live rock and artificial rock

Question
I have a few artificial rock formations in my 26 gal aquarium and I was wonndering if I could add a few pieces of live rock for more natural caves/ crevices. Is it ok to mix real and fake. Also what does ocellaris clownfish breeding behvaior look like.

Answer
Good morning Jon,

Good question:

Regarding mixing live rock with artificial rock: yes, this is definitely okay. Artificial reef rock structures are commonly used in conjunction with real reef rock, including at large public aquariums.

Here is a reference web page on curing live rock, for future readers of this question: http://www.ocreef.com/curing_live_rock

Regarding ocellaris clownfish breeding behavior: in the beginning, younger species of ocellaris once matured, will start pairing off. This can initially take time to pair off, when groups of ocellaris are together, and often times with one of the two morphing into the proper gender needed to make a successful breeding pair. In conclusion, the couple will pair off, mate, and will be spending most of the day together, taking turn watching over their eggs.

If you are considering breeding, making sure to have a designated aquarium, with only the pair of ocellaris clownfish in it. You would want to make sure you have in place, the correct sponge style filtration to keep the newly hatched larvae from getting sucked up.

My most favorable moment regarding fish breeding, was watching a pair of Green Chromis Damsels mate. A very exciting dance and flirting process they put on... including continuously kissing each other.

I wish you the best of luck with all your future saltwater aquarium endeavors.

Sincerely,
David