What is Reef Safe?

Reef safe is a term used to indicate that a fish or invertebrate is suitable for a saltwater reef aquarium. There is no fish or invertebrate that is completely reef safe. Each fish or invertebrate even has its own unique personality and may behave differently than others of the same species.

Even though some fish and invertebrates are reef safe, they may also behave aggressively towards fish or invertebrates of the same species or genius.

A few examples of reef safe fish and invertebrates are: Clownfish, Tangs, Blennies, Dottybacks, Anemones, Clams, Sea Cucumbers, Urchins, Peppermint Shrimp, Cleaner Shrimp, Astrea Snails, Brittle Starfish, Linkia Starfish, Emerald Crabs and Hermit Crabs.

A few examples of fish and invertebrates that should be added to a reef aquarium with caution are: Triggerfish, Angelfish, Butterflyfish, some Wrasses, Serpent Starfish, Sally Lightfoot Crabs and Coral Banded Shrimp.

A few examples of fish and invertebrates that should not be added to a reef aquarium are: Sharks, Rays, Groupers, Lionfish, Squirrelfish, Octopus, Mantis Shrimp and Lobsters.

If you have questions, or would like to know if a certain fish or invertebrate is compatible with your aquarium. Please contact us by phone, e-mail, or by completing the form on the Contact Us section of our website.