Newbie stocking question

[Myka]

Good on you for asking before purchasing (unlike the impulse buy of the Gudgeons)!

You are definitely being ambitious about your stocking plans, and I fear you are used to the stocking capacity of freshwater aquaria. It is easier to get away with overstocking in large tanks than it is in smaller tanks simple because the fish at least have more room to swim where small tanks leave little space after territories are claimed. I wouldn't put more than five or six 3" fish in a 33-gallon reef. If you stick with the smallest fish you could put more in.

I would suggest you stay away from the Dottyback/Gramma family of fish in a tank that size because they are boisterous fish. They do better in bigger tanks where they can't harass the occupants incessantly. I also don't think they would be good tankmates with the Gudgeons. I also think any type of Dwarf Angel would produce the same effect. If you must get a Dwarf Angel, I would consider the Cherub Angel the lesser of the evils and more likely to be a good resident. Keep in mind that many Dwarf Angels will pick at or even eat corals (LPS and Zoas are most at risk). You are right that a Dartfish would likely not get on well with the Gudgeons.

Ocellaris Clownfish would definitely be a good choice, possibly Percula or Darwins (black Ocellaris). These clowns stay smaller than other species and are less aggressive - particularly the orange Ocellaris (buy Snowflakes if you want something "different").

A shrimp/Goby combo would be a great choice, as would a Jawfish, a Cardinal (check out Orange Lined, Flame, Banggai, Pajama, Black), a small Blenny (Tailspot would be a great choice, Lawnmower a poor choice). Larger Blennies can be quite aggressive (Lawnmowers come to mind). Several of the different Gobies would co-exist well together, some do not, so ask specifics when/if that comes up. A Banded Possum Wrasse (there are 2 kinds) or Tanaka's Pygmy Wrasse would do well. Chalk Bass is another relatively peaceful fish.

One other thing, the hermits are likely to attack, kill, and eat the snails when they get hungry. They don't co-exist very well.