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

Redcoat Squirrelfish

Long-Spined Pufferfish

Spotted Hawkfish

Valentini Puffer

Caribbean Sharpnose Puffer

Hawaiian Whitespotted Toby

Starry Pufferfish

White-Spotted Pufferfish

Sergeant Major

Blue Throat Triggerfish

Hawaiian Squirrelfish

Crown Squirrelfish

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...

Longnose Filefish

Longnose Hawkfish

Darkfin Soldierfish

Overview Found in the Indo-Pacific region. Known for their reddish coloration and deep body shape, typical of soldierfish. They have large eyes, adapted for nocturnal activity. Shadowfin soldierfish are often found in caves or under ledges. Feeding They are nocturnal...