip that I hung for her. Only other tankmates are 2 clown fish , 2 cleaner shrimp, few snails, 1 crab. She does not appear to be in any distress at all. Just wondering how long she can go without eating, and if this is normal to hide. Wondering if any of you have experienced this , and how long do they usually hide!! Thanks so much!!

Pee-Wee · #2 (**permalink**) 11-13-2009, 09:42 AM

mine hid for about a week, when i first got it, but eventually it will be ruling the tank i promise

Piro · #3 (**permalink**) 11-13-2009, 09:48 AM

Do not worry just yet, three days is not very long. It may take a few weeks for the fish to settle down.

As far as starvation, if the fish was well fed at the shop, then it could be weeks before malnutrition would become a factor.

Stress is the biggest thing, don't go poking around and shoving food in the fish's cave - when it's hungry and feels safe, it will come out and eat.

ininerider · #4 (**permalink**) 11-15-2009, 01:29 PM

I had the same experience about ten years ago with my Coral Beauty. Hid for weeks...I guess the LR in the tank gave the fish plenty to nibble on. These are great fish and I agree that your fish will start feeling at home in several days. Just relax and sit back and watch as it becomes more at home...Good Luck...BTW my fish is still very happy and eats out of my hand...Give it time..