best beginner fish for a saltwater setup

[tidal]

I'm setting up my first saltwater tank, a 30-gallon, and wanna know which fish are the easiest to start with. I've heard Clownfish are good, but are there others that can handle beginner mistakes? My tank's been cycling for 2 weeks, params are stable, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. Got a basic HOB filter and heater set to 78F.

[sailboy82]

Clownfish are solid, but if you want something a bit different, Firefish are pretty chill. They're not too picky and stay small. Just make sure you've got a tight lid, they're known to jump. Your params sound good, so you're on the right track.

[finworld]

I started with a pair of Ocellaris Clownfish. They're hardy and don't need much. Mine are in a 20-gallon with some soft corals. They've been fine even when I messed up the salinity a bit.

[flute]

Damselfish are another option. They're tough as nails, but some can get aggressive. If you go with them, maybe just one to start. Your tank size should be fine for a single Damsel.

[tidal]

Thanks for the suggestions. I'm leaning toward Clownfish or Firefish. Anyone have experience with both? Wondering which is more forgiving with feeding schedules.

[sailboy82]

Thanks for the suggestions. I'm leaning toward Clownfish or Firefish. Anyone have experience with both? Wondering which is more forgiving with feeding schedules.

Firefish are a bit more skittish but eat pretty much anything. Clownfish are bold and will beg for food, so they're easier to feed consistently. Both are good choices though.

[finworld]

My Clownfish eat flakes, pellets, frozen, you name it. They're not picky at all. Firefish might hide more at first but usually come around.

[flute]

If you go with Clownfish, get tank-bred ones. They're hardier than wild-caught and less likely to have parasites. Most LFS carry them now.

[sailboy82]

If you go with Clownfish, get tank-bred ones. They're hardier than wild-caught and less likely to have parasites. Most LFS carry them now.

Yep, totally agree. Tank-bred Clowns are way less sketchy health-wise. Plus, they're already used to aquarium life, so they adapt faster.