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
Rectangle Triggerfish
White-streaked Grouper
Blue Throat Triggerfish
One Spot Foxface Rabbitfish
Hawaiian Squirrelfish
Picasso Triggerfish
Flame Hawkfish
Twospot Soldierfish
Overview Native to the Indo-Pacific region, often found in lagoons and seaward reefs. Recognized by its vibrant red or orange body, distinctive black tips on its dorsal fin, and large eyes. Nocturnal species, typically seeking shelter in caves or crevices during the...
Redbarred Hawkfish
Coral Grouper
Barhead Spinefoot
Zebra Dartfish
Speckled Blue Grouper
Lyretail Grouper
Magnificent Rabbitfish
Crown Squirrelfish
Blue Gudgeon
Overview Native to the Indo-Pacific region, frequently found over sand and rubble substrates near reefs. Distinctive slender body with a pale blue-green coloration and iridescent blue highlights along its sides. Known for peaceful and timid behavior, typically...
Firefish Goby
Overview Found in the Indo-Pacific region. Known for their striking appearance with elongated dorsal and caudal fin rays, and vibrant coloration, typically red, white, and yellow. They have a slender body and a peaceful demeanor. Magnificent dartfish are often seen...
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...
Coral Hawkfish
Peacock Grouper
Tobacco Basslet
Scissortail Dartfish
Overview Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly inhabiting reef slopes, lagoons, and sandy rubble areas. Recognizable by its slender body, pale bluish-grey coloration, and distinct black fins. Peaceful and shy nature, often observed hovering in open water above reefs or...
Spotted Hawkfish
Halfmoon Triggerfish
Orange-Spotted Spinefoot
Blackbelly Triggerfish
Longnose Filefish
Helfrich’s Firefish
Swallowtail Hawkfish
Falco Hawkfish
Marine Betta
Redcoat Squirrelfish
Violet Soldierfish
Queen Triggerfish
Foxface Rabbitfish
Coral Rabbitfish
Arabian Picasso Triggerfish
Longnose Hawkfish
Decorated Dartfish
Overview Found in the Indo-Pacific region. Known for their elegant appearance with elongated dorsal fin rays and vibrant coloration, often including shades of purple, red, and white. They have a slender body and a peaceful demeanor. Decorated dartfish are often seen...
Humpback Grouper
Bluelined Hind
