Lol everyone hates damsels but I put a three stripe in for my first first and he is the model fish tank citizen so far at about 8 months in

I like the Azure Damselfish. Hardy, very pretty, and peaceful (unlike other damsels). Just be careful not to get the yellow belly or yellow tail one. Those are not Azures. I notice that J&L has the wrong pic for their Azure.

For some reason in my mind (after reading other threads from the OP) I did assume that this wouldn't be the OP's first fish, but just the beginning of a new tank.
Anthia's are definitely not a fish for a beginner, I agree 100%. Sorry for the confusion :redface:

First fish might best be a herbivore, especially if you are starting a new tank and are looking at significant algae...
Any blennie, my fav a tailspot, any algae eating one my choice
Any Escenius species algae eaters
With your tank size, can get a large impressive one!

Just looked at liveaquaria site, starry blennie for your tank size perfect!

not sure if it would be first but a melanarus wrasse would be early on for sure. I love em!