
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.
Sargassum Triggerfish
Teardrop Butterflyfish
Spotband Butterflyfish
Sergeant Major
Jewel Damselfish
Overview Found in the Indo-Pacific region, especially around coral reefs, lagoons, and reef flats. Displays an iridescent blue body with jewel-like spots, which become more pronounced under reef lighting. Territorial and bold, especially as it matures, making it...
Phantom Bannerfish
Big Longnose Butterflyfish
Redbarred Hawkfish
Pacific Double-Saddle Butterflyfish
Merten’s Butterflyfish
Burgess’ Butterflyfish
Peacock Grouper
Spotted Hawkfish
Tinker’s Butterflyfish
Raccoon Butterflyfish
Blue Throat Triggerfish
Longnose Hawkfish
Masked Bannerfish
Four-Stripe Damselfish
Coral Hawkfish
Golden Butterflyfish
Blackback Butterflyfish
Blacktail Butterflyfish
Half Black Angelfish
Pearlscale Butterflyfish
Mirror Butterflyfish
Saddleback Butterflyfish
Lyretail Grouper
Flashing Tilefish
Pennant Bannerfish
Swallowtail Hawkfish
Falco Hawkfish
Latticed Butterflyfish
Lined Butterflyfish
Bluelined Hind
Herald’s Angelfish
Vagabond Butterflyfish
Rainford’s Butterflyfish
Threadfin Butterflyfish
Lemon Damselfish
Overview Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found in coral reefs and shallow lagoons. Easily identifiable by its vibrant yellow body and occasionally subtle blue markings around its face and fins. Known for being hardy, active, and moderately territorial; suitable...