Who Gives A Fish Forums

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

tidal wrote: ↑Mon Aug 25, 2025 1:33 pm 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.

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.

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.

flute wrote: ↑Mon Aug 25, 2025 5:11 pm 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.