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.
Barhead Spinefoot
Carberry’s Anthias
Three-Spot Damselfish
Yellowtail Blue Damselfish
One Spot Foxface Rabbitfish
Fathead Sunburst Anthias
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...
Four-Stripe Damselfish
Green Chromis
Bluelined Hind
Half Black Angelfish
Tobacco Basslet
White-streaked Grouper
Reticulated Damselfish
Sergeant Major
Magnificent Rabbitfish
Princess Parrotfish
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....
Whitetail Damselfish
Black Bar Chromis
Bicolor Parrotfish
Herald’s Angelfish
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...
Speckled Blue Grouper
Fiji Blue Devil Damselfish
Lyretail Grouper
Orange-Spotted Spinefoot
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...
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...
Humpback Grouper
Blue Chromis
Coral Grouper
Coral Beauty Angelfish
Azure Damselfish
Barred Soapfish
Talbot’s Damselfish
Foxface Rabbitfish
Coral Rabbitfish
Bicolor Anthias
Overview Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly inhabiting coral reefs and reef slopes. Known for its vibrant coloration with males showcasing a striking mix of pink and orange, while females exhibit a softer yellowish-orange color. A schooling species, prized for its...
Banded Pipefish
Messmate Pipefish
Black-Axil Chromis
