ReefBay Saltwater Fish ID
How do I identify a saltwater fish from a photo?
Take a clear side-on photo of the fish and run it through Reef ID in the ReefBay app. It suggests the most likely species and links each one to a library page with care level, reef safety, diet, maximum size and minimum tank size. The ReefBay library covers more than 1,000 saltwater fish.
Fish are easiest to identify from the side with fins spread. If the fish is a juvenile, check the adult photos too: many angelfish, wrasses and tangs change color and pattern as they grow.
Included with ReefBay DeepDive. The app is free to download.
How it works
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1
Photograph from the side
Wait until the fish turns side-on and take a few shots. Burst mode helps with fast swimmers.
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2
Run Reef ID
Pick the sharpest shot in Reef ID. Crop so the fish fills most of the frame.
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3
Check the matches
Compare fin shape, stripes and eye markings against the example photos for each match.
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4
Read the care page
Check reef safety, temperament, diet and tank size before adding it or when planning tank mates.
What you get
- Library of 1,000+ saltwater fish species
- Care level, reef safe rating, temperament and diet per species
- Maximum size and minimum tank size
- Community photos from real ReefBay tanks on each species page
- Ask DeepDive if a fish is compatible with your current livestock
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell an Ocellaris clownfish from a Percula clownfish?
Ocellaris clownfish usually have 11 dorsal spines and thin or no black outlines on their white bands. Percula clownfish usually have 9 or 10 dorsal spines and thick black outlines. Captive-bred color forms can blur this, so the spine count is the most reliable check.
Is my fish reef safe?
Each species page in the ReefBay library shows a reef safe rating. Some fish are "with caution": many dwarf angelfish, for example, may nip at coral in some tanks and not others.
Why does my fish not match the photos?
Juveniles, females and stressed fish can look very different from adult photos. Stress coloring at night or after a move often fades within a few days.
Can I identify a fish at my local fish store before buying?
Yes. Take a photo through the glass and run it through Reef ID, then check its adult size and reef safety before you commit.
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Last updated September 30, 2026
