Marine Fish and Invertebrate Care Ratings

Throughout our Guide saltwater fish and invertebrate profiles we include a recommended 1 to 4 star level care rating on each animal. Here are the definitions of those star ratings, which have been formulated from our personal opinions and experience of handling marine livestock since 1989, as well as based on the assumption that any animal is in the best of health when you buy it.

1 Star = Easy

• Typically adapts well to aquarium life, quickly accepting various types of foods given.
  
• Good for a BEGINNER.

2 Stars = Moderately Easy

• Adapts readily to aquarium life, but often has specialized food, environmental or other requirements in captivity.
• Good for an INTERMEDIATE aquarist.

3 Stars = Difficult

• Can be sensitive to changes in water conditions.
• Usually does not fair well in captivity.
  
• Typically hard to feed because of specialized diet requirements, often being picky eaters that refuse foods.
  
• Should only be kept by a WELL EXPERIENCED aquarist.

4 Stars = Extremely Difficult

• Best NOT be kept in captivity, or should ONLY be kept by an ADVANCED level aquarist.