
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
Spotfin Hogfish
Lyretail Grouper
One Spot Foxface Rabbitfish
Magenta Dottyback
Overview Native to the Western Pacific, commonly found inhabiting coral reefs and rocky crevices. Recognized by its striking magenta-purple coloration that can vary slightly in intensity. Known for its bold and territorial behavior, suitable for aquarists with some...
Bicolor Cleaner Wrasse
Blackeye Thicklip Wrasse
Bird Wrasse
Bluelined Hind
Herald’s Angelfish
Diana’s Hogfish
Yellowtail Coris Wrasse
Spotted Wrasse
Sixbar Wrasse
Magnificent Rabbitfish
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...
Phantom Bannerfish
Dusky Wrasse
Four-Stripe Damselfish
Coral Grouper
Coral Beauty Angelfish
Axilspot Hogfish
Clown Wrasse
Sergeant Major
Belted Wrasse
Orange-Spotted Spinefoot
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...
Masked Bannerfish
Checkerboard Wrasse
Humpback Grouper
Peacock Grouper
Split-Level Hogfish
Blue-Spotted Wrasse
Spanish Hogfish
Blue Throat Triggerfish
Foxface Rabbitfish
Coral Rabbitfish
Hawaiian Cleaner Wrasse
Overview Found in the Indo-Pacific region. Known for their role in cleaning other fish by removing parasites. They have a slender body and a distinctive swimming pattern. Cleaner wrasses establish cleaning stations on the reef. Feeding They are primarily carnivores....