
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
Solar Fairy Wrasse
Threadfin Cardinalfish
Peacock Wrasse
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...
Radiant Wrasse
Marine Betta
Powder Blue Surgeonfish
Yellow Tang
Shortnose Unicornfish
Zigzag Wrasse
Redfin Fairy Wrasse
Purple Tang
Orbiculate Cardinalfish
Blue Tang
Yellow Coris Wrasse
Orange-Lined Cardinalfish
Powder Brown Surgeonfish
Tobacco Basslet
Fourline Wrasse
Tail-spot wrasse
Seale’s Cardinalfish
Brown Tang
Pajama Cardinalfish
Peacock Wrasse
Kole Tang
Indian Ocean Mimic Tang
Atlantic Blue Tang
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
Sixline Soapfish
Twospot Cardinalfish
Indian Ocean Sailfin Tang
Banggai Cardinalfish
Overview Endemic to the Banggai Islands of Indonesia, typically inhabiting shallow reefs and seagrass beds. Recognizable for its distinctive silver body, bold black vertical stripes, and white spots. Calm and peaceful nature, making it suitable for community reef...