Common Reef Fish for an Aquarium

Angelfish

• Centropyge, also known as angelfish, are bright fish and particularly suited to larger tanks. There are both saltwater and freshwater varieties of angelfish, and they come in a variety of bright color combinations and make a colorful addition to a reef aquarium. The Genicanthus melanospilos (Japanese swallowtail angelfish) in particular is a saltwater fish known for its gentle nature and as a fish that will not disrupt corals or invertebrates.

Clownfish

• Amphiprion, commonly known as clownfish, are a popular choice for saltwater reef aquariums. The Amphiprion oscellaris boasts a vivid orange color with a characteristic white stripe and is easily recognized. They are hardy and resistant to sickness and disease and will eat a variety of foods, making them an ideal choice. Clownfish are social and as such should be kept in pairs or groups. An exception is the maroon clownfish, which can grow very large and become aggressive towards other fish.

Gobies

• Gobies are one of the largest families of fish and tend to have long, brightly colored bodies, making them an attractive addition to a saltwater or freshwater tank. Gobies are found in the Gobiidae family of fish and come in three varieties: sand sifting gobies, shrimp gobies and small gobies. As well as with fish food, gobies will supplement their diet with algae growing in the tank, helping you keep it clean and clear. Freshwater gobies include the Australian desert goby and the Asian river goby. The bumblebee goby is a popular choice for smaller saltwater aquariums.

Surgeonfish

• Tangs, commonly known as surgeonfish, are saltwater fish that eat algae, and "they are herbivores by nature so they will also not eat the corals or invertebrates," according to TheSea.org. There are many different varieties of tang, and many of them grow to be quite large, making them suitable for bigger tanks. Tangs are particularly colorful fish, with bright colors and a variety of patterns.