Starter Fish For Your Saltwater Aquarium

Flame Hawkfish: This peaceful fish is one of the most popular types of Hawkfish you can add to your tank. It has a red body with darker markings along the dorsal fin and around the eyes. The Flame Hawkfish is very personable. They make a great addition to any reef aquarium as long as there are no small shrimp in the aquarium. The Flame Hawkfish will do well in saltwater tanks as small as 30 gallons.

The Royal Gramma Basslet: This fish brings an explosion of color to any aquarium. It has a bright purple contrasted by a vibrant yellow posterior. Coveted for both its unique color pattern and relatively small adult size, The Gramma is well suited for small salt water aquariums.

The Gramma is native to the reefs of the Caribbeanand prefers extensive rockwork caves in which to hide and somewhat subdued lighting. Since it can demonstrate territorial aggression towards other Grama, it should be housed singly. However, most Royal Gramma Basslets are peaceful towards tankmates of similar size and temperament.

For the best care, keep the Royal Gramma Basslet in reef systems of at least 30 gallons. It is a carnivore, so feed it a varied diet of meaty fare, including marine fish, crustacean flesh, mysis shrimp, and quality frozen preparations.

There are several other fish that would be considered great starter fish. I choose the ones listed above for their ability to adapt well in a new tank, ease of care, popularity and, coloring. So be sure that the fish you choose are ones that you and your family will enjoy.