What to put in the tank?!

Ok, some of you may know that I am just getting into the saltwater fish hobby. With that said, I am going through the process of trying to determine what equipment, fish, inverts, etc. I am going to want in the tank. I want to make sure that I can not only do what I want, but also afford it and make it an enjoyable living experience for everything in the tank.

I'm wondering a couple of things.

First, how many fish is too many if I am going to do a mixed fish/reef tank for an 85 gallon?

Second, should I try to make sure I have fish that cover all three layers of the tank? (Top, middle and bottom) I would like to have a couple of tangs, clowns, cardinals, a dottyback, a basslet, a goby or two and a mandarin. I know I won't have them all initially, just wondering if I'm aiming too high........

Any suggestions? Thanks!

 

That sounds about maxed out. maybe a couple smaller fish but that sounds good to me.

 

You do not have to have fish for every "level" of the tank/water. People do just to have a bit of variety.

I would go with one or two tangs, a dragon goby, a few blennies. maybe a pair of b&w clowns.