Top 5 Best Saltwater Fish for Beginners

Posted by gerard on March 10, 2010 under Aquarium Info, Saltwater Fish | Be the First to Comment

I have been working on saltwater fish tanks for about 20 years now as a hobby. Through this time I have tried many different approaches to fish and reef keeping. When you first start a saltwater tank, during the initial setup most people will tell you to buy some cheap damsels as a sacrifice to get your cycle going. If the damsels do actually make it then your ready for some real fish.

I don’t like to go that route. I usually make sure that the nitrogen cycle is complete and then start off with some hardy fish. Once your tank has 0 ammonia and nitrites you are on your way. The only battle left to face is nitrates. I have been fighting them for years but that’s another post.

Now, onto the fish. One of the reasons you chose saltwater over freshwater is that the fish are way cooler. The colors are more vibrant and the overall look is beautiful. I have found the following 5 fish are perfect for beginners. They are all very hardy, will eat most everything from pellets and flakes to frozen food. Last but not least they are all reef safe.

I really think you should check out these fish as starters. If you are just getting into the hobby you don’t want to start out with a flame angel or a triggerfish. You need to take it slow and work your way up to those fish. Get your feet wet with a few of these hardy fish. They wont disappoint.

Top 5 saltwater fish for beginners: