Vacation - What do I do with my fishies?

[rodstar]

So, I am finally going away to get a little R&R with the family. We are leaving on Sunday and will return Thursday night. I am planning my Sunday water change on Saturday night and then will feed them right before I leave Sunday and as soon as I return on Thursday night.

 

We have family coming over to take care of the cats and I would rather not have them touching the tank. Will the fish and corals last that long?

 

For reference, I have the following in my tank:

2 clowns

1 blue chromis

1 6-line

 

1 pep shrimp

1 skunk cleaner

 

1 crocea clam

1 bta

assorted zoos

gorgonia

various rics and shrooms

xenia

 

various snails

3 scarlet hermits

 

Thanks in advance!!!

[One Eyed Bunny]

You could have the visitor just add a small amount of food to the tank. I doubt it would dirty the water enough to cause any issues.

 

I know the damsel will last, but I'm unsure of the clownfish and wrasse.

[ramins]

They could last four days. As a matter fact, it is better to feed the fish every other day or every 3 days. Don't feed them everyday.

[rodstar]

Thanks for the help. I bought a pillbox that has 7 different compartments. maybe I will have my in-laws feed them on Tuesday only....

 

And I can't imagine feeding them every 3 days. They are ravenous as it is. And I always hear conflicting things. Some say feed 2x/day, some say every other day.

[svvad]

every 3 days is better... cheaper on food ... cleaner tank... better water... less algae.. yada yada yada.

[reefman5511]

Never, ever trust your fish to someone who doesn't know what they're doing. They will be fine for 4 days. I've gone a week with no problem. If you're really concerned, get yourself 1 of those automatic feeders.

[rodstar]

svvad,

 

I understand those benefits, but what about the fish themselves... Won't they eventually starve???

[Bobalouy]

They aren't hand fed in the wild.

 

Don't forget about water top off, thats more important.

[rodstar]

Good point Anthony !

 

As for top-off, I am not worried because it is a BioCube with a top on it. I do water changes every week and never have to top off in between. But, I do keep the water level very high in my tank, so maybe that is the reason.

 

D

[Bobalouy]

Interesting, I lost about a gallon a week on my NC.

[rodstar]

wow.... really? I am sure I lose some, but there is no way I lose a gallon in a week. I doubt if I lose more than 2 cups...