Clownfish are a popular fish in the aquarium trade, but they can be difficult to keep. They are active and playful fish and need plenty of space to swim. Clownfish are also sensitive to changes in water temperature, so it is important to adjust their tank temperature as needed.

Clown fish (Amphiprioninae) family on sea anemone.

There are many different types of fish that can live with clownfish, but some of the best choices include species such as corydoras, gouramis, and plecos. These fish are all relatively small and easy to keep in a tank with a clownfish, and they will not eat the clownfish's food or harass it.

Best Tank Mates for Clownfish

There are many fish that can live happily with clownfish, but some of the best tank mates for these colorful fish include:

Synchiropus splendidus has vivid colouration, also known as striped mandarinfish, striped dragonet.

Mandarin Dragonet (Synchiropus splendidus)

Mandarin dragonets are a species of fish in the family Callionymidae. They are native to the eastern Pacific Ocean, where they inhabit reefs and canyons. Mandarin dragonets are colorful and often seen darting about among rocks and coral. They feed on small invertebrates and algae.

Ptereleotris zebra – Zebra barred dartfish, Chinese zebra goby – saltwater fish

Dartfish (Ptereleotrinae)

Dartfish are small, attractive fish that inhabit coral reefs around the world. They are an excellent choice for a clownfish tank because they are not as active as some other fish and they do not feed on their aquarium plants. Dartfish can be kept with moderate water conditions and small concentrations of salt.

Red Coris African Wrasse – (Coris gaimard)

Red Coris Wrasse (Coris gaimard)

The Red Coris Wrasse is a small fish that can be found in the Indo-Pacific region. It is a colorful fish with a red, orange, and yellow body. The Red Coris Wrasse is known for its ability to live in close quarters with other fish species, making it an ideal candidate for living with clownfish.

Zebrasoma flavescens in Home Coral reef aquarium. Selective focus.

Yellow Tang (Zebrasoma flavescens)

The Yellow Tang is a tropical fish that can be found in the western Atlantic Ocean, including the Gulf of Mexico. Known for its coloring and fun behavior, the Yellow Tang is an excellent choice for a clownfish tank because it will not feed on the clownfish's food or harass it.

Fairy Basslet on the reef

Basslet Fish (Gramma Loreto)

Basslet fish are known for their ability to live in close quarters with other fish and can be found schooling near the surface or hiding among rocks. Basslet fish are a good choice for a beginner aquarist because they are easy to keep and require little care.

Blue chromis on coral reef off the tropical island of Bonaire in the Caribbean Netherlands.

Chromis Damselfish (Chromis)

Chromis damselfish are a type of fish that can live with clownfish. Chromis damselfish is a colorful fish that can be found in many different parts of the world. They are known for their vibrant colors and their playful attitude. In addition, Chromis damselfish will not bother the clownfish or eat its food.

close up of altum angelfish

Pygmy Angelfish (Pterophyllum leopoldi)

The Pygmy Angelfish is a small, colorful fish that is commonly found in the tropical waters of the world. They are easy to keep and require little care, making them a good choice for a beginner aquarist. In addition, they are colorful and add a splash of vibrant coloration to the aquarium.

Threadfin butterflyfish (Chaetodon auriga) fish underwater in Red sea with corals in background

Butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae)

The Butterflyfish is a popular fish that can be found in both salt and freshwater. They are easy to keep and require little care, making them a good choice for a beginner aquarist. They are usually brightly colored and have long flowing fins. Butterflyfish are very social animals and often live in groups.

Elongate Orange Dottyback – (Pseudochromis elongatus)

Psuedochromis (Pseudochromis)

Psuedochromis is a genus of colorful fish that can be found in many parts of the world. They are usually small and peaceful, making them a great option for beginners. Pseudochromis are easy to keep and require little care, making them an excellent choice for a clownfish tank.

Aegean Combtooth blenny fish – Vicrolipophrys dalmatinus

Blenny (Blenniiformes)

The blenny fish is a small, colorful fish that is found in the wild. These fish are often seen as a nuisance in aquariums because they can be difficult to keep and breed. The blenny fish is a good beginner fish because it is easy to care for and has a variety of colors and patterns.

A banggai cardinal fish swimming through soft corals

Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni)

The Banggai cardinalfish, also known as the clownfish, is a tropical fish that can be found in both fresh and saltwater. It is a popular aquarium fish and can be found in many different colors, including black, yellow, red, orange, and green. The Banggai cardinalfish is omnivorous and feeds on small crustaceans, worms, insects, and other small animals.

Elegant firefish (Nemateleotris decora), also known as the purple firefish.

Firefish (Nemateleotris decora)

Firefish is a type of fish that can be found in the wild. They are typically found in warm waters and can be found near reefs or in other areas with plenty of aquatic vegetation. They are known for their bright colors and are often used as a symbol of courage or strength. In addition, they are peaceful and can easily be kept in a home aquarium.

Goby Fish on sand

Goby Fish (Gobiidae)

Goby fish are a type of fish that can live in both fresh and saltwater. Goby fish are small, but they can be very active and playful. They are also known for their ability to camouflage themselves. In addition, their skin is covered with bright luminescent spots that are only visible when the light hits them in just the right way. These colorful fish can be kept as pets or used as aquarium decoration.

Bicolor Dottyback (Pictichromis paccagnella), also called the Royal Dottyback or False Gramma is a fish commonly kept in marine aquariums

Royal Dottyback (Pictichromis paccagnella)

Royal Dottyback is a popular fish in the saltwater aquarium trade. They are considered to be one of the easier fish to keep and they make great beginner fish. Royal Dottybacks are usually found in tropical reef environments, but they can also be found in warm waters near the coast.