Keeping a saltwater aquarium can be an incredibly rewarding hobby. The wide variety of bright colors, unique shapes, and intriguing behaviors of saltwater fish make an aquarium a beautiful living piece of art. However, with so many options to choose from, what are the coolest saltwater aquarium fish?
What Makes a Saltwater Fish Cool?
There are many factors that contribute to making a saltwater fish cool:
- Bright, vibrant colors
- Unique body shapes and features
- Interesting behaviors and movement
- Peaceful temperament
- Hardy and easy to care for
- Reef safe and get along with other fish
- Adds beauty and visual interest to an aquarium
The coolest saltwater aquarium fish combine several of these traits to make them stand out in the aquarium. They draw the eye with their colors, movements, and behaviors while also being fairly easy to keep.
Most Popular Cool Saltwater Fish
Here are some of the most popular and coolest saltwater aquarium fish:
| Fish Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Clownfish | Iconic orange and white striped fish made famous by Finding Nemo. Peaceful, hardy, and add personality. |
| Yellow Tang | Bright yellow color. Peaceful herbivore. Does well in reef tanks. |
| Royal Gramma | Vibrant purple and yellow coloring. Peaceful toward other fish. |
| Banggai Cardinalfish | Elegant fish with large fins. Reef safe but shy. |
| Clown Goby | Whimsical fish with polka dot pattern. Burrows in the sand. |
| Flame Angelfish | Striking red and black coloration. Active swimmer that adds movement. |
These fish are popular for their coloration, hardiness, peaceful temperaments, and compatibility in reef aquariums. They are sure to liven up any saltwater tank.
Most Unusual & Unique Saltwater Fish
For those looking for something more uncommon, here are some of the most unusual and unique saltwater fish:
| Fish Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Longnose Hawkfish | Striking red color with a long nose. Perches on corals. |
| Mandir Palmata | Redfish with extremely long, trailing fins. Peaceful. |
| Scrawled Filefish | Camicflouged brown pattern. Unusual flattened shape. |
| Flamboyant Cuttlefish | Psychedelic pattern of colors and textures. Alien-like appearance. |
| Regal Tang | Bright blue tang with yellow trim. Stands out in the aquarium. |
| Achilles Tang | Black tang with bright blue trim. Requires large tank. |
These unusual fish deliver unique colors, shapes, and behaviors that will undoubtedly get attention. They require some specialized care but make up for it with their one-of-a-kind look.
Most Expensive Saltwater Fish
For those with generous budgets, here are some of the most coveted and expensive saltwater fish:
| Fish Name | Average Price Range |
|---|---|
| Peppermint Angelfish | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Clarion Angelfish | $2,500 – $10,000 |
| Gem Tang | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| Masked Angelfish | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| Picasso Triggerfish | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Moorish Idol | $800 – $1,200 |
These fish demand premium prices due to their rarity and desirability. Their striking patterns and vibrant colors make them highly sought after. They should only be kept by experienced aquarists with ample resources.
Easiest Saltwater Fish for Beginners
For those just getting started with saltwater aquariums, here are some of the best beginner fish:
| Fish Name | Care Level |
|---|---|
| Ocellaris Clownfish | Easy |
| Yellow Watchman Goby | Easy |
| Firefish Goby | Easy |
| Bicolor Blenny | Easy |
| Blue/Green Chromis | Easy |
| Yellow Tang | Moderate |
These fish are relatively hardy, adjust well to aquarium life, aren’t too demanding of water parameters, and have peaceful temperaments. They are active, colorful, and will help a new hobbyist gain experience and confidence caring for saltwater fish before moving on to more advanced species.
Conclusion
When it comes to the coolest saltwater aquarium fish, there are lots of factors to consider, and plenty of awesome fish to choose from. Vibrant clownfish, graceful angelfish, psychedelic blennies, and strange unicornfish are just a few that can liven up a saltwater tank. Do plenty of research to select species that fit your experience level, tank size, tankmates, and budget. The right fish can take your aquarium from ordinary to extraordinary!