How many fish

Question
Hi,
My question actually comes in 2 parts. I am new to salt water tanks and I currently have a 29 gal, fowlr setup.
Ammonia = 0
nitrite = 0
PH = 8.2
Temp = 80
Nitrate = between 10 & 20.
That's my first question. In SW tanks, are any levels of nitrate safe as in Fresh water, or should I do a water change?
Second question.
Since the tank is only about 3 weeks old, when and how many fish can I have. What fish are safe with Ocellaris Clowns? I was thinking more like cleaner shrimp and colorful bottom crawlers instead of more fish?
My buddy gave me 2 Ocellaris Clowns that are doing great, and there are hermit crabs in there also that came as hitch hikers on the live rock.
I have 28 lbs of live rock with 2 inches of live sand and a protein skimmer. 2 power heads also.
Thanks for the help!
Joe

Answer
Hello Joe,

I am surprised your water quality is as good as it is for only three weeks old... (this will lead into the second question)...

As tanks get older, the live rock and live sand grow, support more biological organisms... the more microscopic organisms the more livestock your system can safely handle...

When tanks are first started there is minimal or no organisms, so any waste created by fish or left over food turns into ammonia...

so, to finish your first question, on a fowlr tank, nitrates or of little concern...  they can be significantly higher then systems that will try to support corals and stuff...

so, no worries on the nitrate level.

the second question. . .   You can add many types of fish, and some you cant... some are aggressive and willeither eat or bother the clowns..  I cant possibly run down all the different possibilities thoug..

the species you suggest will be fine...I love clearner shrimp.. they will be nmore active at night and give you hours of enjoyment when the lights are off...

I tend to not suggest to get or have hermits as they are opportunistic eaters. meaning they will eat anything they can...  they will eat your snails, which are way more important then crabs.


I would also suggest sand sifting starfish in about two months to help keep the sand clean, along with a diamond or orange spot goby...  they too are hard workers...

anyways, if you think of more choices you want to know about, please let me know, or you can log onto www.liveaquaria.com.  they have some good info on species and what is and isnt compatible..

good luck

Bill