Learn
to fill your new saltwater tank with fish that will survive and thrive
Picking fish for a
saltwater tank is fun, even if you don’t know
exactly what you want. Saltwater fish are very interesting
and
different from freshwater fish. By learning just a few
basics,
you’ll
be able to make the best choices for your new fish for a saltwater
tank.
Understand the
Species
Picking fish for a
saltwater tank can depend highly on your
personality. While you may know which fish you like and want,
other
characteristics must be evaluated BEFORE you buy fish for a saltwater
tank. You need to learn about each species’
compatibility
behavior,
particular characteristic traits (personalities), dietary requirements,
feeding habits, and growth and mating patterns.
Another thing you
must keep in mind is the number of fish you wish
to buy. Before buying many fish, you should research the
types,
their
compatibility, and how much space is required for each fish.
Some
fish
will prey on others and some will be more aggressive.
Compatibility Counts
It is very important
to make your selections of fish for a saltwater
tank keeping compatibility issues in mind. Whether
you’re
getting fish
for a “fish only” tank or for a reef system, you
must know
about the
personality of the fish you choose. Some fish are more
“community
oriented” than others. Choosing fish that
don’t get
along well with
other life in your tank can mean disaster.
Several types of
aggressive behaviors contribute to whether the fish
you choose will be compatible. The basic types are
predator/prey,
territorial protection, mate protection, spawn protection, and feeding
behavior. A few examples:
You don’t
want
to add a single Angelfish or Jewelfish to a mated pair. The
fish
of the same sex will go after each other.
Keeping larger fish
like Lions, Snappers, and Groupers with small
fish like angelfish and damselfish is not suggested. The
larger
fish
will perceive the small fish as prey and attack.
Harassment will most
likely occur whenever you put a new fish into
an established aquarium. Usually it doesn't seem to matter
what
the
type or species of fish. Once the initial phase is over, the
members
of your tank will adjust and return to normal.
The Best Beginner
Fish for a Saltwater Tank
Fish can vary in
price anywhere from three dollars to two hundred or
more. Giving fish enough room to grow a couple of inches in
the
tank
might also be necessary. Consider cheaper fish for your first set of
fish for a saltwater tank. Cheaper fish like Gobies, Damselfish, and
Clownfish. This way if something goes wrong your first time
around you
won’t loose a small fortune in fish.
Your initial choice
of fish for a saltwater tank, will most likely
determine your satisfaction with a saltwater tank. Take your
time
and
choose carefully for years of enjoyment.
