Two clownfish and two tangs in a reef aquarium
A reef aquarium showcasing a few fish, primarily tangs
Numerous fish within a reef aquarium including damselfish, chromis, anthias, tangs, wrasses, butterflyfish, clownfish, a dwarf angelfish, and a few other species
Numerous fish such as tangs, squirrelfish, a butterflyfish, a rabbitfish, a grouper, a school of monos, and other species in a FO aquarium

The following list of marine aquarium fish species commonly available in the aquarium trade is not a completely comprehensive list; certain rare specimens may be available commercially but not yet listed here. A brief section on each, with a link to the page about the particular species is provided along with references for further information.

Reef-safe fish do not consume corals or invertebrates, while fish categorized as not safe do. Fish labelled as "with caution" may have individuals within the species that could potentially eat invertebrates or cause damage to corals.

Angelfish (large)

These large fish are considered to be quite hardy, but because of their size may present a significant challenge to the keeper. They need huge aquariums, up to 180 gallons to house one for its entire lifespan.[1] Two angels might be kept in the same aquarium provided it is a large aquarium, they are properly acclimated as juveniles, and they have very different colouring and body shape.[2] However, because all Angelfish have essentially the same diet, mixing them is a feat that should be left to only advanced keepers. Most are not reef safe, and a potential owner should be aware that they need to have plenty of vegetable matter in their diet. They undergo major changes in colouration while maturing, and unless specified given descriptions are for adult specimens.[3][4][5]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Blue ring angelfish, annularis angelfish
Pomacanthus annularisNo30 cm (11.8 in)
Arabian angelfish, Asfur angelfish
Pomacanthus asfurNo40 cm (15.7 in)
Bellus angelfish
Genicanthus bellusYesLight blue all over. Exhibits strong sexual dimorphism: females have wide black bands, males' bands are orange.18 cm (7.1 in)[6]
Blue angelfish
Holacanthus bermudensisNoBlue Angelfish has an overall aqua hue with a yellow shimmer and yellow edges on the fins and scales. The Blue Angelfish does not have the striking blue crown or other blue highlights of the Queen Angelfish. This species has been known to reproduce with the Queen Angelfish, making a half breed that looks like a mixture between the two species.45 cm (17.7 in)[7]
Bluespotted angelfish
Chaetodontoplus caeruleopunctatusNo21 cm (8.3 in)
Blueface angelfish
Pomacanthus xanthometoponWith Caution40 cm (15.7 in)
Cortez angelfish
Pomacanthus zonipectusNoDarkly hued with yellow stripes.46 cm (18.1 in)[8]
Emperor angelfish
Pomacanthus imperatorNoJuveniles are black with blue-white spiraling; adults are blue with yellow stripes, accented with white and black and a blue mask. Will easily be the dominant angelfish if housed with other angels.40 cm (15.7 in)[9]
French angelfish
Pomacanthus paruNoJuveniles are black with 3 yellow vertically running stripes, may also display blue on pelvic fins. Adults lard black with white vertical stripes.41 cm (16.1 in)[10]
Gray angelfish
Pomacanthus arcuatusNoLight grey with dark spots and bluish/grey mask over face. Closely related to French Angelfish.60 cm (23.6 in)[11]
Griffis angelfish
Apolemichthys griffisiNoAn ashen white angel with thick black bands and spots, it is a rare find within the aquarium trade.25 cm (9.8 in)
Half-moon angelfish, Yellow bar angelfish
Pomacanthus maculosusNoBlue with yellow splotch-like marking on side.50 cm (19.7 in)[12]
Koran angelfish
Pomacanthus semicirculatusNoGrey towards the face, becoming a navy blue towards the caudal fin with striking iridescent blue accents throughout.40 cm (15.7 in)[13]
Majestic angelfish or blue girdled angelfish
Pomacanthus navarchusNoYellow dorsal and caudal fins connecting to "saddal" with dark blue dots. Dark blue underside and anal fin. Electric blue separating yellow and dark blue.30 cm (11.8 in)[14]
Passer angelfish or King angelfish
Holacanthus passerNoVery dark blue with yellow caudal fin and distinctive white stripe.36 cm (14.2 in)[15]
Personifer angelfish or Queensland yellowtail angelfish
Chaetodontoplus meridithiiNo37 cm (14.6 in)
Queen angelfish
Holacanthus ciliarisNoTan coloured with yellow caudal fin and neon blue outlined fins. This species has been known to reproduce with the Blue Angelfish, making a half breed that looks like a mixture between the two species.45 cm (17.7 in)[16]
Rock beauty
Holacanthus tricolorNo25 cm (9.8 in)
Royal angelfish
Pygoplites diacanthusNoOrange and blue striped with dark blue dorsal fin and lemon yellow caudal fin.25 cm (9.8 in)[17]
Scribbled angelfish
Chaetodontoplus duboulayiNo25 cm (9.8 in)
Japanese swallow angelfish
Genicanthus semifasciatusYesBlack and tan striped back with yellow blaze beginning at the mouth and tapering off towards the centre of the side, with light blueish grey underside. Has distinctively shaped tail resembling that of a swallow.21 cm (8.3 in)[18]
Yellowtail angelfish
Apolemichthys xanthurusNo15 cm (5.9 in)[19]

Angelfish (dwarf)

Although Dwarf Angelfish are smaller and generally more manageable than their larger counterparts, they still have some specific care requirements. They are omnivores, but plenty of vegetable matter, preferably in the form of macroalgae, should be provided for their grazing pleasure.[20] Their suitability for reef tanks is hotly debated,[2] so add at your own risk. Specimens that have been successfully maintained in reef aquaria include the Flame and Coral Beauty angels. However, for obvious reasons they should not be put into tanks with expensive decorative macroalgae.[21][22]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Barred angelfish
Centropyge multifasciataWith cautionWhite fish with vertical black stripes that change to yellow at the belly12 cm (4.7 in)[23]
Bicolor angelfish
Centropyge bicolorWith caution15 cm (5.9 in)
Blue Velvet AngelfishCentropyge deborae
Brazilian flameback angelfish
Centropyge aurantonotusWith caution8 cm (3.1 in)
Coral beauty angelfish
Centropyge bispinosaWith cautionReddish body with blue back and orange fins. A shy fish that prefers multiple hiding locations.10 cm (3.9 in)[24]
Cherubfish or Pygmy angelfish
Centropyge argiWith cautionBlue colored body with an orange yellow head.8 cm (3.1 in)[25]
Eibli angelfish
Centropyge eibliWith cautionTan coloured body with vertical brown stripes and large distinctive black splotch covering the back of the fish, including the caudal fin.15 cm (5.9 in)[26]
Flame angelfish
Centropyge loriculaYesVivid orange-red with vertical black stripes and blue patches toward the end of the dorsal and anal fins.15 cm (5.9 in)[27]
Pearlscale angelfish
Centropyge vrolikiWith cautionAnterior is gray to pearly white with orange accent around eye, posterior is deep black.12 cm (4.7 in)[28]
Herald's angelfish
Centropyge heraldiWith cautionCompletely lemon yellow, with a brown marking around the eye.10 cm (3.9 in)[29]
Keyhole angelfish
Centropyge tibicenNoCentropyge type species. Overall black with an elongate vertical black blotch on the middle of the upper sides. When small, mainly black with a white bar. Dorsal and anal fins with submarginal blue line; most of the pelvic and the anterior portion of the anal fin yellow. Caudal fin with submarginal blue line.19 cm (7.5 in)
Lemonpeel angelfish
Centropyge flavissimaWith cautionBright yellow with distinctive dark semicircle by operculum.14 cm (5.5 in)[30]
Multicolor angelfishCentropyge multicolorWith caution9 cm (3.5 in)
Orange-back angelfish
Centropyge acanthopsWith cautionDark blue with golden yellow blaze running from the face down the dorsal fin, with a colourless caudal fin.8 cm (3.1 in)[31]
Pacific pygmy angelfishCentropyge flavicaudaWith caution8 cm (3.1 in)[32]
Potter's angelfish
Centropyge potteriWith cautionSimilarly coloured to the Coral Beauty, but with a blue body and reddish fins.10 cm (3.9 in)[33]
Rusty angelfish
Centropyge ferrugataYesTan coloured body with dark spots and a reddish tint around the anal fin.10 cm (3.9 in)[34]
Venustus angelfish
Centropyge venustusWith caution12 cm

(4.7 in)

Anthias

Although Anthias resemble damsels in shape and size, the two should never be confused. Anthias (also known as "fairy basslets") are finicky and many starve to death in captivity. In the wild, they eat zooplankton, and will not accept anything else in the aquarium. They also need to be fed nearly constantly, three times a day at least. The best way to ensure the health and longevity of an Anthias is to attach a refugium where copepods can be grown to "drip" into the display tank. Unlike many other saltwater aquarium inhabitants, they can be kept in groups.[35]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Bartlett's anthias
Pseudanthias bartlettorumYesBack and face light yellow, underside pink with a swallowtail-shaped caudal fin.9 cm (3.5 in)
Bicolor anthias
Pseudanthias bicolorYesSimilarly shaped and coloured to Bartlett's Anthias, but with a slightly more rounded back.13 cm (5.1 in)
Cooper's anthias
Pseudanthias cooperiYesOrange back and finnage with white patch below the mouth running down toward the anal fin with pink sides.14 cm (5.5 in)
Diadem anthias
Pseudanthias parvirostrisYesPink fish with yellow streak on top of head running along the lateral line. Caudal fin is red with yellow tips.7 cm (2.8 in)
Orangehead anthiasPseudanthias heemstraiYesPink underside with orange back and mask, dark red splotch on caudal fin, along with iridescent blue anal and pelvic fins.13 cm (5.1 in)
Redbar anthiasPseudanthias rubrizonatusYesTannish-pink with a single vertical red stripe and a dorsal fin with the skin between the rays pulled back like on a lionfish.12 cm (4.7 in)
Lyretail anthias, Sea Goldie
Pseudanthias squamipinnisYesFemales are orange with lyre-shaped caudal fin. Males are fuchsia with red markings on fins15 cm (5.9 in)
Squareback anthias
Pseudanthias pleurotaeniaYesRed back and pink underside with distinctive blue square shaped marking and blue fins.20 cm (7.9 in)
Stocky anthias
Pseudanthias hypselosomaYesOrange back with cream colored underside. As its name suggests, slightly stockier than other Anthias.19 cm (7.5 in)
Threadfin anthias
Pseudanthias huchtiiYesOlive green with black caudal fin and red stripe running from the eye to the pectoral fin.12 cm (4.7 in)

Bass and groupers

In this exceedingly large group of fish, few are considered proper aquarium inhabitants, for various reasons including diet and size. Basses vary greatly from species to species. Appropriate research should be done before purchasing a specimen. Many unsuspecting hobbyists bring home cute little specimens of popular aquarium fish such as the lyretail grouper, only to realize several months later that they do not have the resources to care for a meter-long that may cost hundreds of dollars a month to feed.[36][37][38][39][40]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
African grouperCephalopholis taeniopsNo69 cm (27.2 in)
Vermillion seabass
Cephalopholis miniata50 cm (19.7 in)
Blacktip grouper
Epinephelus fasciatusNoThe tips of the spines of the dorsal fin are black, and it may have a dark red cap above the eyes. There is a variant with a uniformly pale body except for the frontal part.40 cm (15.7 in)
Blue and Yellow grouper
Epinephelus flavocaeruleusNo90.0 cm (35.4 in)
Blue dot grouper
Cephalopholis argusNoDeep black to tan fish with blue spots throughout.50 cm (19.7 in)
Blue line grouper
Cephalopholis formosaNoDark tan with horizontal blue stripes that are not particularly straight. The caudal fin has more of these stripes, and they radiate from the base of the fin out to the tips.34 cm (13.4 in)
Chalk bass
Serranus tortugarumYesBlue iridescent body with distinctive black topside that is interrupted by small vertical blue stripes.8 cm (3.1 in)
Coney grouper
Cephalopholis fulvaNo41 cm (16.1 in)
Golden grouperMycteroperca rosaceaNo86 cm (33.9 in)
Golden stripe soapfish
Grammistes sexlineatusNoChocolate brown with light yellow horizontal stripes. Similar in patterning to C. argus (with exception to the coloration).30 cm (11.8 in)
Harlequin bass
Serranus tigrinusYesVery striking black and white checkerboard pattern all over, with very long tapering nose.29 cm (11.4 in)
Leaflip grouper
Pogonoperca punctataNoSports a large, hinged mouth and is tan with little spots. Has brown triangle shaped markings down the spine.35 cm (13.8 in)
Marine beta
Calloplesiops altivelisYes15 cm (5.9 in)[41][42]
Pacific graysbyCephalopholis panamensisNo30 cm (11.8 in)
Panther grouper
Cromileptes altivelisNoGorgeous pure white fish with black spots and a distinctive "hump" on the head, leading to a popular common name, "Humpback Grouper".75 cm (29.5 in)
Painted comber
Serranus scribaNoLarge fish with classic Bass body, Silvery in colour with vertical tan stripes and a blue underside.36 cm (14.2 in)
Polleni grouperCephalopholis polleniNo43 cm (16.9 in)
Red flag grouper
Cephalopholis urodetaNoVery similar to C. miniatus, but the caudal fin is dark.28 cm (11.0 in)
Lyretail grouper
Variola loutiNoSilver back changing to red around the underside, darkening toward the caudal fin, which is lyre-shaped with neon green edging.80 cm (31.5 in)
Saddle grouper
Plectropomus laevisNo125 cm (49.2 in)
Spotted grouper
Epinephelus summanaNoDark black fish with many light green spots all over body, increasing in number toward the posterior.52 cm (20.5 in)
Strawberry grouperCephalopholis spiloparaeaNo30 cm (11.8 in)
V tail grouperCephalopholis urodelusNo28 cm (11.0 in)

Basslets and assessors

Basslets and Assessors are small, long bodied fish strongly resembling Anthias. Their care requirements, however, are closer to those of damsels. They should be kept individually, and generally not with other fish of similar shape and colour. Feeding is easy: they will generally eat any meaty foods offered. Good water quality should be maintained at all times.[43]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Black cap gramma
Gramma melacaraYesPurple with a black mask beginning at the mouth and ending at the base of the dorsal fin.6 cm (2.4 in)
Blue assessor
Assessor macneilliYesEntirely navy blue with white edging of the dorsal fin.7 cm (2.8 in)
Royal gramma
Gramma loretoYesPurple head and anterior, abruptly changing to yellow about halfway down the body. Has black marking through eye and another on the dorsal fin. Do not confuse with the Brazilian Gramma or the Bicolor Dottyback.5 cm (2.0 in)
Brazilian grammaGramma brasiliensisYesVery similar to the royal gramma, however the change from purple to yellow occurs farther down the body and the black markings are absent.6 cm (2.4 in)
Yellow assessorAssessor flavissimusYesBright lemon yellow with peach fringing of the dorsal fin and around the eye.7 cm (2.8 in)[44]

Batfish

Batfish are gorgeous and striking fish that are not common in aquaria for one major reason: they get huge. A two or three hundred gallon tank is needed for one, minimum, and larger is better. They start out as tiny, manageable-looking cuties, which often fools aquarists into purchasing them for their small aquariums. However they quickly grow to gargantuan proportions, and require large amounts of food as well as space, so beware. They are not reef safe and should be fed plenty of large meaty foods. Batfish change greatly as they grow, however the potential aquarist is most likely to see them in their juvenile form, so that is the description of the colouration here. They all have generally the same body shape: disk-like with tall dorsal and anal fins, similar to a Freshwater Angelfish.

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Orbiculate batfish
Platax orbicularisNoBrown with generally random black markings resembling a rotting leaf.50 cm (19.7 in)
Dusky batfish
Platax pinnatusNoDark black body completely edged by distinctive yellow and orange.45 cm (17.7 in)
Teira batfish
Platax teiraNoSilver with black fins and a black stripe across the face.70 cm (27.6 in)

Blennies and engineer gobies

Blennies are popular aquarium fish, and for good reason. Most of them are peaceful to other fish, while very aggressive to other blennies which has a similar shape. Some blennies are colorful, and many are downright helpful. For example, the aptly named Lawnmower Blenny will keep your green algae well trimmed and presentable. With the exception of Fang Blennies, Blennies are totally reef safe- in fact a reef environment is really best for them because they can be shy and the intricate rockwork of a reef provides ample hiding spaces. They are omnivores and should be fed a varied diet of frozen or live foods and plant matter. Blennies do not have teeth or functional jaw, so food must be small enough for them to swallow whole.
Blennies are often confused with Gobies, but there is an easy way to tell the difference. Gobies have two distinct dorsal fins, Blennies have a single dorsal fin that runs the length of their body. Also, Gobies' pelvic fins are fused to form a sucker, similar to Remoras.[45]

The engineer goby is a close relative of cichlids and leaf fishes, the juvenile can often be found in aquarium trade, while the adult is rare.

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Spinyhead blenny
Acanthemblemaria spinosaYesBrown checkered body with distinctive yellow frills on head.2 cm (0.8 in)
Bicolor blenny
Ecsenius bicolorYesCharacterized by the striking contrast of a blue head and upper torso followed by a yellow orange lower torso.11 cm (4.3 in)
Black combtooth blenny
Ecsenius namiyeiYes10 cm (3.9 in)
Blackline fang blennyMeiacanthus nigrolineatusNoYellow bodied with bright blue mask and dark black line running from the eye to the caudal fin.9 cm (3.5 in)
Black sailfin blennyAtrosalarias fuscusYes10 cm (3.9 in)
Blue & gold blennyEnchelyurus flavipesYes5 cm (2.0 in)
Bundoon blennyMeiacanthus bundoonNoBlack with lighter patch over caudal fin. Very distinctive swallowtail caudal fin.8 cm (3.1 in)
Canary fang blenny
Meiacanthus oualanensisYesSimilarly shaped to M. bundoon, but canary yellow.5 cm (2.0 in)
Diamond blenny
Malacoctenus boehlkeiYesGray with black splotches, and a yellow mask. Shaped more like hawkfish than a blenny.6.5 cm (2.6 in)
Ember blenny
Cirripectes stigmaticusNo12 cm (4.7 in)
Harptail blenny Meiacanthus mossambicus Yes Pale pinkish-grey body with jet-black dorsal and anal fins. Eyes are primarily white, sometimes seen with brown segmentation. 10cm

(3.9in)

Lawnmower blenny
Salarias fasciatusYesTan and brown striped and spotted with iridescence. Requires Mature Tank.14 cm (5.5 in)
Linear blenny
Ecsenius lineatusYes9 cm (3.5 in)
Midas blenny
Ecsenius midasYesAlthough often seen yellow, this fish has the ability to change its color to match the surroundings. It has a very distinctive swallowtail shaped caudal fin.13 cm (5.1 in)
Molly Miller blenny
Scartella cristataYesMottled tan, white, and black covering the body and fins.12 cm (4.7 in)
One spot blennyCrossosalarias macrospilusNo10 cm (3.9 in)
Red lip blenny
Ophioblennius atlanticusYesBlack to grayish yellow with red patch over mouth.19 cm (7.5 in)
Red Sea mimic blenny
Ecsenius gravieriSky blue anterior fading to yellow towards the tail, with a black stripe running the eye to the base of the caudal fin.8 cm (3.1 in)
Sailfin blenny
Emblemaria pandionisYesVery similar to Salarias fasciatus but slightly darker and with a much larger dorsal fin.5 cm (2.0 in)
Segmented sailfin blennySalarias segmentatusYes10 cm (3.9 in)
Starry blenny
Salarias ramosusYes14 cm (5.5 in)
Striped blenny
Meiacanthus grammistesYes12 cm (4.7 in)
Tail spot blenny
Ecsenius stigmaturaYesDrab tan all over with dark spot at the base of the caudal fin and a light yellow line through eye.6 cm (2.4 in)
Two-spot blennyEcsenius bimaculatusYesThe top half of this fish is black towards the front and fades to white closer to the tail. The bottom half is white with two distinctive black spots right under the pectoral fins.4.5 cm (1.8 in)
Engineer goby
Pholidichthys leucotaeniaYesNot actually a blenny but from closely related family Pholidichthys. Juvenile has black eel-shaped body with a distinctive white stripe running down the body. Adults are yellow and black striped.34 cm (13.4 in)

Boxfish and blowfish

Members of the family Tetraodontidae, Boxfish, Blowfish or Pufferfish and their cousins Cowfishes and Porcupinefishes can be very personable and quirky pets, for the prepared.
They are not thought of as an ordinary aquarium tank mate, but are quickly gaining popularity. They do pose a hazard in the community tank however. They are capable of releasing a very powerful toxin which can kill other fish and in some cases, the boxfish itself. They generally only use it when threatened or dying, but can become disturbed easily with aggressive tank mates or overcrowded aquarium. Generally they are reef safe, though they will pick at invertebrates if not fed well enough.
Many people think puffed up Pufferfish, like in the picture, are cute, but an owner should never subject their pet to this as they are often unable to expel the air should they be out of the water. To prevent this, never remove a puffer from the water.[46]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Golden puffer
Arothron meleagrisNo48 cm (18.9 in)
Hawaiian blue puffer
Canthigaster papuaNo10 cm (3.9 in)
Hawaiian saddle puffer
Canthigaster coronataNo14.0 cm (5.5 in)
Hawaiian spotted puffer
Canthigaster jactatorNo9 cm (3.5 in)
Helmet cowfish
Tetrosomus gibbosusCautionTan with dark speckles and brown spots at the base of the caudal fin.30 cm (11.8 in)
Immaculate puffer
Arothron immaculatusNo28 cm (11.0 in)
Longhorn cowfish
Lactoria cornutaCautionGrayish tan with very distinctive "horns" near the eyes and under the caudal fin.46 cm (18.1 in)
Scribbled boxfishOstracion solorensisCautionDark navy blue with iridescent "scribbling" and spots.12 cm (4.7 in)
Dogface pufferfish
Arothron nigropunctatusCautionTan with a brown mask over eyes and other over mouth. Also has yellow markings on the pectoral and dorsal fins.33 cm (13.0 in)
Map puffer
Arothron mappaNo65 cm (25.6 in)
Porcupine pufferfish
Diodon holocanthusNoTan with slightly darker spots throughout and very conspicuous spines that lay flat against the body. When puffed up, the spikes stand up and make the fish completely inedible.50 cm (19.7 in)
Spotfin porcupinefish
Diodon hystrixNoWhite and covered in small black spots.91 cm (35.8 in)
Sharpnose pufferfish
Canthigaster rostrataCautionCream, with reddish purple topside and underside, and yellow on the caudal fin.12 cm (4.7 in)
Star puffer
Arothron stellatusNo120 cm (47.2 in)
Stars and stripes puffer
Arothron hispidusNo50 cm (19.7 in)
Striped dogface puffer
Arothron manilensisNo31 cm (12.2 in)
Valentini pufferfish
Canthigaster valentiniCautionTan with giraffe-like spots and dark brown markings that resemble saddles over the back. Has distinctive bright green eyes.11 cm (4.3 in)
Whitebelly puffer
Canthigaster bennettiNo10 cm (3.9 in)
Yellow boxfish
Ostracion cubicusCautionUsually seen as a juvenile, bright yellow with little black spots. When it reaches maturity it is gray with yellow lines and pink lips.45 cm (17.7 in)

Butterflyfish

When properly cared for, Butterflyfish can make beautiful and distinctive additions to fish only marine aquariums. Specimens often grow to large sizes and are not well suited to smaller aquariums. Butterflyfish can be fussy and overparticular, but when fed a varied diet and kept in pristine conditions they will usually thrive. Some species in this family do not do well in captivity, and potential keepers must take care to purchase only those species that have a fighting chance. When selecting Butterflyfish especially, specimens presenting any sign or signs of mishandling are to be avoided.

The following species are relatively hardy and experienced aquarists should have no trouble with them, so long as they are diligent.[47]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Copperband butterflyfish
Chelmon rostratusCautionSilver with black edged gold stripes, a long nose, and a black eyespot on the dorsal fin.20 cm (7.9 in)
Schooling bannerfish
Heniochus diphreutesNoSometimes referred to as the "Poor Man's Moorish Idol" because of the resemblance to one. White and black striped with yellow caudal fin and a dorsal fin that forms a long, thin banner.21 cm (8.3 in)
Longnose butterflyfish
Forcipiger flavissimusNoFrom the pectoral fins forward, black above the eye and silver below, with an exceptionally mouth. Past the pectoral fins, bright yellow with an eyespot on the anal fin.22 cm (8.7 in)
Raccoon butterflyfish
Chaetodon lunulaNoVery distinctive and complexly colored. Is mostly yellow with a darker saddle and a black and white mask.20 cm (7.9 in)
Redback butterflyfish
Chaetodon paucifasciatusNoWhite with black stripes that form chevrons on the side and a bright red patch on the posterior.14 cm (5.5 in)
Merten's butterflyfish
Chaetodon mertensiiNoWhite with fuzzy black stripes and a yellow posterior. Also has a black line through the eye.12.5 cm (4.9 in)
Teardrop butterflyfish
Chaetodon unimaculatusNoCompletely yellow with the exception of black stripes at the base of the caudal fin and through the eye, and an eyespot directly below the dorsal fin.20 cm (7.9 in)
Latticed butterflyfish
Chaetodon rafflesiiNoVery similar to C. unimaculatus, but with scales that are brighter than the body, forming a lattice-like pattern, and lacking the eyespot.18 cm (7.1 in)
Pacific double saddle butterflyfish
Chaetodon ulietensisNoSilver with two dark saddles over the body (plus a dark mask) and yellow dorsal and caudal fins.15 cm (5.9 in)
Sickle butterflyfish
Chaetodon falculaNoOften confused with C. ulietensis, but easily distinguished. The saddles are wedge shaped rather than stripes and do not reach the underside. Overall more yellow coloring.20 cm (7.9 in)
Threadfin butterflyfish
Chaetodon aurigaNoWhite anterior with thin black stripes at 45 and 120 degree angles from the head. Posterior is yellow, but with a black wedge shape where the stripes meet the yellow coloring.23 cm (9.1 in)
Tinker's butterflyfish
Chaetodon tinkeriNoWhite with small black spots, a yellow mask, and a black dorsal fin.15 cm (5.9 in)
Masked butterflyfish
Chaetodon semilarvatusNoBright lemon yellow with subtle vertical orange stripes and a black splotch behind the eye.23 cm (9.1 in)
Reef butterflyfish
Chaetodon sedentariusYes15 cm

(5.9 in)

Four-eyed butterflyfish
Chaetodon capistratusNo15 cm

(5.9 in)

Banded butterflyfish
Chaetodon striatusNo16 cm

(6.3 in)

Saddleback butterflyfish
Chaetodon ephippiumCaution30 cm

(11.8 in)

Cardinalfish

One of the few groups of shoaling fish commonly available to marine aquarists, Cardinalfish are nocturnal and tend to be quite shy. They require meaty foods and will often not take prepared foods such as flakes and tablets. For the best chance of success, keep a wide variety of frozen foods on hand. In the event of a hunger strike, they will almost always take adult brine shrimp. As far as other care requirements they are similar to damsels: not picky. So long as they are properly acclimated, they tolerate a wide range of parameters. A marine aquarist should watch the ammonia/nitrite levels of the environment, as cardinalfish are particularly sensitive to these chemicals.[48]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Fragile cardinalfishApogon fragilisYes[49]:1335 cm (2.0 in)
Banggai cardinal
Pterapogon kauderniYesBlack and silver striped with very tall fins and many white spots. Wild populations have been decimated, consider captive bred specimens. Banggai Cardinalfish are mouthbrooders.8 cm (3.1 in)
Blackstripe cardinalfish
Apogon nigrofasciatusYesBody completely covered in horizontal yellow and black stripes, with red fins.10 cm (3.9 in)
Bluebarred cardinalfishApogon floresYes[49]:1335 cm (2.0 in)
Bluestreak cardinalfish
Apogon leptacanthusYes[49]:1336.5 cm (2.6 in)
Flamefish
Apogon maculatusYesBright red with black spots at the base of the caudal fin, under the second dorsal fin, and on the operculum.11 cm (4.3 in)
Frostfin cardinalfishApogon hoeveniYes[49]:1335 cm (2.0 in)
Gilbert's cardinalfishApogon gilbertiYes[49]:1335 cm (2.0 in)
Girdled cardinalfishArchamia zosterophoraYes[49]:1338 cm (3.1 in)
Orange-striped cardinalfish
Ostorhinchus cyanosomaYesLight yellow with iridescent yellow horizontal stripes.8 cm (3.1 in)
Orbic cardinalfish
Sphaeramia orbicularisYesA thin, dark vertical 'waistband' with scattered dark spots toward the tail.10 cm (3.9 in)
Pajama cardinalfish
Sphaeramia nematopteraYes, caution with small shrimp[49]:132This fish displays three distinct color bands: the first, stretching from the nose to base of the first dorsal fin, is a tannish peach. The second, a thin band which runs down the center of the fish, is chocolate brown, and the posterior of the fish is white with brown spots.8.5 cm (3.3 in)
Ochre-striped cardinalfishOstorhinchus compressusYesAlmost identical to A. nigrofasticus, but with blue eyes.12 cm (4.7 in)
Ringtailed cardinalfish
Ostorhinchus aureusYesYellow body with a black stripe (ring) at the base of the caudal fin and iridescent blue streaks across the eye.14.5 cm (5.7 in)

Chromis

Chromis are perhaps the ultimate reef fish. Generally peaceful, most species are easy to take care of and quite colorful. Like anthias, they will school, but in many cases this tendency disappears as they age. They are, nevertheless, at least ambivalent with their own species, as well as completely reef safe. Like Damsels and Anemonefish, their close cousins, Chromis are omnivores and will accept most foods offered. A flake staple is usually sufficient, but for best color and health supplement with frozen and live foods when possible.[50]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Ambon chromisChromis amboinensisYes[49]:1928 cm (3.1 in)
Barrier reef chromis
Chromis nitidaYes10 cm (3.9 in)
Black and gold chromis
Neoglyphidodon nigrorisYesMostly silver, but with a large patch of yellow around the caudal fin and a distinct black line on the operculum.13 cm (5.1 in)
Black bar chromisChromis retrofasciataYes[49]:191Yellowish with bright blue iridescent pelvic fins and a distinct black bar at the base of the caudal fin.5 cm (2.0 in).
Blue chromis
Chromis cyaneaYes[49]:188Bright blue all over, although lighter toward the front.13 cm (5.1 in)
Damselfish
Chromis chromisYesCompletely black. Despite the name, this is actually a chromis, in fact, it is the chromis.25 cm (9.8 in)
Green chromis
Chromis viridisYesGenerally bluish green, but some specimens may be spring green.8 cm (3.1 in)
Half and half chromis
Chromis iomelasYes[49]:190Completely black from the middle of the dorsal fin to the nose, completely white from the middle of the dorsal fin to the end of the caudal fin.9 cm (3.5 in)
Limbaughi chromisChromis limbaughiYesDark navy blue with bright yellow spot that covers the dorsal fin and much of the posterior.10 cm (3.9 in)
Lined chromisChromis lineataYes[49]:1925 cm (2.0 in)
Paletail chromisChromis xanthuraYes[49]:19215 cm (5.9 in)
Black-axil chromis
Chromis atripectoralisYes12 cm

(14.7 in)

Spiny chromis
Acanthochromis polyacanthusYesDark chocolate brown, slightly lighter around the pectoral fins.14 cm (5.5 in)
Sunshine chromisChromis insolatusYes[49]:189Rather drab tannish-orange throughout.16 cm (6.3 in)
Yellowspotted chromis
Chromis flavomaculataYes[49]:19215 cm (5.9 in)
Black and white chromis
Chromis margaritiferYesSimilar to half and half chromis, but there is more black.3 in (7.6 cm)

Clownfish

Clownfish, more technically known as Anemonefish, are the classic aquarium fish. Both hardy and attractive, they are perhaps best known for their symbiotic relationship with Sea Anemones, a relative of coral. In the wild, Anemonefish are always found with a host, leading many potential keepers to believe that an anemone is necessary to keep them. Anemonefish are easy to keep, but their cnidarian counterparts are inordinately finicky and need high light levels, and luckily Anemonefish will thrive without them. Aquarists often find that Anemonefish will host in other things, from corals and Feather Duster Worms to powerheads and other equipment. Anemonefish care is identical to that of Damselfish, as they are actually very closely related.[51][52]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Cinnamon anemonefish
Amphiprion melanopusYesDark orange body becoming black towards the caudal fin, with a bright white stripe running from the front of the dorsal fin to the pectoral fins and golden colored fins.12 cm (4.7 in)
Clarkii anemonefish
Amphiprion clarkiiYesBlack or dark brown with bright yellow finnage and two thick white stripes running perpendicular to the body.15 cm (5.9 in)
Ocellaris
Amphiprion ocellarisYesBright orange or yellow body with white stripes. Fins are orange, rimmed with black. A. ocellaris from northern Australia are black.11 cm (4.3 in)
Maroon clownfish
Premnas biaculeatusYes but aggressiveMaroon to bright red with three very thin white stripes.17 cm (6.7 in)
True Percula
Amphiprion perculaYesNearly identical to A. ocellaris, but the white stripes are edged with black.11 cm (4.3 in)
Pink skunk anemonefish
Amphiprion perideraionYesPink to orange body with one white stripe over the operculum and another running from the tip of the snout, along the back to the dorsal fin. All fins are white.10 cm (3.9 in)
Tomato clownfish
Amphiprion frenatusYesBright red with a single white stripe running from the front of the dorsal fin to the bottom of the head.14 cm (5.5 in)
Saddleback anemonefish
Amphiprion polymnusYesSimilar to A. ocellaris and percula, but the second stripe does not extend the full with of the body and instead resembles a saddle.13 cm (5.1 in)
Sebae anemonefish
Amphiprion sebaeYesBlack or dark brown body from above the pectoral fin, yellow below. Has two white stripes, the second resembling that of A. polymnus.16 cm (6.3 in)

Damselfish

All Damselfish can be considered reef-safe, sometimes excluding larger, more aggressive Dascyllus varieties. Some Damselfish will host in anemones like clownfish. Most Damselfish are aggressive and difficult to catch once you put them in an aquarium.

Damselfish change gender as they grow larger and older. Small damselfish are ungendered. Eventually, they become males if no males prevent them from doing so. One or sometimes two males live with a female and guard over the eggs. Females are the largest fish and dominant over the males and juveniles. They will not allow other females into an area they have claimed as their territory without a fight. They may not allow new males or juveniles, either. Aggression increases with each change.[51][53][54]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Ambon damsel
Pomacentrus amboinensisYes[49]:21610 cm (3.9 in)
Azure damsel
Chrysiptera hemicyaneaYesA beautiful fish with neon blue on its body and a gold underside and caudal fin. Easy to care for and does best on a good diet. Fairly aggressive so choose tankmates carefully.10 cm (3.9 in)
Black and gold damsel
Neoglyphidodon nigrorisYes13 cm (5.1 in)
Blackmargined damselPomacentrus nigromarginatusYes[49]:2169 cm (3.5 in)
Blue damsel, Orangetail damsel
Chrysiptera cyaneaYesAn orange tail indicates breeding success. The males have orange on their tails while the females do not. This fish is hardy and aggressive.8.5 cm (3.3 in)
Blue and gold damsel
Pomacentrus coelestisYes[49]:2159 cm (3.5 in)
Blue velvet damsel
Paraglyphidodon oxyodonYes15 cm (5.9 in)
Blueback damselPomacentrus simsiangYes[49]:2169 cm (3.5 in)
Blueline demoiselle, Yellowfin demoiselleChrysiptera caeruleolineataYes[49]:2026 cm (2.4 in)
Bluefin damsel
Neoglyphidodon melasYes18 cm (7.1 in)
Caerulean damsel
Pomacentrus caeruleusYes[49]:2158 cm (3.1 in)
Canary deep water damselChrysiptera galbaYes9 cm (3.5 in)
Cloudy damsel
Dascyllus carneusYes7 cm (2.8 in)
Cross' damselNeoglyphidodon crossiYes[49]:20213 cm (5.1 in)
Domino damsel
Dascyllus trimaculatusYesalso known as the three spot damsel, this fish is easy to care for, but is also very aggressive. The fish is black except for three distinct white spots that fade as the fish ages.14 cm (5.5 in)
Fiji blue devil damsel
Chrysiptera taupouYesThis striking blue damsel is one of the most popular beginner fish. Like other damsels, it is very hardy, and very aggressive when mature.8 cm (3.1 in)
Four stripe damsel
Dascyllus melanurusYesThe four stripe damsel is a perfect beginner marine fish as it is very hardy. This fish is highly territorial and is best suited for a semi-aggressive to aggressive tank.10 cm (3.9 in)
Garibaldi damsel
Hypsypops rubicundaYesThese are temperate fish and require cooler water. They are much larger than most other damsels.30 cm (11.8 in)
Honey head damselDischistodus prosopotaeniaYes17 cm (6.7 in)
Hawaiian Dascyllus
Dascyllus albisellaYes12.5 cm (4.9 in)
Jewel damsel
Microspathodon chrysurusYesAmong the largest and most aggressive Damsels20 cm (7.9 in)
King demoiselle
Chrysiptera rexYes[49]:1987 cm (2.8 in)
Lemon damsel
Pomacentrus moluccensisYes9 cm (3.5 in)
Longfin gregory
Stegastes diencaeusCaution[49]:216Turns brown, and becomes highly territorial as it ages12.5 cm (4.9 in)
Marginated damsel
Dascyllus marginatusYesThe marginated damsel is noted for blue fins as well as the yellow head and white body. This fish is hardy like most damsels and is also highly aggressive when mature.6 cm (2.4 in)
Neon damselPomacentrus alleniYes6 cm (2.4 in)
Ocellate damsel
Pomacentrus vaiuliYes9 cm (3.5 in)
Pavo damsel
Pomacentrus pavoYes[49]:21511 cm (4.3 in)
Pink Smith damsel
Pomacentrus smithiYes7 cm (2.8 in)
Rolland's demoiselleChrysiptera rollandiYes[49]:2026 cm (2.4 in)
Sergeant major damsel
Abudefduf saxatilisYes15 cm (5.9 in)
Speckled damsel
Pomacentrus bankanensisYes[49]:2169 cm (3.5 in)
Springer's damsel
Chrysiptera springeriYes5.5 cm (2.2 in)
Stark's damsel
Chrysiptera starckiYes7 cm (2.8 in)
Talbots damsel
Chrysiptera talbotiYesThis damselfish is somewhat a little more delicate than other. It does best in small groups in large tanks with good water quality and an SG of 1.026. Feed on a good diet for best results. Fairly peaceful.8 cm (3.1 in)
Three stripe damsel
Dascyllus aruanusYesHighly aggressive and territorial. Will harass fish many times its size. Best kept in an aggressive/semi-aggressive tank.10 cm (3.9 in)
Three Spot damsel
Stegastes planifronsYes13 cm (5.1 in)
Tuxedo damsel
Chrysiptera tricinctaYes6 cm (2.4 in)
Two stripe damsel
Dascyllus reticulatusYesthe two stripe damsel is a very hardy fish. This fish is perfect for the beginner marine aquarist, as it can tolerate substandard water quality. This fish is highly aggressive, and requires many hiding places.10 cm (3.9 in)
Yellow damsel
Amblyglyphidodon aureusYes13 cm (5.1 in)
Yellow threespot Dascyllus
Dascyllus auripinnisYes[49]:20514.5 cm (5.7 in)
Yellowbelly damsel
Pomacentrus auriventrisYes5.5 cm (2.2 in)
Yellowtail Dascyllus
Dascyllus flavicaudusYes12 cm (4.7 in)
Yellowtail damsel
Chrysiptera parasemaYesThe yellowtail damsel possess an all blue body with a striking yellow tail. This damsel is a good beginner fish as it is very hardy and can tolerate substandard water quality. This damsel is also less aggressive than some other damsel species.8 cm (3.1 in)
Yellowtail demoiselle
Neopomacentrus azysronYes7.5 cm (3.0 in)

Dartfish

Most should be kept as pairs or small groups where all individuals are added at once.[55][56]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Blue gudgeon dartfish
Ptereleotris hanaeYes13 cm (5.1 in)
Fire fish
Nemateleotris magnificaYes9 cm (3.5 in)
Purple fire fish
Nemateleotris decoraYes9 cm (3.5 in)
Scissortail dartfish
Ptereleotris evidesYes14 cm (5.5 in)
Zebra barred dartfish
Ptereleotris zebraYes10 cm (3.9 in)

Dragonets

Mandarinfish (Synchiropus splendidus)

Dragonets are often mis-categorized as gobies or blennies by fish sellers. They are bottom-dwelling fish that constantly hunt tiny invertebrates for food. Most starve to death in a marine aquarium unless you provide a refugium or place for the invertebrates to reproduce safely without any fish being able to reach them.[57][58]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Mandarinfish
Synchiropus splendidusYesA brightly colored member of the dragonet family. Eats only copepods and will die in captivity without an adequate supply, which can only be had in very large, well established reef tanks6 cm (2.4 in)[59]
Starry dragonetSynchiropus stellatusYesAlso known as red scooter blenny though not a true blenny. Will often only eat live copepods and amphipods.12 cm (4.7 in)
Ocellated dragonet
Synchiropus ocellatusYesAlso known as scooter blenny though not a true blenny. Will often only eat live copepods and amphipods.8 cm (3.1 in)
Spotted mandarin
Synchiropus picturatusYesOften only eats live copepods and amphipods.10 cm (3.9 in)

Eels

Most eels are easily kept in a large aquarium, although several species such as the blue ribbon eel should usually be avoided. With any moray eel care must be taken to secure the lid as one of the most common causes of death is escaping from the tank, and onto the floor.[60][61]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Banded snake eel
Myrichthys colubrinusNo97 cm (38.2 in)
Banded eel
Echidna polyzonaNo69 cm (27.2 in)
Black edge moray eel
Gymnothorax saxicolaNo60 cm (23.6 in)
Blue ribbon eel, black ribbon eelRhinomuraena quaesitaNo130 cm (51.2 in)
Chainlink moray eel
Echidna catenataNoCan be kept with fish too small to swallow165 cm (65.0 in)
Dragon moray eel
Enchelycore pardalisNoA fish eater that will eat anything it can fit in its mouth. When available is typically quite expensive[62]92 cm (36.2 in)
Golden dwarf eelGymnothorax melatremusYesRarely available, among the smallest of the moray eels26 cm (10.2 in)
Golden moray eel
Gymnothorax miliarisMay eat fish and shrimpThese fish should only be kept in fish-only tanks as any small invertebrates will be looked on as food. Keep with fish large enough not to be eaten. Feed on a diet of whitefish, cockles, cod roe, haddock and frozen foods.70.0 cm (27.6 in)
Green moray eel
Gymnothorax funebrisNoRequires a 180-gallon tank with tight fitting lid. Compatible with rays, sharks, and other large fish.250 cm (98.4 in)
Jeweled moray eel
Muraena lentiginosaNo61 cm (24.0 in)
Kidako moray eel
Gymnothorax kidakoNo91 cm (35.8 in)
Peppered moray
Gymnothorax pictaNo135 cm (53.1 in)
Snowflake eel
Echidna nebulosaMay eat shrimp if underfedA pebble-tooth moray that generally eats crustaceans and similar. Safer in reef aquariums than other species but be prepared to remove it in case it starts to eat desired invertebrates.100 cm (39.4 in)
Spotted garden-eelHeteroconger hassiWith CautionNEEDS a very deep substrate (8 inches) and only eats plankton, when housing multiple make sure that there is enough space for each eels to be far enough away from each other40 cm (15.7 in)
Spotted Snake eel
Myrichthys maculosusNoRequires at least six in of substrate100 cm (39.4 in)
Tessalata eel, or laced moray
Gymnothorax favagineusNo300 cm (118.1 in)
Yellowhead moray eel
Gymnothorax fimbriatusNo80 cm (31.5 in)
Yellow mouth moray eel
Gymnothorax nudivomerNo178 cm (70.1 in)
Whitemouth moray eel
Gymnothorax meleagrisWith Caution120 cm (47.2 in)
Zebra moray
Gymnomuraena zebraNoOne of the easier moray eels to keep, is usually safe with most fish but will eat most invertebrates.150 cm (59.1 in)

Filefish

Less often kept than their relatives the triggerfish and puffers, there are many filefish that make good aquarium residents, and a few that require specialized diets, making it hard to sustain them in an aquarium.[63][64]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Clown filefish
Cantherhines dumeriliCaution38 cm (15.0 in)
Colored filefishPervagor melanocephalusCaution15 cm (5.9 in)
Fantail orange filefishPervagor spilosomaNo18 cm (7.1 in)
Horseshoe filefish
Meuschenia hippocrepisNo51 cm (20.1 in)
Japanese filefish
Paramonacanthus japonicusNo13 cm (5.1 in)
Mimic filefish
Paraluteres prionurusNo11 cm (4.3 in)
Orange spotted filefish
Oxymonacanthus longirostrisNo13 cm (5.1 in)
Tassle filefish
Chaetodermis penicilligerusCaution30 cm (11.8 in)

Flatfish

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Care Level Description Max size
Peacock flounder
Bothus lunatusNoModerate46 cm (18.1 in)
Flowery (Indo-Pacific peacock) flounder
Bothus mancuswith cautionModerate45 cm (17.7 in)
Banded sole
Soleichthys heterorhinosWill eat shrimp and other invertebrates, will not harm coral[49]:413Moderate[49]:41318 cm (7.1 in)

Frogfish

A type of Anglerfish, Frogfish are ambush predators with huge mouths. They are capable of eating fish up to twice their length so care should be taken in choosing tank mates.[65]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Longlure frogfish
Antennarius multiocellatusNo20 cm

(7.9 in)

Giant anglerfish
Antennarius commersonNo38 cm (15.0 in)
Sargassum frogfish
Histrio histrioNo20 cm (7.9 in)
Striated frogfish
Antennarius striatusNo15 cm (5.9 in)
Wartskin frogfish
Antennarius maculatusNoHas the ability to change color to match its surrounding.10 cm (3.9 in)

Goatfish

While not as common a choice for aquariums as many other species, they are typically hardy and brightly colored[66]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Bicolor goatfish
Parupeneus barberinoidesWith Caution25 cm (9.8 in)
Goldsaddle goatfish
Parupeneus cyclostomusWith Caution51 cm (20.1 in)
Manybar goatfish
Parupeneus multifasciatusWith Caution30 cm (11.8 in)
Yellow back goatfish
Parupeneus barberinusWith Caution41 cm (16.1 in)

Gobies and clingfishes

Are typically hardy and do not harm invertebrates which makes them a good choice of fish for a reef tank.[67][68]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Black barred convict gobyPriolepis nocturnaYes4 cm (1.6 in)
Black clown gobyGobiodon acicularisMostly; can destroy unhealthy Acropora by laying its eggs in the coral's tissueSimilar to Yellow clown goby, but black
Bluespotted watchman gobyCryptocentrus pavoninoidesYes12 cm (4.7 in)
Catalina goby
Lythrypnus dalliYesA cold water species that doesn't live long at reef temperatures.5 cm (2.0 in)
Cave transparent goby
Coryphopterus glaucofraenumYes8 cm (3.1 in)
Citron clown goby
Gobiodon citrinusMostly; can destroy unhealthy Acropora by laying its eggs in the coral's tissue8 cm (3.1 in)
Court jester goby
Amblygobius rainfordi6 cm (2.4 in)
Diagonal bar prawn goby
Amblyeleotris diagonalisYes8 cm (3.1 in)
Diamond watchman goby
Valenciennea puellarisYesBurrow and sift sand constantly; very good algae eaters20 cm (7.9 in)
Dracula gobyStonogobiops draculaYes8 cm (3.1 in)
Gold neon eviota gobyEviota pellucidaYes3 cm (1.2 in)
Green banded goby
Elacatinus multifasciatusYesSmall burrowing goby with green vertical stripes3.5 cm (1.4 in)
Green clown gobyGobiodon atrangulatusYes4 cm (1.6 in)
Hector's goby
Amblygobius hectoriYes8 cm (3.1 in)
Hi fin red banded goby
Stonogobiops nematodesYes5 cm (2.0 in)
Neon goby
Elacatinus oceanopsYesA Caribbean cleaner species that sometimes eats larger parasites from other fish.
Orange marked gobyAmblygobius decussatusYes8 cm (3.1 in)
Orange spotted goby
Amblyeleotris guttataYes9 cm (3.5 in)
Orange stripe prawn goby
Amblyeleotris randalliYes9 cm (3.5 in)
Pinkspotted shrimp goby
Gobius melanopusMay eat ornamental shrimpWhite fish with pink bands around the body and pink spots on face and fins. One of the most handsome members of the group.15 cm (5.9 in)
Pinkbar gobyCryptocentrus auroraYes10 cm (3.9 in)
Red head goby
Elacatinus puncticulatusYesA small goby that can clean like the neon goby but is easily frightened. Often said to 'disappear' in a larger tank, as it never swims out into view.5 cm (2.0 in)
Red striped goby
Trimma canaYes3 cm (1.2 in)
Sleeper banded goby
Amblygobius phalaenaYes15 cm (5.9 in)
Sleeper blue dot goby
Valenciennea sexguttataYes13 cm (5.1 in)
Sleeper gold head goby
Valenciennea strigataYes13 cm (5.1 in)
Sleeper railway glider gobyValenciennea helsdingeniiYes15 cm (5.9 in)
Sleeper striped gobyValenciennea longipinnisYes15 cm (5.9 in)
Steinitz goby
Amblyeleotris steinitziYes8 cm (3.1 in)
Tangaroa goby
Ctenogobiops tangaroaiYes5 cm (2.0 in)
Tiger watchman goby
Valenciennea wardiiYes12 cm (4.7 in)
Two spot goby
Signigobius biocellatusYes8 cm (3.1 in)
Violet goby
Gobioides broussonnetiiNoAlso a freshwater and brackish water fish and often sold as Dragon Fish or Dragon Goby21"
Wheeler's watchman goby
Amblyeleotris wheeleriYes8 cm (3.1 in)
Yellow watchman goby
Cryptocentrus cinctusYesA species of "watchman" or "shrimp" goby that can form a symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimp7 cm (2.8 in)
Yasha goby
Stonogobiops yashaYesA species of "watchman" or "shrimp" goby that will form a symbiotic relationship with the red and white banded pistol shrimp, Alpheus randalli.6 cm (2.4 in)
Yellow clown goby
Gobiodon okinawaeYesSmall yellow fish that likes branching corals3.5 cm (1.4 in)
Yellow priolepis gobyPriolepis aureoviridisYes6 cm (2.4 in)
Yellow stripe clingfish
Diademichthys lineatusYes5 cm (2.0 in)
Flaming Prawn Goby
Discordipinna griessingeri Yes A very small goby species with bright colors and a large dorsal fin. Hides in crevices and holes during the day and is nocturnal. 1.8 cm (0.7in)

Grunts

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Crescent banded grunt
Terapon jarbuaNo
Dogfish prientalis
Plectorhinchus lineatusNo86 cm (33.9 in)
Oriental sweetlips
Plectorhinchus orientalisNo84 cm (33.1 in)
Painted sweetlips
Plectorhinchus picusNo84 cm (33.1 in)
Porkfish
Anisotremus virginicusNo41 cm (16.1 in)
Spotted sweetlips
Plectorhinchus chaetodonoidesNo74 cm (29.1 in)
Striped sweetlipsPlectorhinchus diagrammusNo51 cm (20.1 in)
Twostriped sweetlipsPlectorhinchus albovittatusNo99 cm (39.0 in)

Hamlet

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Barred hamlet
Hypoplectrus puellaNo15 cm (5.9 in)
Black hamlet
Hypoplectrus nigricansNo15 cm (5.9 in)
Blue hamlet
Hypoplectrus gemmaNot with shrimp13 cm (5.1 in)
Butter hamlet
Hypoplectrus unicolorNot with shrimp13 cm (5.1 in)
Golden hamletHypoplectrus gummiguttaNot with shrimp
Indigo hamlet
Hypoplectrus indigo14 cm (5.5 in)
Shy hamlet
Hypoplectrus guttavariusNot with shrimp13 cm (5.1 in)

Hawkfish

Attractive and relatively small, Hawkfish make excellent additions to fish only or FOWLR aquariums. With extreme caution taken, they could be kept in reef aquariums, but because of their propensity to eat small ornamental shrimps and other mobile invertebrates (usually leaving sessile invertebrates alone) they are not considered reef safe. Lacking a swim bladder, Hawkfish can often be found resting in crevices of rocks or among the branches of corals or gorgonians. Hawkfish are easy to care for and not picky at all about water quality. A varied diet, including spirulina and small meaty foods like Mysis is recommended.[69]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Arc eye hawkfish
Paracirrhites arcatusCaution; will eat shrimp[49]:127Brown to yellow body with reddish dorsal fin, distinctive white caudal fin, and small semicircular marking behind eye.20 cm (7.9 in)
Blood red hawkfishCirrhitichthys fasciatusCaution; will eat shrimp[49]:12312.7 cm (5.0 in)
Coral hawkfish
Cirrhitichthys oxycephalusCaution; may eat small shrimp[49]:1228.5 cm (3.3 in)
Falco's hawkfish
Cirrhitichthys falcoCaution; may eat small shrimp[49]:1227 cm (2.8 in)
Flame hawkfish
Neocirrhitus armatusCaution; may eat small shrimp[49]:125Striking red body with black on fin tips and yellow lips.9 cm (3.5 in)
Freckled hawkfish
Paracirrhites forsteriCaution; will eat shrimp[49]:12822.5 cm (8.9 in)
Golden hawkfishParacirrhites xanthusCaution; will eat shrimp[49]:12812 cm (4.7 in)
Longnose hawkfish
Oxycirrhites typusCaution; may eat small shrimp[49]:126White with red lattice-like markings resembling a grid. Nose is elongated and tissue between the spines of the dorsal fin is missing.13 cm (5.1 in)
Lyretail hawkfishCirrhitichthys polyactisCaution; may eat small shrimp[49]:12414 cm (5.5 in)
Redspotted hawkfish
Amblycirrhitus pinosCaution; may eat small shrimp[49]:1209.5 cm (3.7 in)
Spotted hawkfish
Cirrhitichthys aprinusCaution; may eat small shrimp[49]:122Bright red with distinctive diamond shaped markings down back, becoming darker towards the topside of body.12.5 cm (4.9 in)
Whitespot hawkfishParacirrhites hemistictusCaution; will eat shrimp[49]:12829 cm (11.4 in)
Yellow hawkfish
Cirrhitichthys aureusCaution; may eat small shrimp[49]:1227 cm (2.8 in)

Hogfish

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Coral hogfish
Bodianus mesothoraxNo20 cm (7.9 in)
Cuban hogfish
Bodianus pulchellusCaution28.5 cm (11.2 in)
Hawaiian hogfish
Bodianus bilunulatusCaution55 cm (21.7 in)
Red diana hogfish
Bodianus dianaNo60 cm (23.6 in)
Spanish hogfish
Bodianus rufusNo40 cm (15.7 in)
Twin spot hogfish
Bodianus bimaculatusNo10 cm (3.9 in)

Idols

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Moorish idol
Zanclus cornutusWith Caution23 cm (9.1 in)

Jacks

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Pilot fish
Naucrates ductor ?Because they live in the open ocean, they are rare in the aquarium trade.[70] They host sharks, rays, and sea turtles[71] and eat food scraps, ectoparasites,[71] and possibly the feces of their host.[70] Juvenile Golden trevally are occasionally sold as Pilot fish.[70] In the picture, the Pilot fish are hosting an Oceanic whitetip shark.70 cm (27.6 in)

[72]

Golden trevally
Gnathanodon speciosusNo
Indian threadfin
Alectis indicusNo165 cm (65.0 in)
Threadfin lookdown
Selene vomerNo48 cm (18.9 in)

Jawfish

Jawfish are burrowers and require a sandy substrate of sufficient depth.[73]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Black cap jawfish
Opistognathus lonchurusAlmost alwaysRequires a 30-gallon tank and 3 inches (7.6 cm) substrate. Tank should remain tightly lidded. May eat small shrimp.10 cm (3.9 in)
Blue dot jawfishOpistognathus rosenblattiYes9 cm (3.5 in)
Dusky jawfish
Opistognathus whitehurstiiYesRequires a 30-gallon tank and 3 inches (7.6 cm) sand substrate. Tank should remain tightly lidded.14 cm (5.5 in)
Yellowhead jawfish
Opistognathus aurifronsYesRequires a 30-gallon tank and 5–7 inches (13–18 cm) soft substrate. Tank should remain tightly lidded.10 cm (3.9 in)

Lionfish

"Lionfish" specifically refer to the genus Pterois within the family Scorpaenidae. They have venomous spines and should be treated with caution.[74] Other species within Scorpaenidae but outside Pterois may also have "lionfish" in their common names. Feeder goldfish are not the proper nutrition for a lion fish.

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Antenneta lionfish
Pterois antennataCaution20 cm (7.9 in)
Blackfoot lionfish
Parapterois heteruraCaution23.0 cm (9.1 in)
Devil lionfish
Pterois mombasaeCaution20 cm (7.9 in)
Fu Man Chu lionfish
Dendrochirus biocellatusCaution13.0 cm (5.1 in)[75]
Fuzzy dwarf lionfish
Dendrochirus brachypterusCautionCarnivore; Males 6< stripes on pectoral fin femals >618 cm (7.1 in)
Green lionfish
Dendrochirus barberiCaution16.5 cm (6.5 in)
Radiata lionfish
Pterois radiata24 cm (9.4 in)
Russell's lionfishPterois russelii30 cm (11.8 in)
Volitan lionfish
Pterois volitansCautionSemi-aggressive; carnivore43 cm (16.9 in)
Zebra lionfish
Dendrochirus zebraCaution25 cm (9.8 in)

Parrotfish

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Bicolor parrotfish
Cetoscarus bicolorNo76 cm (29.9 in)
Princess parrotfish
Scarus taeniopterusNo25 cm (9.8 in)

Pipefish

Pipefish are relatives of seahorses and require a similar level of care. They should only be bought by experienced aquarium owners. Captive bred specimens are sometimes available, and are significantly more likely to survive.[76]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Banded pipefish
Doryrhamphus dactyliophorusYes20 cm (7.9 in)
Dragonface pipefish
Corythoichthys haematopterusYes18 cm (7.1 in)
Janss' pipefishDoryrhamphus janssiYes20 cm (7.9 in)
Yellow multibanded pipefish
Doryrhamphus pessuliferusYes18 cm (7.1 in)

Pseudochromidae

Usually only a single specimen can be kept in an aquarium. Sometimes multiple specimens can be kept in larger aquariums, but usually this requires them to be added at the same time or they will be too territorial.[77]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Allen's dottybackManonichthys alleniMay eat shrimps[49]:10612 cm (4.7 in)
Australian multicolor pseudochromisOgilbyina novaehollandiaeMay eat shrimps10 cm (3.9 in)
Bicolor pseudochromis
Pseudochromis paccagnellaeMay eat shrimpsResembles royal gramma in coloration. The bicolor pseudochromis is semi-aggressive and will defend its territory against fish several times its size. This fish is fairly hardy, and is a good beginner fish.6 cm (2.4 in)
Blue flavivertex pseudochromis
Pseudochromis flavivertexMay eat shrimpsCaptive bred specimens are sometimes available8 cm (3.1 in)
Bluelined dottyback
Pseudochromis cyanotaeniaMay eat shrimps[49]:1066.1 cm (2.4 in)
Brown dottyback or yellow pseudochromisPseudochromis aureusMay eat shrimps10 cm (3.9 in)
Cherry dottybackPholidochromis cerasinaMay eat shrimps[49]:967.9 cm (3.1 in)
Dilectus dottybackPseudochromis dilectusMay eat shrimps
Dusky dottyback
Pseudochromis fuscusMay eat shrimps10 cm (3.9 in)
Elongate dottybackPseudochromis elongatusMay eat shrimps[49]:1076.4 cm (2.5 in)
Firetail dottybackPseudochromis flammicaudaMay eat shrimps[49]:1075.6 cm (2.2 in)
Fridmani pseudochromis or orchid dottyback
Pseudochromis fridmaniMay eat shrimpsCommunity fish does well in most aquariums. is not nearly as aggressive as other dottybacks.8 cm (3.1 in)
Longfin dottybackManonichthys polynemusMay eat shrimps[49]:10612 cm (4.7 in)
Lyretail dottybackPseudochromis steeneiMay eat shrimps12 cm (4.7 in)
Neon pseudochromis, Arabian dottyback or neon dottyback
Pseudochromis aldabraensisMay eat shrimpsCaptive bred specimens are sometimes available10 cm (3.9 in)
Oblique-lined dottyback
Cypho purpurascensMay eat shrimps[49]:917.4 cm (2.9 in)
Orangetail dottybackPseudochromis coccinicaudaMay eat shrimps[49]:1025.8 cm (2.3 in)
Purple stripe pseudochromis or diadema basslet
Pseudochromis diademaMay eat shrimps6 cm (2.4 in)
Red dottyback
Labracinus cyclophthalmusWith CautionLarge and aggressive for a dottyback22 cm (8.7 in)
Sailfin pseudochromisPseudochromis veliferusMay eat shrimps12 cm (4.7 in)
Splendid pseudochromis
Pseudochromis splendensMay eat shrimps13 cm (5.1 in)
Springeri pseudochromis
Pseudochromis springeriMay eat shrimpsCaptive bred species are sometimes available5 cm (2.0 in)
Striped dottyback
Pseudochromis sankeyiMay eat shrimpsCaptive bred specimens are sometimes available8 cm (3.1 in)
Strawberry pseudochromis or purple pseudochromis
Pseudochromis porphyreusMay eat shrimpsA generally hardy fish, resembles the orchid dottyback, in that the body is a solid purple (sometimes pink), but is missing the black line/marking through the eye characteristic of orchids. This fish semi-aggressive in a home aquarium.6 cm (2.4 in)
Twolined dottybackPseudochromis bitaeniatusMay eat shrimps[49]:1016.9 cm (2.7 in)
Carpet eel-blenny
Congrogadus subducenswith cautionDespite being eel-like in appearance, Carpet eel-blennies are part of the family pseudochromidae.45 cm (17.7 in)

Rabbitfish and Foxfaces

Less commonly kept than some other species, many still make hardy and colorful aquarium residents.[78][79]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Bicolor Foxface
Siganus uspiWith Caution24 cm (9.4 in)
Blue-Lined Rabbitfish
Siganus doliatusWith Caution25 cm (9.8 in)[80]
Foxface
Siganus vulpinusthey have poisonous spines23 cm (9.1 in)
Magnificent foxface
Siganus magnificus24 cm (9.4 in)
One Spot Foxface
Siganus unimaculatusWith Caution18 cm (7.1 in)
Yellow Blotch Rabbitfish
Siganus guttatusWith Caution42 cm (16.5 in)

Rays

Most rays have a venomous spine near the base of the tail. Care must be taken to avoid this animal when performing tank maintenance and during capture.

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Round stingray
Urobatis halleriNoRequires a minimum 180 gallon aquarium. Recently purchased individuals can be startled easily by quick movements and loud noises, but they will become quite tame after spending a while in captivity. Unhealthy individuals will become a light grey color and their markings will fade.[70] Occasionally called the Cortez ray and thus misidentified as Urobatis maculatus.[81]58 cm (22.8 in)[82]
Cortez round stingray
Urobatis maculatusNoRequires a minimum 180 gallon aquarium and is hardy and attains a small size[70] although rarely available. May be misidentified with Urobatis halleri as that species is occasionally called the Cortez ray.[81]42 cm (16.5 in)[83]
Bullseye round stingray
Urobatis concentricusNoRequires a minimum 180 gallon aquarium. An occasionally available. A hardy species.[70]47.5 cm (18.7 in)[84]
Leopard round stingray
Urobatis pardalisNoProbably is a hardy species.[85]46.2 cm (18.2 in)[86]
Yellow stingray
Urobatis jamaicensisNoRequires a minimum 180 gallon aquarium and readily acclimates to suitable captive environments. It is also readily available in the aquarium trade and will eat any small fish that it can catch.[70]76 cm (29.9 in)[87]
Chilean round ray
Urotrygon chilensisNoRequires a minimum 180 gallon aquarium.[88] It is small and well suited for captivity.[89]41.9 cm (16.5 in)[90]
Bluespotted ribbontail ray
Taeniura lymmaNoRequires a minimum 260 gallon aquarium. It is notorious for doing terribly in aquarium confines. Many individuals never eat and others may die or stop feeding for no apparent reason. Force-feeding shows promise with this species.[70] Not to confused with the Bluespotted stingray Neotrygon kuhlii.35 cm (13.8 in)[91]
Bluespotted stingray
Neotrygon kuhliiNoRequires a minimum 260 gallon aquarium and is quite hardy, however it should not be disturbed as it acclimates to aquarium life (which takes around 2–3 days). Provide it with a 5 cm (2 in) deep fine sand bed. Do not confuse this species with the much less hardy Bluespotted ribbontail ray Taeniura lymma.[70]70 cm (27.6 in)[92]
Southern stingray
Hypanus americanusNoRequires a minimum 4,200 gallon aquarium as this ray grows to a very large size. It is quite hardy, yet it will devour any fish or invertebrate it can capture.[70]200 cm (78.7 in)[93]
Atlantic stingray
Hypanus sabinusNoRequires a minimum 135 gallon aquarium. Is relatively small yet may or may not easily adapt to life in an aquarium. It is best kept in saltwater or brackish systems although they can survive in freshwater.[70]61 cm (24.0 in)[94]
Bluntnose Stingray
Hypanus sayNoRequires a minimum 560 gallon aquarium. Well suited to captive life.[70]100 cm (39.4 in)[95]
Reticulated whiptail ray
Himantura uarnakNoDue to its massive proportions, this occasionally available ray should be avoided.[96]200 cm (78.7 in)[97]
Red stingray
Hemitrygon akajeiNoRequires a water temperature of in between 15 °C (59.0 °F) and 25 °C (77.0 °F).[98]200 cm (78.7 in)[99]
Cowtail stingray
Pastinachus sephenNoLike other Whiptail stingrays, Pastinachus sephen should be provided with an aquarium containing a sand bed and little aquascaping.[70]183 cm (72.0 in)[100]
Common stingaree
Trygonoptera testaceaNoSeems to be well suited to captive life.[70]47 cm (18.5 in)[101]
Striped stingaree
Trygonoptera ovalisNo?Seems to be well suited to captive life although it should be kept at cool temperatures.[70]61 cm (24.0 in)[102]
Spotted stingaree
Urolophus gigasNoSeems to be well suited to captive life.[70]70 cm (27.6 in)[103]
Shovelnose guitarfish
Pseudobatos productusNoRequires a minimum 825 gallon aquarium with a 7 cm (2.7 in) deep sand bed and no rockwork. May live for 8 to 10 years in an aquarium.[70]119 cm (46.9 in)[104]
Atlantic guitarfish
Pseudobatos lentiginosusNoRequires a minimum 200 gallon aquarium preferably with no aquascaping. Uncommon in the aquarium trade.[70]76 cm (29.9 in)[105]
Speckled guitarfishPseudobatos glaucostigmusNoLike other guitarfish, it should be kept in an aquarium with a sand bed, much open swimming area, and little rockwork.[70]89 cm (35.0 in)[106]
Eastern shovelnose ray
Aptychotrema rostrataNoLike other guitarfish, it should be kept in an aquarium with a sand bed, much open swimming area, and little rockwork.[70]100 cm (39.4 in)[107]
Giant shovelnose ray
Glaucostegus typusNoLike other guitarfish, it should be kept in an aquarium with a sand bed, much open swimming area, and little rockwork.[70]270 cm (106.3 in)[108]
Bowmouth guitarfish
Rhina ancylostomaNoLike other guitarfish, it should be kept in an aquarium with a sand bed, much open swimming area, and little rockwork.[70] Also called the Shark ray and the Mud skate.[109]300 cm (118.1 in)[110]
Eastern fiddler ray
Trygonorrhina fasciataNoRequires a minimum 560 gallon aquarium. It is durable but it may have trouble feeding with more agile bony fish tankmates.[70]126 cm (49.6 in).[111]
Thornback ray
Platyrhinoidis triseriataNoRequires a minimum 360 gallon aquarium without any aquascaping. It may consume benthic fishes and its thorns are tangled in nets easily.[70]91 cm (35.8 in)[112]
Shortnose guitarfish
Zapteryx brevirostrisNoRequires a minimum 200 gallon aquarium with little aquascaping and preferably a sand bed. Given such an environment, it will readily adapt to captive life. It can create a cave by lifting the center of its body off the ground to lure in potential prey.[70]59.3 cm (23.3 in)[113]
Banded guitarfishZapteryx exasperataNoRequires a minimum 300 gallon aquarium with a sand bed, much open swimming area, and little rockwork, and a ledge under which to hide under. Under such conditions, it is somewhat hardy. It is rarely encountered in the aquarium trade.[70]97 cm (38.2 in)[114]
Southern banded guitarfish
Zapteryx xysterNoIs rarely available. Like other guitarfish, it should be kept in an aquarium with a sand bed, much open swimming area, and little rockwork.[70]78 cm (30.7 in)[115]
Leopard torpedo ray
Torpedo pantheraNoRequires a minimum 180 gallon aquarium with a thick sand bed and little to no decoration. Like other species in the genus Torpedo, Large individuals should be carefully handled as they are capable of shocking their owners. This ray should be kept alone.[70]100 cm (39.4 in)[116]
Marbled electric ray
Torpedo marmorataNoIt is relatively hardy although it usually will only target moving food. Like other species in the genus Torpedo, Large individuals should be carefully handled as they are capable of shocking their owners. It should also be kept in an aquarium with a thick sand bed and little to no decoration.[70] Not to be confused with the Marbled electric ray (Torpedo sinuspersici).100 cm (39.4 in)[117]
Marbled electric ray
Torpedo sinuspersiciNoOccasionally available to European hobbyists.[118] It is relatively hardy although it usually will only target moving food. Like other species in the genus Torpedo, Large individuals should be carefully handled as they are capable of shocking their owners. It should also be kept in an aquarium with a thick sand bed and little to no decoration.[70] Not to be confused with the Marbled electric ray (Torpedo marmorata).130 cm (51.2 in)[119]
Bullseye electric ray
Diplobatis ommataNoRequires a minimum 40 gallon aquarium and is hard to feed. Like the Lesser electric ray, it can be sustained if fed live food including small grass shrimp and annelid worms and should also be provided with a sand bed 6 cm (2.3 in) deep. Also like the Lesser electric ray, it may shock other tankmates, yet it can be kept with others of its own kind. It is rarely encountered in the aquarium trade.[70]25 cm (9.8 in)[120]
Lesser electric ray
Narcine bancroftiiNoRequires a minimum 70 gallon aquarium. Like the Bullseye electric ray, it can be kept successfully if fed live food such as annelid worms and provided with a layer of sand 6 cm (2.3 in) deep. This ray may shock tankmates although they can be kept with other Lesser electric rays.[70]100 cm (39.4 in)[121]
Brown numbfish
Narcine brunneaNoLike other rays in the genus Narcine, it is difficult to feed (should be fed annelid worms) and should not be kept with rough surfaced rocks. It can be kept with others of its own kind.[70]22 cm (8.7 in)[122]
Unknown electric rayNarcine barinnusNoLike other rays in the genus Narcine, it is difficult to feed (should be fed annelid worms) and should not be kept with rough surfaced rocks. It can be kept with others of its own kind.[70] ?
Elat electric rayHeteronarce bentuviaiNo?[123]Also known as the Eilat Sleeper Ray.[124]17.6 cm (6.9 in)[123]
Spiny butterfly ray
Gymnura altavelaNoRequires a minimum 8,750 gallon aquarium. Like most butterfly rays, it usually does not do well in aquarium confines as it is often hard to feed (thus force feeding shows promise with this species). Also like most butterfly rays, it is an active ray that requires much swimming space like some active sharks. It is rarely available.[70]400 cm (157.5 in)[125]
Smooth butterfly ray
Gymnura micruraNoLike most butterfly rays, it usually does not do well in aquarium confines as it is often hard to feed (thus force feeding shows promise with this species). Also like most butterfly rays, it is an active ray that requires much swimming space like some active sharks. It is rarely available.[70]137 cm (53.9 in)[126]
California butterfly ray
Gymnura marmorataNoLike most butterfly rays, it usually does not do well in aquarium confines as it is often hard to feed (thus force feeding shows promise with this species). Also like most butterfly rays, it is an active ray that requires much swimming space like some active sharks.[70]100 cm (39.4 in)[127]
Bat ray
Myliobatis californicaNoRequires a minimum 4,850 gallon aquarium and if given the space, does quite successfully. Unfortunately, they host large amounts of parasites, requiring quarantine and treatments. May jump out of an open aquarium.[70]180 cm (70.9 in)[128]
Bullnose eagle ray
Myliobatis freminvilleiNoRequires a large system as it is quite large and active.[70]100 cm (39.4 in)[129]
Southern eagle ray
Myliobatis goodeiNoRequires a large system as it is quite large and active.[70]125 cm (49.2 in)[130]
Spotted eagle ray
Aetobatus narinariNoRequires a covered, large system as it is quite large, active, and is capable of leaping out of the water. It can be difficult to feed and is very sensitive to trichlorfon.[70]330 cm (129.9 in)[131]
Cownose ray
Rhinoptera bonasusNoRequires a large system in which to live in although it does not need to be deep. Is a schooling fish so keeping several of these rays is recommended.[96] It is also quite active.[70]213 cm (83.9 in)[132]

Scorpionfish

Because they are relatively inactive fishes, most species can be kept in smaller aquariums than other equally large fish, and 30 gallon tanks are not unusual. Because they are capable of eating fish that are surprisingly large, but will often be picked at by fish that eat invertebrates a species tank is often set up for them. Some fish will never accept anything but live food, typically these specimens are fed on gut packed guppies, mollies, or ghost shrimp. Similarly to the lionfish, care should be taken when handling these fish as they are also venomous.[133][134]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Ambon scorpionfish
Pteroidichthys amboinensisNot with shrimp or small fish12 cm (4.7 in)[49]:46
Decoy scorpionfishIracundus signiferNot with shrimp or small fish13 cm (5.1 in)[49]:48
Eschmeyer's scorpionfish
Rhinopias eschmeyeriNot with shrimp or small fish19 cm (7.5 in)[49]:46
Flasher scorpionfishScorpaenopsis macrochirNot with shrimp or small fish13 cm (5.1 in)[49]:48
Lacey scorpionfish
Rhinopias aphanesNot with shrimp or small fish24 cm (9.4 in)[49]:46
Leaf scorpionfish
Taenianotus triacanthusWith Caution10 cm (3.9 in)[135]
Mozambique scorpionfishParascorpaena mossambicaNot with shrimp or small fish10 cm (3.9 in)[49]:48
Papuan scorpionfish
Scorpaenopsis papuensisNot with shrimp or small fish20 cm (7.9 in)[49]:48
Poss's scorpionfishScorpaenopsis possiNot with shrimp or small fish19.3 cm (7.6 in)[49]:48
Rogue scorpionAmblyapistus taenianotusWith Caution10 cm (3.9 in)
Sea goblin
Inimicus didactylusNot with shrimp or small fish18 cm (7.1 in)[136]
Stone fish
Synanceja verrucosaNoHighly venomous! Have caused human deaths40 cm (15.7 in)
Weedy scorpionfish
Rhinopias frondosaNot with shrimp or small fish23 cm (9.1 in)[49]:46
Yellowspotted scorpionfishSebastapistes cyanostigmaNot with shrimp or small fish8 cm (3.1 in)[49]:48

Seahorses

It takes a special aquarist to maintain these delicate beauties. A potential keeper must be dedicated and willing to throw artistic creativity to the winds- as what seahorses need is not always beautiful. They require taller tanks, live/frozen food, and many hitching posts, as well as very peaceful tankmates. In fact, beginners would be well-advised not to mix seahorses with any other species until they have more experience. Good tank mates would include other peaceful, microfauna consuming species such as pipefish and dragonets.
Seahorses found in stores are generally Captive Bred, but occasionally one might find a wild caught (WC) specimen. WC Seahorses should only be purchased by seahorse experts who are going to breed them, as they tend to be finicky and most are endangered in the wild.
One of the advantages of Seahorses is that many species stay small and can (in fact, some should) be kept in smaller tanks, making them ideal for aquarists who are pressed for space or money.[137][138]

Seahorses are among the few popular marine aquarium species that can be temperate. Species vary in their temperature requirement, so here an extra category has been added.
TR=Tropical ST=Sub-Tropical TM=Temperate

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Temp. Description Max size
Brazilian seahorse
Hippocampus reidiCautionSTUsually bright yellow, with a particularly long snout.17 cm (6.7 in)
Spotted seahorse
Hippocampus kudaCautionTRGenerally yellow, but can also range from tan to dark black.30 cm (11.8 in)
Great seahorse
Hippocampus kelloggiCautionSTLight tan, with some darker specimens.28 cm (11.0 in)
Pot-bellied seahorse
Hippocampus abdominalisCautionTMLight-colored with dark spots and a large abdomen.25 cm (9.8 in)
Pygmy seahorse
Hippocampus bargibantiCautionTRWhite with pink (occasionally yellow) knobby protrusions.2.4 cm (0.9 in)
Short-snouted seahorse
Hippocampus brevicepsCautionTMGrayish to tan with short snout and a spiny head.15 cm (5.9 in)
Tiger tail seahorseHippocampus comesCautionTRVarying colors with dark striped tail.18 cm (7.1 in)
Lined Seahorse
Hippocampus erectusCautionSTDark colored with lighter belly and white ridges.19 cm (7.5 in)
White's Seahorse
Hippocampus whiteiCautionTMFuller bodied with a comparatively larger head.13 cm (5.1 in)
Dwarf Seahorse
Hippocampus zosteraeCautionSTSimilar to H. reidi but much smaller.5 cm (2.0 in)
Thorny Seahorse
Hippocampus histrixCautionTRVarying colors with distinctive spines all over body.17 cm (6.7 in)

Squirrelfish

Typically are hardy fish that can be kept with a wide variety of tankmates.[139][140]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Big eye soldierfish
Myripristis vittataWith Caution25 cm (9.8 in)
Blackbar soldierfish
Myripristis jacobusWith Caution25 cm (9.8 in)
Glass eye squirrelfish
Heteropriacanthus cruentatusWith Caution30 cm (11.8 in)
Popeye catalufa soldierfish
Pristigenys serrulaWith Caution34 cm (13.4 in)
Scarlet squirrelfishSargocentron tiereWith Caution33 cm (13.0 in)
Striped squirrelfish
Sargocentron xantherythrumWith Caution18 cm (7.1 in)

Sharks

Many sharks will outgrow most home aquariums[141][142] and/or adapt poorly to captivity.[70] However, numerous coastal and coral reef sharks do well in good aquarium surroundings[70] although you should have experience in keeping other saltwater fish before trying to keep sharks as they are more difficult to care for.[143] In a shark aquarium setup (preferably an oval-shaped tank for more active species), there should be much surface area (wide and long tanks with good gas exchange/more room for biological filtration and room for sharks to swim, glide, and turn with little constraint opposed to tall, thin tanks), fine substrate (coarse substrate can irritate the shark's underside), little décor and rockwork (which should be secure) for swimming space (sharks in the orders Orectolobiformes and Heterodontiformes however, feel more secure in tanks with caves and ledges), excellent filtration (sharks are messy eaters and need good water conditions), protected heaters, filter intakes, etc. by surrounding them in polyurethane foam barriers (unprotected equipment can be dangerous to active sharks), and a secure canopy (sharks can jump out of the water)[70] as well as, strong, steady, linear water flow (10+ x the volume of the aquarium per hour) moving in a gyre circling the aquarium, dissolved oxygen levels of 7-8ppm (slightly more if you are using ozone), low light levels, and no stray electrical currents/amounts of metal in the aquarium water.[118] Many sharks feed on invertebrates to a great degree along with fish (even ones that are larger than themselves), and although they don't eat coral, they can knock them over and rest on them. There are also many fish and invertebrates that can harm/irritate sharks such as Scorpionfish, Butterflyfish, Angelfish (large), Filefish, Triggerfish, Pufferfish, Suckerfish (over time), Porcupinefish, certain other sharks, large crabs, Hermit crabs, sea anemones, and stinging corals. Also, sharks need iodine which can be provided through regular water changes or supplements for sharks (iodine deficiencies and possibly the buildup of nitrates can result in goiter), and feeding frequency is species-specific.[70] Copper treatments should not be administered to most shark species.[70]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Whitespotted bamboo shark
Chiloscyllium plagiosumNoRequires a minimum 160 gallon aquarium.[70] Does well in home aquaria and will mate/reproduce in larger aquariums.[70] Sometimes called the Marbled Bamboo Cat Shark.[144]83 cm (32.7 in)

[145]

Brownbanded bamboo shark
Chiloscyllium punctatumNoRequires a minimum 170 gallon aquarium.[70] One of the most common sharks in the North American aquarium trade and does well in home aquaria as it will easily acclimate to captivity and will mate/reproduce in aquariums.[70] Juveniles may take a while to begin feeding if newly acquired.[70] Sometimes called the Banded catshark.[70]132 cm (52.0 in)[146]
Epaulette shark
Hemiscyllium ocellatumwith caution (eats inverts)Requires a minimum 260 gallon aquarium.[70] One of the best sharks for home aquaria as it will easily acclimate to captivity and will mate/reproduce in aquariums.[70] Adult males might behave aggressively to other male sharks including male Epualette sharks, and harass females.[70] they aren't very active so a 200-gallon may be acceptable107 cm (42.1 in)[147]
Horn shark
Heterodontus francisciNo[148]Requires a minimum 240 gallon aquarium.[70] A sub-tropical species of shark.[118] The most common bullhead shark in the North American aquarium trade.[70]122 cm (48.0 in)[149]
Port Jackson shark
Heterodontus portusjacksoniNoRequires a minimum 750 gallon aquarium.[70] A sub-tropical species of shark which may be a host to numerous parasites.[118] It will also eat small fish at night.[118]165 cm (65.0 in)[150]
Coral catshark
Atelomycterus marmoratusNoRequires a minimum 110 gallon aquarium.[70] Active during the night and will try to eat fish housed with them (even ones that are too big to swallow).[70] Two color variants are commonly found in fish stores in the US.[70] Also called the Marbled catshark[151] which is a different species of shark (Atelomycterus macleayi).70 cm (27.6 in)

[152]

Marbled catshark
Atelomycterus macleayiNo[153]Requires a minimum 70 gallon aquarium.[70] Uncommon in the aquarium trade although it is an ideal aquarium species of shark.[70] Commonly confused with the Coral catshark (Atelomycterus marmoratus).[153] Unlike the Coral catshark which is black with white spots and bars, the Marbled catshark is pale with black spots and seven grey saddles and is smaller and more docile.[70][153]60 cm (23.6 in)[154]
Nurse shark
Ginglymostoma cirratumNoRequires a minimum 4,800 gallon aquarium.[70] Although durable, the Nurse shark will grow too large for most home aquariums.[70] It is an aggressive feeder which will make it harder for you to feed more reclusive sharks and it can knock over/rearrange aquarium decorations in a small aquarium.[70]430 cm (169.3 in)[155]
Zebra shark
Stegostoma fasciatumNo[156]Requires a minimum 6,200 gallon aquarium.[70] The Zebra shark will grow too large for most home aquariums.[70] Sometimes the juveniles of this shark (20–36 cm or 7.9–14.2in long[157]) are sold[70] and require a minimum 100 gallon aquarium.[156] A juvenile Zebra shark is shown in the picture while adults are much larger and have pale coloration with black spots.[157] Also called the Leopard shark which is a different species of shark[70] (Triakis semifasciata).354 cm (139.4 in)[158]
Leopard shark
Triakis semifasciataNo[159]Requires a minimum 4,500 gallon aquarium.[70] A sub-tropical species of shark[118] and may live a long time in captivity (there are reports of over 20 years).[70]198 cm (78.0 in)[160]
Banded houndshark
Triakis scylliumWith Caution[161]Requires a minimum 750 gallon aquarium.[161] Markings on the shark fade with age but not completely.[161]150 cm (59.1 in)[162]
Gray smooth-hound
Mustelus californicusNo[163]Requires a minimum 1,700 gallon aquarium.[70] A sub-tropical and active species of shark that requires a tank with plenty of room to swim which will do better in circular and oval shaped tanks rather than rectangular ones.[70] It will jump out of uncovered aquariums.[70]116 cm (45.7 in)[164]
Brown smooth-hound
Mustelus henleiNo[70]Requires a minimum 1,200 gallon aquarium.[70] A sub-tropical and active species of shark that requires a tank with plenty of room to swim.[70] This shark will do better in circular and oval shaped tanks where they can have an uninterrupted swimming pattern rather than rectangular tanks.[70] It will jump out of uncovered aquariums and it is more likely to suffer from shipping stress than its less active relatives.[70]100 cm (39.4 in)[165]
Tasselled wobbegong
Eucrossorhinus dasypogonNo[70]Requires a minimum 360 gallon aquarium.[70] Will eat any fish or crustacean housed with it that can be swallowed entirely.[70] Slow-growing when not overfed.[70]125 cm (49.2 in)[166]
Japanese wobbegong
Orectolobus japonicusNo[70]Requires a minimum 170 gallon aquarium.[70] Rare in the North American aquarium trade.[70]118 cm (46.5 in)[167]
Ornate wobbegong
Orectolobus ornatusNoRequires a minimum 3,150 gallon aquarium.[70] The Ornate wobbegong will grow too large for most home aquariums and will eat other elasmobranchs.[70] It is the most common wobbegong in the North American aquarium trade.[70]290 cm (114.2 in)[168]
Spotted wobbegong
Orectolobus maculatusNoRequires a minimum 3,150 gallon aquarium.[70] Although durable, the Spotted wobbegong will grow too large for most home aquariums and will eat other elasmobranchs.[70]320 cm (126.0 in)[169]
Northern wobbegong
Orectolobus wardiNoRequires a minimum 110 gallon aquarium.[70] The Northern wobbegong has a passive personality and a small maximum size, and may not eat initially when it has been added to an aquarium and is rarely collected.[70] An aquarist can handle this shark without a lot fear of getting bitten.[70]63 cm (24.8 in)[170]
Blacktip reef shark
Carcharhinus melanopterusNo[70]Requires a minimum 5,750 gallon aquarium.[70] Easily startled by quick movements and the sudden entry an aquarist in their aquarium which may cause them to jump out of an open tank or hit the walls of their aquarium, leading to death.[70] Must keep swimming in order to breath[171] thus requiring a very large aquarium.[172]200 cm (78.7 in)[173]
Whitetip reef shark
Triaenodon obesusNo[70]Requires a minimum 8,400 gallon aquarium.[70] Can destroy aquarium decorations when moving through the décor to find food.[70] Often has goiter.[70]213 cm (83.9 in)[174]
Bonnethead shark
Sphyrna tiburoNo[70]Requires a minimum 2,600 gallon aquarium.[70] Occasionally available and requires expert care.[70] When newly added to an aquarium, the Bonnethead shark will often swim at the surface of the water and lift the front of its head above the surface. When it has settled in, the shark will stop this activity or begin to do it less often.[70] Must keep moving in order to breath.[175]213 cm (83.9 in)[174]
Shark egg case
Selachimorpha sp. Egg case (Chondrichthyes)N/AMay take 70-90+ days to hatch.[70] Chiloscyllium shark egg cases are hardy and available.[176] Heterodontus,[177] Scyliorhinidae,[178] and Stegostoma[70] shark egg cases are also available.Mixed[179]

Snappers

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Black snapper, black and white snapper
Macolor nigerNo76 cm (29.9 in)
Emperor snapper
Lutjanus sebaeNo114 cm (44.9 in)
Threadfin snapper
Symphorichthys spilurusNo58 cm (22.8 in)
Yellowback fusilier
Caesio xanthonotaNo38 cm (15.0 in)
Yellow-Banded Snapper, Hussar Emperor Snapper
Lutjanus adetiiNo50 cm (19.7 in)

Tangs

Tangs generally feed on algae, though there are a few carnivorous species. Most tangs will not tolerate other fish the same color and/or shape as them. They have a spine on their tails that can cut open other fish and unprotected hands. All tangs should be given plenty of swimming room; try to have at least a 4' tank. Contrary to popular belief they will tolerate smaller (4' to 5') tanks just fine but tend to live better in larger tanks, over 5'.[180]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Achilles tang
Acanthurus achillesYesPassive aggressive. This fish is native to the waters of Hawaii and the South Pacific and therefore requires substantial turbulent flow and circulation to be kept in an aquarium. This fish should only be kept in a six-foot or large aquarium as it requires a large amount of swim room. Very prone to Cryptocaryon irritans28 cm (11.0 in)
Atlantic blue tang
Acanthurus coeruleusYesLess aggressive than Achilles or Powder Blue16 in
Blue eyed tang
Ctenochaetus binotatusYes
Blue lined surgeonfish
Acanthurus nigrorisYes
Bristletooth tang
Ctenochaetus striatusYes
Chevron tang
Ctenochaetus hawaiiensisYesBright orange when young and dark olive green when transitioned fully to juvenile.
Clown tang
Acanthurus lineatusYesOne of the most aggressive tangs15 inches
Convict tang
Acanthurus triostegusYes
Desjardini tang
Zebrasoma desjardiniiYes
Doctorfish
Acanthurus chirurgusYes
Dussumieri tang
Acanthurus dussumieriYes53 cm (20.9 in)[181]
Eibli mimic tangAcanthurus tristisYes
Gold rim tang
Acanthurus nigricansYes
Regal / Hippo tang
Paracanthurus hepatusYesVery prone to Cryptocaryon irritans. More tolerant of other tangs than most other species.
Kole tang
Ctenochaetus strigosusYes
Lavender tang
Acanthurus nigrofuscusYes
Lopezi tangNaso lopeziYes
Mimic tang, Chocolate tang
Acanthurus pyroferusYes
Naso tang, blonde naso tang
Naso lituratusYes
Orange shoulder tang
Acanthurus olivaceusYes
Powder blue tang
Acanthurus leucosternonYesVery prone to Cryptocaryon irritans.
Powder brown tang
Acanthurus japonicusYes
Purple tang
Zebrasoma xanthurumYes
Sailfin tang
Zebrasoma veliferumYes
Scopas tang
Zebrasoma scopasYesSimilar to the yellow tang in shape and feeding.[182]
Sohal tang
Acanthurus sohalYesOne of the larger more aggressive tangs40 cm (15.7 in)
Tennent tang
Acanthurus tennentiYes
Thompson's surgeonfish
Acanthurus thompsoniYes28 cm (11.0 in)
Tomini tang
Ctenocheatus tominiensisYesThis fish requires ample swimming room and is difficult to feed.
Unicorn tang
Naso unicornisYes
Vlamingi tang
Naso vlamingiiYes
White freckled surgeonAcanthurus maculicepsYes
Yellow tang
Zebrasoma flavescensYes
Yellowfin surgeon
Acanthurus xanthopterusYes

Tilefish

Though often categorized as gobies, tilefish are a separate species.[183][184]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Blue-headed tilefish
Hoplolatilus starcki10 cm (3.9 in)
Purple tilefishHoplolatilus purpureus15 cm (5.9 in)
Yellow tilefishHoplolatilus luteus15 cm (5.9 in)
Redlined tilefishHoplolatilus marcosi

Triggerfish

While they are generally considered monsters that will chomp invertebrates, a few species can make great reef fish. Other more aggressive species such as the undulated trigger, and clown trigger will sometimes be so aggressive that it is necessary to keep as the sole inhabitant of the aquarium. All will require large tanks, with good filtration.[185][186][187]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Assasi trigger
Rhinecanthus assasiNo30 cm (11.8 in)
Blue jaw trigger / blue throat trigger
Xanthichthys auromarginatusWidely regarded as the only reef safe trigger.30 cm (11.8 in)
Blue line trigger
Pseudobalistes fuscusNo55 cm (21.7 in)
Bursa trigger
Rhinecanthus verrucosusNo23 cm (9.1 in)
Clown trigger
Balistoides conspicillumNo50 cm (19.7 in)
Crosshatch triggerXanthichthys mentoNoA shy reserved fish when first added to the aquarium, comes into its own when it associates itself with the aquarist. Infrequently available[188]29 cm (11.4 in)
Goldenback triggerXanthichthys caeruleolineatusNoRarely available35 cm (13.8 in)
Golden heart trigger
Balistes punctatusNo61 cm (24.0 in)
Halfmoon trigger
Sufflamen chrysopterumNo30 cm (11.8 in)
Hawaiian black trigger
Melichthys nigerNo50 cm (19.7 in)
Lei trigger
Sufflamen bursaNo25 cm (9.8 in)
Indian black trigger
Melichthys indicusNo25 cm (9.8 in)
Niger trigger
Odonus nigerNoAmong the more peaceful of triggers, can usually be kept in a community tank50 cm (19.7 in)
Picasso trigger
Rhinecanthus aculeatusNo30 cm (11.8 in)
Pinktail trigger
Melichthys viduaNo40 cm (15.7 in)
Queen trigger
Balistes vetulaNoA large fish that should only be kept in very large aquariums.60 cm (23.6 in)
Rectangular trigger
Rhinecanthus rectangulusNo30 cm (11.8 in)
Sargassum trigger
Xanthichthys ringensNoA shy reserved fish when first added to the aquarium, comes into its own when it associates itself with the aquarist. Infrequently available25 cm (9.8 in)
Starry trigger
Abalistes stellatusNo60 cm (23.6 in)
Titan trigger
Balistoides viridescensNoCan only be housed in the largest of marine aquariums75 cm (29.5 in)
Undulated trigger
Balistapus undulatusNoProbably the most aggressive fish kept in marine aquariums. Older specimens should be housed alone.30 cm (11.8 in)
Whitetail trigger
Sufflamen albicaudatumWith Caution22 cm (8.7 in)

Wrasse

A diverse group of fish with an equally wide range of characteristics. Some wrasse species are aggressive towards small fish and invertebrates, others are reef safe. Some are quite hardy, some typically die within weeks.[189][190]

Common name Image Taxonomy Reef safe Description Max size
Banana wrasse
Thalassoma lutescensNo30 cm (11.8 in)
Bicolor cleaner wrasse
Labroides bicolorYes
Bird wrasse
Gomphosus variusNo28 cm (11.0 in)
Bluehead wrasse
Thalassoma bifasciatumWith Caution28 cm (11.0 in)
Bluestreak cleaner wrasse
Labroides dimidiatusYesas the names suggests it is a cleaner fish and will eat some parasites
Carpenter's flasher wrasse
Paracheilinus carpenteriYes; feeds on tiny organisms8 cm (3.1 in)
Cheeklined maori wrasseCheilinus diagrammusNo36 cm (14.2 in)[191]
Christmas wrasse
Thalassoma trilobatumNo15 cm (5.9 in)
Cortez rainbow wrasse
Thalassoma lucasanumNo15 cm (5.9 in)
Dragon wrasse
Novaculichthys taeniourusNo30 cm (11.8 in)
Eight line wrasse
Pseudocheilinus octotaeniaYes; feeds on tiny organisms
Exquisite fairy wrasseCirrhilabrus exquisitusYes; feeds on tiny organisms10 cm (3.9 in)
Fine-spotted fairy wrasseCirrhilabrus punctatusYes; feeds on tiny organisms10 cm (3.9 in)
Flame wrasse
Cirrhilabrus jordaniYes10 cm (3.9 in)
Formosa wrasse
Coris formosaNo61 cm (24.0 in)
Four line wrasse
Pseudocheilinus tetrataeniaYes; feeds on tiny organisms
Goldbar wrasse
Thalassoma hebraicumWith Caution23 cm (9.1 in)
Greenback fairy wrasseCirrhilabrus scottorumYes; feeds on tiny organisms15 cm (5.9 in)
Harlequin tusk
Choerodon fasciatusGenerally, yes, but may eat shrimp
Hawaiian cleaner wrasse
Labroides phthirophagusYes
Hoeven's wrasse
Halichoeres melanurusWith Caution13 cm (5.1 in)
Jansen saddle wrasse
Thalassoma janseniiNo20 cm (7.9 in)
Labout's fairy wrasseCirrhilabrus labouteiYes8 cm (3.1 in)
Leopard wrasse
Macropharyngodon meleagrisYes15 cm (5.9 in)[192]
Lineatus fairy wrasseCirrhilabrus lineatusYes13 cm (5.1 in)
Longfin fairy wrasseCirrhilabrus rubriventralisYes8 cm (3.1 in)
Lyretail wrasse/Moon wrasse
Thalassoma lunareNo25 cm (9.8 in)
Marble wrasse
Halichoeres hortulanusNo28 cm (11.0 in)
McCosker's flasher wrasseParacheilinus mccoskeriYes15 cm (5.9 in)
Multicolor lubbock's wrasse
Cirrhilabrus lubbockiYes; feeds on tiny organisms8 cm (3.1 in)
Multicolor velvet wrasse
Cirrhilabrus cyanopleuraYes; feeds on tiny organisms
Mystery wrasse
Pseudocheilinus ocellatusYes
Orange-back fairy wrasseCirrhilabrus aurantidorsalisYes13 cm (5.1 in)
Pastel-green wrasse
Halichoeres chloropterusWith Caution20 cm (7.9 in)
Pinkface wrasse
Thalassoma quinquevittatumWith Caution15 cm (5.9 in)
Potter's wrasse
Macropharyngodon geoffroyiYes; feeds on tiny organisms
Red coris wrasse
Coris gaimardNo36 cm (14.2 in)
Red-head fairy wrasse
Cirrhilabrus solorensisYes; feeds on tiny organisms13 cm (5.1 in)
Red velvet wrasseCirrhilabrus rubrisquamisYes8 cm (3.1 in)
Scarlet pin stripe wrasse
Pseudocheilinus evanidusYes8 cm (3.1 in)
Six line wrasse
Pseudocheilinus hexataeniaYesSmall pink fish with six purple horizontal lines. Sometimes added to help control flatworms or parasitic snail populations. Semi-aggressive and may pick on shy fish.[193]8 cm (3.1 in)
Radiant wrasse
Halichoeres iridisYes15 cm (5.9 in)
Rhomboid fairy wrasseCirrhilabrus rhomboidalisYesGolden body with purple horizontal stripes on head.13 cm (5.1 in)
Whip fin fairy wrasseCirrhilabrus filamentosusYes9 cm (3.5 in)
Yellow wrasse
Halichoeres chrysusYesYellow body with three or occasionally four black dots on dorsal fins. Require sand bed for sleeping.13 cm (5.1 in)
Yellow & purple wrasseHalichoeres trispilusYes13 cm (5.1 in)
Yellowband wrasseCirrhilabrus luteovittatusYes13 cm (5.1 in)
Yellow fin fairy wrasse
Cirrhilabrus flavidorsalisYes8 cm (3.1 in)
Yellow-flanked fairy wrasseCirrhilabrus lyukyuensisYes10 cm (3.9 in)

See also

References

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