Fish Recommendations for a Newbie?

[Pio Nono]

I've been wanting to set up a saltwater aquarium for some time now, but graduate school has prevented me from having the time and money to do so. Now that I'm out and on my feet financially, this is a route I want to run down. The only problem is...I'm stuck!

I inherited a 160-gallon tank from a friend recently, and another friend (a long-time marine aquarist) is willing to help me set up my new aquarium. I trust these guys to help me get the equipment I need, so that's not a concern of mine. Here's what I KNOW will be in the aquarium...

1.) Live rock
2.) Live sand

Other than that, I don't know what kinds of fish/other creatures should be in the tank. Can I get some input from anyone with an opinion (which should be most people, I hope!)? What kinds of fish did you start with? What kinds do you recommend? What should I avoid?

I would like a lionfish of some sort (perhaps the Volitans Lionfish (Pterois volitans)?), but I'm not committed to that. I also like the Longnose Hawkfish, but again, I'm flexible. I'm looking for colorful fish, but also species that live well together.

Also, what are the various kinds of crabs that do well in aquaria of this size?

 

[ElMonoCalvo]

Welcome to the addiction and

I've kept smaller tanks but am a fan of Clown fish, specifically Maroon Clowns. They have a ton of personality, are reef safe and are pretty easy to keep.

Stay away from Damsels if you want a peaceful reef. Biggest mistake I made in the beginning was putting a Domino Damsel in my tank. Within a week, it was back at the LFS.

Whatever you decide on, patience is key. Good luck.

 

[Len]

If you get the lionfish, you're committing to a predator type tank, which means all smaller fish are out of the question (or they'll be eaten). This includes hawkfish. You need to decide if you like a group of smaller community fish (with some larger community fish like angels and butterflies) or if you want a predator type of tank (lionfish, groupers, eels, triggers, puffers, and any other aggressive and large fish).

There's really too many species to recommend, so best idea is to ask about specific fish that interest you. But again, decide what type of tank you want first