After research, planning, and the tank’s water has been cycled and is ready to accommodate its inhabitants, it’s time for the first fish to begin enjoying its new home.  Since the aquarium is new the water will still not be completely stable, so choosing a strong fish will be best.  In the event that a slight mistake is made in the maintenance of the tank, you don’t want your first aquatic investment to be a flop.

Not only does this first fish need to be resilient, but it needs to be compatible for its future mates.  An aggressive fish won’t be a suitable choice.  This list below is a good beginners guide for your new adventure:

• Clownfish
• Orchid Dottyback
• Royal Gramma
• Blenny
• Chromis
• Firefish

Let’s review the list in more detail.

Clownfish

Clownfish are some of the cutest little fish around that make great starter fishes because of their resilience.  Nemo can now be a part of your aquarium.  There is no need to purchase them individually as they can live harmoniously as a pair.  An interesting fact about this type of fish is that when they are kept in pairs, the more dominant fish will make a significant change.  It will become a female so that the pair can begin reproducing.  Breeding may not take place, but then again it may.

Fortunately, the clownfish do not require an anemone.  So if you weren’t planning on including one in the tank yet, that’s quite alright.  It’s probably best to not add an anemone until the tank is much more stable.  Adding clownfish though can be easily done even with those that are tank bred from the store.  In fact, that may be a more promising option.

Three species of clownfish make the best beginner fish.  They are:

• Common clownfish, more specifically known as Amphiprion ocellaris
• Black and white clown, more specifically known as Amphiprion ocellaris
• Percula clown, more specifically known as Amphiprion percula

 

Orchid Dottyback

This Fridmani Pseudochromis, or more commonly referred to as the Orchid Dottyback, is a harmonious fish that grows to a nice size.  They reach between 3 and 4 inches in length.  And they can be tank bred as well, so purchasing these fish should be a snap.  Only one though as they need to stay away from others of their species as well as other fish of the same shape (like the Royal Gramma).  But don’t worry they Orchid Dottyback will become a very happy fish and will get along very well with clownfish.

Royal Gramma

Another peaceful fish is the Gramma Loreto or the Royal Gramma.  Yes, it certainly gets along royally with others, just not well with their own kind.  Their colorful bodies bring even more brilliance to aquariums.  But, there are other fish that look similar, so make sure you are actually purchasing a Royal Gramma.

Blenny

The Midas Blenny (Ecsenius Midas) and the Bicolor Blenny (Ecsenius Bicolor) are gentle fish that also make great beginner fish.  They don’t interact much so their presence should be of no consequence to the other starter fish.

Chromis

These blue and green fish are prosperous and will thrive in their new environment.  Chromis verdis are a smaller variety fish usually no larger than 2 inches in length.

Firefish

Firefish are a larger variety of starter fish, growing up to about 4 inches.  They have a large dorsal fin and love to involve themselves in holes.  When they are startled, they may retreat to a hole or jump.  Since jumping can occur, proper precautions should be taken.  Firefish species are Nemateleotris Magnifica and Nemateleotris Decora; the latter being of the purple variety.  Firefish should be purchased individually, unless you can find an established pair.  A firefish will make a lovely addition to the marine life in your new tank.

With that, you’re set to choose and proceed.  But, questions never hurt; so if you’re unsure about something, than be sure to ask before purchasing. 

 

 Also check out our videos on this site!  And for a professional guide go to http://www.exclusivefishfilms.com

 

Regards

 

Paul Talbot