Popular Saltwater Fish Species for your Aquarium
Here are some of the most popular saltwater fish species that are commonly kept in aquariums, each with unique characteristics and care requirements.
A common rule of thumb for how many marine fish you can keep in an aquarium is to allow 1 inch of fish per gallon of water; however, this can vary depending on the specific fish species and their size, with reef tanks generally requiring even more space per fish due to their larger waste output and need for swimming room.
Ward’s Sleeper Goby
The Golden Head Sleeper Goby
Twin-Spot Goby
Tobacco Basslet
Yellowstripe Anthias
Overview Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found on coral-rich reef slopes and drop-offs. Recognizable by its vibrant purple body with a distinctive bright yellow stripe running along its dorsal region. A schooling species admired for its striking colors and active...
Azure Damselfish
Carberry’s Anthias
Sharknose Goby
Yellow Clown Goby
Barred Soapfish
Three-Spot Damselfish
Reticulated Damselfish
Yellow Watchman Goby
Fiji Blue Devil Damselfish
Talbot’s Damselfish
Yellowtail Blue Damselfish
Rainford’s Goby
Wheeler’s Shrimp Goby
Steinitz’s Shrimp Goby
Randall’s Shrimp Goby
Wide-Banded Shrimp Goby
Diamond Goby
Blackray Shrimp Goby
Fathead Sunburst Anthias
Purple Queen Anthias
Overview Native to the Indo-Pacific region, typically inhabiting outer reef slopes and deep coral reef environments. Characterized by its stunning lavender-purple coloration with subtle yellow accents on fins and face. Known for active schooling behavior and striking...
Bartlett’s Anthias
Overview Native to the Pacific Ocean, particularly common in coral reefs around the Marshall Islands and the Central Pacific. Features a striking coloration with vibrant yellow body, purplish-red upper half, and striking lavender highlights on fins. A schooling...
Goldbelly Damselfish
Overview Native to the Indo-Pacific, frequently found in shallow lagoons and coral-rich reefs. Characterized by its striking metallic blue body with a bright golden-yellow belly. Known for being hardy, active, and somewhat territorial; popular among marine hobbyists....
Allen’s Damselfish
Overview Native to the Indo-Pacific, often found in coral reefs and shallow lagoons. Distinctively bright metallic blue body with vibrant yellow anal and tail fins. Known for its active, playful behavior and striking appearance. Hardy and suitable for beginner and...
Decorated Goby
Curious Wormfish
Neon Goby
Whitetail Damselfish
Pink Speckled Shrimp Goby
Green Chromis
Black Bar Chromis
Blue Chromis
Black-Axil Chromis
Marine Betta
Orange Skunk Clownfish
Pink Skunk Clownfish
Percula Clownfish
Ocellaris Clownfish
Maldives Clownfish
Clarkii Clownfish
Sleeper Banded Goby
Periophthalma Shrimp Goby
Spotted shrimp goby
