reintroduce clown?

[bugj51]

So awhile back I purchased 2 oce clowns at the same time. I noticed the larger one was really picking on the smaller one. I put the larger one in the sump and he's been there ever since. They were maybe together for 1 month, they've been apart maybe 5 months. Now they are both about the same size. Can I put these guys back together?

[FireWater]

If they are the same size you will more than likely have issues. One will try to become the dominant female.
Maybe some of the clown breeders on here can give you some advice.

[Sherita]

They will probably fight even worse being the same size. The way that particular species works, the female is the largest, and sometimes she will force the male (the smaller one) to show submission. That is probably what you were seeing at first, the establishing of dominance by the female. Now, unfortunately, since they are the same size, they will fight to find out who is dominant, and the winner will become the female (if not already female). I would be very careful introducing them again, it's possible that they could fight to the death since they are close to the same size.

Or, they might not fight at all. But not likely. The only question is how bad is the fighting going to be. You need to make sure that you will be home for the day when you put the clown back in the tank. Know where your net is and be ready to act. Keep a very close eye on them.

[bugj51]

I figured the initial fighting was the female establishing herself, but the smaller looked like he was taking a real beating. I suppose I should have let nature do its thing. I'll give it a try tomorrow, since I'll be home. Thanks for the advice. I may have an occe for sale

[ramsey]

I figured the initial fighting was the female establishing herself, but the smaller looked like he was taking a real beating.

Reminds me of my marriage. Haha