Aqueon 36 gal Bowfront

One sounds like aptasia that is an unwanted pest. Pictures would really help though.

 

They are in kind of an obscure part so pictures would be tough. and theres also these fat white tube things

 

PVC feather dusters I believe.

Forgive me if I have already given you these links.

LionfishLair.com - Hitchhiker Guide to your Aquarium
Live Rock Hitch Hikers

 

Helpful links! Thanks. I do think the worm type things are feather dusters after viewing the pictures, but the brown thing does not appear to be Aiptasia...

 

I tested my water (lots of nitrates, or one of the "trates" anyway...), did a 25% water change with RO saltwater from my LFS, and tested it again, and we concluded that the tank had cycled. I couldn't resist, I bought a little firefish he's acclimating now. I'll post pictures once he's settled in, probably tomorrow.

 

Firefish is in the tank! He's found a nice little hidey hole and keeps poking his head out. I've caught him out and about in the tank, but usually he darts back in when I walk by. Very excited! I had some shortcomings about buying livestock from Petco, but they redid the aquatic section by my house and the tanks are WAY cleaner and healthier, so I gave it a shot. No regrets yet!

 

I sure hope you're cycled Makes me nervous when you say high trates, one of the trates at least - if it's nitrites you're in trouble.

 

I'm fairly certain it was nitrates. The LFS guy said "so that means you're definitely cycled." Anyway, the little guy is swimming all over the tank, he's a really cool fish and looks real happy and healthy. I have some brine shrimp eggs, I was wondering if it'd be a good idea to put some in and see if a little food population takes off so he has some stuff to chase after?

 

As promised, here are a few pictures of my little guy. He's still doing terrific

 

Should I add the Royal Gramma next? I've read that you should add any shrimps and other fishes before adding the RG because it will harass later additions