
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.
Sailfin Tang
Striated Wrasse
Overview Native to the Indo-Pacific region, typically inhabiting coral-rich reefs and rocky areas. Characterized by its slender, reddish body with horizontal white stripes and iridescent blue markings on the face and fins. Known for being shy and secretive, often seen...
Marcos’ Wrasse
Pyramid Butterflyfish
Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish
Brown Tang
Blue Tang
Yellow Coris Wrasse
Indian Ocean Mimic Tang
Atlantic Blue Tang
Yellow Tang
Shortnose Unicornfish
Singular Bannerfish
Zigzag Wrasse
Solar Fairy Wrasse
Indian Ocean Sailfin Tang
Peacock Wrasse
Kole Tang
Convict Tang
Achilles Tang
Tobacco Basslet
Fourline Wrasse
Red Sea bannerfish
Tail-spot wrasse
Redfin Fairy Wrasse
Peacock Wrasse
Cleaner Wrasse
Lubbock’s Fairy Wrasse
Powder Blue Surgeonfish
Sixline Wrasse
Overview Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found in coral reefs and rocky lagoons. Distinctive appearance with vibrant purple-blue body marked by six horizontal orange-red lines. Popular in aquariums for its active behavior and pest control, known to feed on small...
Purple Tilefish
Schooling Bannerfish
Sixline Soapfish
Purple Tang
Filamented Flasher Wrasse
Overview Native to the Western Pacific Ocean. Known for the elongated filaments on the dorsal fin of males, used in their flashing displays. Small and slender-bodied, with vibrant coloration that intensifies during courtship. Peaceful and active, preferring reef...