Species Profiles

With their vibrant colors, elegant body shape and active swimming behavior, surgeonfish are among the most iconic marine fish kept in reef aquariums. From the famous blue tang to the yellow tang, the Acanthuridae family includes numerous species with different characteristics and requirements.

Their popularity should not, however, overshadow their specific needs. Surgeonfish are generally active, require plenty of swimming space and can become territorial, particularly toward fish with a similar body shape. Their adult size must also be taken into account before they are introduced into an aquarium.

Which species are suitable? What aquarium size is required? What do surgeonfish eat, and which fish can they live with? The following sections cover the main points to consider when keeping surgeonfish in an aquarium under suitable conditions.

With their distinctive colors, recognizable swimming style, and fascinating relationship with anemones, clownfish are among the most iconic marine fish. Highly popular in reef aquariums, they appeal to both beginners and more experienced marine aquarists.

Behind their familiar appearance, however, clownfish display particularly interesting behaviors. Pair bonding, social hierarchy, sex change, symbiosis with certain anemones, and reproduction are just some of the characteristics that make these fish so fascinating.

Among the different species, Amphiprion ocellaris is probably the best known and one of the most commonly kept clownfish in aquariums. But how do clownfish actually live? Do they need an anemone? How does a clownfish pair form? Can they breed in an aquarium? Here are the main characteristics and behaviors that make clownfish true icons of the marine aquarium hobby.