List of freshwater aquarium fish species
A vast number of freshwater species have successfully adapted to live in aquariums. This list gives some examples of the most common species found in home aquariums.
Catfish
Armored catfish including Aspidoras, Brochis, Callichthys, and Corydoras |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Brown-Point Shield Skin | Aspidoras fuscoguttatus | ![]() | 3.8cm
(1.5in) |
30 Gallons | 22–25 °C (72–77 °F)[1] | 5.5–6.8[1] | |
Aspidoras Cory-Cat | Aspidoras lakoi | 4 cm (1.6 in)[2] | 28 Gallons | 22–25 °C (72–77 °F) | |||
Loach catfish | Aspidoras rochai | 4 cm (1.6 in) maximum length[3] | 20 Gallons | 21 - 25 degrees Celsius[3] | 6.0-7.5[3] | ||
Sixray corydoras, false corydoras | Aspidoras pauciradiatus | ![]() | 2.9 cm (1.1 in)[4] | 20 Gallons | 73–82 °F (23–28 °C) | 6.0-7.2[4] | |
Britski's catfish | Brochis britskii | 8.9 cm (3.5 in) | 20–24 °C (68–75 °F) | 6.5-7.2[5] | |||
Emerald catfish | Brochis splendens | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | The Emerald Cory Catfish is a very hardy and resilient fish. Disease should not be a concern provided that you maintain the aquarium to standards.[6] | 20 Gallons | 72 - 82 F (22 - 27.7 C)[6] | 5.8-8.0[7] |
Hognosed brochis | Brochis multiradiatus | ![]() | 6.6 cm (2.6 in) | 70-75 °F (21-24 °C) | 6.0-7.2 | ||
Adolfo's catfish/corydoras | Corydoras adolfoi | ![]() | 5.7 cm (2.2 in) | 72–79 °F (22–26 °C) | 6.0-7.0 | ||
Banded corydoras | Scleromystax barbatus | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | 68 °F (20 °C) to 82 °F (28 °C) | 6.0–8.0 | ||
Masked corydoras, bandit corydoras | Corydoras metae | ![]() | 4.8 cm (1.9 in) | 72–79 °F (22–26 °C) | 6.0-7.0 | ||
Barred-tail corydoras | Corydoras cochui | ![]() | 2.5 cm (0.98 in) | 70-75º F | 6.0 - 7.0 | ||
Blackstripe corydoras | Corydoras bondi | 4.7 cm (1.9 in) | |||||
Blacktop corydoras | Corydoras acutus | ![]() | 4.4 cm (1.7 in) | ||||
Blue corydoras | Corydoras nattereri | ![]() | 5.4 cm (2.1 in) | ||||
Bluespotted corydoras | Corydoras melanistius | 5.1 cm (2.0 in) | |||||
Bronze corydoras, Emerald green cory | Corydoras aeneus | ![]() | 6.35 cm (2.50 in) | 77 to 82 °F (25 to 28 °C) | |||
Caracha | Corydoras atropersonatus | ![]() | 4.5 cm (1.8 in) | ||||
Ehrhardt's corydoras | Corydoras ehrhardti | 4.1 cm (1.6 in) | |||||
Evelyn's cory | Corydoras evelynae | 4 cm (1.6 in) | |||||
Corydoras geoffroy | 7 cm (2.8 in) | ||||||
Corydoras latus | 5.2 cm (2.0 in) | ||||||
Loxozonus cory | Corydoras loxozonus | 4.9 cm (1.9 in) | |||||
Corydoras nain | Corydoras nanus | 4.5 cm (1.8 in) | |||||
Long nosed arched cory | Corydoras narcissus | 6.5 cm (2.6 in) | |||||
Corydoras ornatus | 4.9 cm (1.9 in) | ||||||
Corydoras osteocarus | 4 cm (1.6 in) | ||||||
Corydoras polystictus | 3.2 cm (1.3 in) | ||||||
Scleromystax prionotos | 5.3 cm (2.1 in) | ||||||
Corydoras semiaquilus | ![]() | 6.0 cm (2.4 in) | |||||
Corydoras septentrionalis | 4.9 cm (1.9 in) | ||||||
Corydoras simulatus | 4.9 cm (1.9 in) | ||||||
Corydoras undulatus | 4.4 cm (1.7 in) | ||||||
Dwarf corydoras | Corydoras hastatus | ![]() | 3.5 cm (1.4 in) | ||||
Elegant corydoras | Corydoras elegans | ![]() | 5.1 cm (2.0 in) | ||||
False network catfish | Corydoras sodalis | 4.9 cm (1.9 in) | |||||
False spotted catfish | Corydoras leucomelas | ![]() | 4.5 cm (1.8 in) | ||||
Gold laser cory | Corydoras melanotaenia | ![]() | 5.8 cm (2.3 in) | ||||
Guapore corydoras | Corydoras guapore | 4.1 cm (1.6 in) | |||||
Mosaic corydoras, reticulated corydoras | Corydoras haraldschultzi | ![]() | 5.9 cm (2.3 in)[8] | ||||
Mosaic corydoras, reticulated corydoras | Corydoras reticulatus | 5.1–6.1 cm (2.0–2.4 in) | |||||
Panda corydoras | Corydoras panda | ![]() | 3.8–5.1 cm (1.5–2.0 in) | 6.0-8.0[9] | |||
Pastaza corydoras | Corydoras pastazensis | 6.4–7.1 cm (2.5–2.8 in) | |||||
Peppered corydoras, salt and pepper catfish | Corydoras paleatus | ![]() | 5.1–7.6 cm (2.0–3.0 in) | ||||
Pink corydoras | Corydoras axelrodi | 4–5 cm (1.5–2 in) | |||||
Pygmy corydoras | Corydoras pygmaeus | ![]() | 2.5–3.3 cm (0.98–1.30 in) | A very peaceful species, that does not make an ideal community fish due to its small adult size. It is easily intimidated by larger tank mates and will not compete well with them for food. [10] | 42.4 L (11 gal)[10] | 72 to 79°F (22 to 26°C)[10] | 6.4 to 7.4[10] |
Sailfin corydoras | Scleromystax macropterus | ||||||
Salt and pepper catfish/corydoras | Corydoras habrosus | ![]() | 2.5–3.6 cm (0.98–1.42 in) | ||||
Schwartz's catfish | Corydoras schwartzi | ![]() | 3.8–5.1 cm (1.5–2.0 in) | ||||
Spotted corydoras, longnose corydoras | Corydoras ambiacus | 5.1–6.1 cm (2.0–2.4 in) | |||||
Sterba's corydoras | Corydoras sterbai | ![]() | 6.8 cm (2.7 in)[11] | ||||
Sychr's catfish | Corydoras sychri | ||||||
Tailspot corydoras | Corydoras caudimaculatus | 4–5 cm (1.5–2 in) | |||||
Threestripe corydoras, leopard catfish, false julii cory | Corydoras trilineatus | ![]() | 6.1 cm (2.4 in)[12] | ||||
Xingu corydoras | Corydoras xinguensis | 3.8–5.1 cm (1.5–2.0 in) | |||||
Julii corydoras | Corydoras julii | ![]() | 5.1–6.4 cm (2.0–2.5 in) | ||||
Flagtail catfish | Dianema urostriatum | ![]() |
12.5 centimetres (4.9 in) | 77–82 °F (25–28 °C) | 6.0-8.0 | ||
Cascarudo | Callichthys callichthys | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | 64–83 °F (18–28 °C). | 5.8-8.3 | ||
Spotted hoplo | Megalechis thoracata | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | 64–83 °F (18–28 °C). | 6-8 |
Armored suckermouth catfish (plecos, oto, and whiptail) |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bristlenose pleco, bushynose pleco | Ancistrus sp. | ![]() | 13 cm (5 in)[13] | The bristlenose genus has at least 59 identified species and many others yet to be named.[14] Males and female both have long "bristles" on their nose, the males having distinctly longer ones. | 72-84 F (20-27 C) | ||
Gold nugget pleco | Baryancistrus sp. | ![]() | 77-86 F (25-30 C) | ||||
Whiptail catfish | Rineloricaria sp. | ![]() | 12cm (4.7 in) | It is a peaceful fish that is best kept in good sized groups (6+) in a mature tank with plenty of shady hiding spots amongst plants, driftwood, slate caves, and PVC pipes.[15] | 75-82 F (24-28 C)[15] | 6.0-7.2[15] | |
Twig catfish | Farlowella sp. | ![]() | |||||
Panaque | Panaque sp. | ![]() | |||||
Pineapple pleco, orange cheek pleco | Pseudorinelepis sp. | ![]() | |||||
Common pleco, suckermouth catfish, Amazon sailfin catfish | Pterygoplichthys pardalis | ![]() | 49 cm (19 in) | ||||
Common pleco, suckermouth catfish | Hypostomus punctatus | ![]() | |||||
Common pleco, suckermouth catfish | Hypostomus plecostomus | ![]() | 50 cm (20 in) | Adults can become very territorial and aggressive towards each other. It is difficult to keep 2 adult common plecos together.[16] | 72-86 F (22-30 C)[16] | 6.5-7.5[16] | |
Leopard sailfin pleco, clown sailfin pleco | Pterygoplichthys gibbiceps | ![]() | |||||
Zebra pleco, L-046 | Hypancistrus zebra | ![]() | 3-5 in | One of the most popular Hypancistrus species.
Endangered.[17] |
|||
Sailfin catfish | Pterygoplichthys multiradiatus | ![]() | |||||
Golden dwarf sucker, golden oto | Otocinclus macrospilus | ![]() | 3.5 cm | ||||
Zebra dwarf sucker, zebra oto | Otocinclus cocama | ![]() | |||||
Clown Pleco ( L104, L162, and LDA22)[18] | Panaqolus maccus | ![]() |
8.8 cm (3.5in)[19] | primary diet consists of wood, in aquaria this is provided in the source of drift wood. Will appreciate blanched vegetables, and/ or algae (wafer or live)[18] | 20 gal[20][21] | 23.0-28.0°C or 73.4-82.4°F[18] | 6.8 - 7.6[18] |
Long-whiskered catfish |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bolt catfish | Aguarunichthys torosus | 35 cm (14 in) | |||||
Gold Zebra catfish | Brachyplatystoma juruense | 60 cm (24 in) | |||||
Zebra shovelnose | Brachyplatystoma tigrinum | 60 cm (24 in) | |||||
Vulture Catfish, zamurito | Calophysus macropterus | ![]() | 40 cm (16 in) | ||||
Leiarius marmoratus | ![]() | 100 cm (39 in) | |||||
Leiarius pictus | 60 cm (24 in) | ||||||
Redtail catfish | Phractocephalus hemioliopterus | ![]() | 120 cm (3.9 ft) | Needs at least a 2,600 US gallons (9,800 L) tank when mature, even though this does not provide them with the space to show their natural behaviour.[22] | 70–79 °F (21–26 °C)[22] | 6.0–7.5[22] | |
Spotted pimelodus, pictus, pictus catfish | Pimelodus pictus | ![]() | 30 cm (12 in) | ||||
Ornate Pimelodus | Pimelodus ornatus | 38.5 cm (1.26 ft) | Similar to catfish but not in the same genus | ||||
Sturgeon catfish | Platystomatichthys sturio | 40 cm (1.3 ft) | |||||
Barred sorubim | Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum | 104 cm (3.41 ft) | |||||
Tiger sorubim | Pseudoplatystoma tigrinum | ![]() | 130 cm (4.3 ft) | ||||
Firewood catfish, (planiceps) shovelnose catfish | Sorubimichthys planiceps | ![]() | 178 cm (70 in) | ||||
Lima shovelnose catfish | Sorubium lima | ![]() | 40 cm (1.3 ft) | ||||
Squeakers and upside-down catfish |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cuckoo squeaker | Synodontis multipunctatus | ![]() | 27.5 cm (10.8 in) | ||||
Decorated squeaker | Synodontis decorus | ||||||
Even-Spotted squeaker | Synodontis petricola | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Featherfin squeaker | Synodontis eupterus | ![]() | |||||
Lake Malawi syno | Synodontis njassae | ![]() | |||||
Polka dot syno | Synodontis angelicus | ![]() | |||||
Common syno, false upside-down catfish | Synodontis nigrita | ||||||
Upside-down catfish | Synodontis nigriventris | ![]() | 9.6 cm (3.8 in) | S. nigriventris prefers bottom feeding on Tubifex (or similar worms), but its main diet consists of algae.[23]The blotched upside-down catfish is well suited to aquariums because of its small size (typically 9 or 10 cm or less) and peaceful demeanor. | 72–82 °F (22–28 °C)[24] | 6.0 - 7.5[24] |
Other catfish |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Three-striped African catfish | Pareutropius buffei | 11.5 cm (4.5 in) | |||||
Giraffe catfish | Auchenoglanis occidentalis | ![]() | 70 cm (28 in) | ||||
Electric catfish | Malapterurus electricus | ![]() | 122 cm (48 in) | ||||
Black lancer catfish | Bagrichthys macracanthus | 25 cm (9.8 in) | |||||
Harlequin lancer catfish | Bagroides melapterus | 30 cm (12 in) | |||||
Crystal-eyed catfish | Hemibagrus wyckii | 71 cm (28 in) | |||||
Asian redtail catfish | Hemibagrus wyckioides | 130 cm (51 in) | |||||
Shadow catfish | Hyalobagrus flavus | ![]() | 4.5 cm (1.8 in) | ||||
Mystus bimaculatus | 6.5 cm (2.6 in) | ||||||
Dwarf bumblebee catfish | Pseudomystus leiacanthus | 6 cm (2.4 in) | |||||
Asian bumblebee catfish | Pseudomystus siamensis | 15 cm (5.9 in) | |||||
Dinema catfish | Belodontichthys dinema | ![]() | 100 cm (39 in). | ||||
Glass catfish | Kryptopterus vitreolus | ![]() | 8 cm (3.1 in). | ||||
Striped glass catfish | Kryptopterus macrocephalus | 10 cm (3.9 in). | |||||
Borneo glass catfish | Ompok eugeneiatus | 16.5 cm (6.5 in). | |||||
Striped wallago catfish | Wallago leerii | ![]() | 150 cm (59 in). | ||||
Chocolate frogmouth catfish | Chaca bankanensis | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | ||||
Asian banjo catfish | Acrochordonichthys rugosus | 11 cm (4.3 in) | |||||
Walking catfish | Clarias batrachus | ![]() | 50 cm (19.5 in) | The albino form is common in the aquarium trade. This fish can survive out of the water and "walk" as long as kept wet, for a very long time.[25] | |||
Stinging catfish | Heteropneustes fossilis | ![]() | 30 cm (12 in) | ||||
Sun catfish | Horabagrus brachysoma | ![]() | 45 cm (18 in) | ||||
Iridescent shark | Pangasianodon hypophthalmus | ![]() | 130 cm (51 in) | ||||
Chao Phraya giant shark, giant pangasius | Pangasius sanitwongsei | ![]() | 300 cm (120 in) | ||||
Colombian shark catfish | Ariopsis seemanni | ![]() | 35 cm (14 in) | ||||
Blue whale catfish | Cetopsis coecutiens | 27 cm (11 in) | |||||
Banjo catfish | Bunocephalus coracoideus | 14 cm (5.5 in) | |||||
Striped raphael catfish | Platydoras armatulus | ![]() | 43 cm (17 in) | ||||
Spotted raphael catfish | Agamyxis pectinifrons | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | ||||
Bottlenose catfish | Ageneiosus marmoratus | 18.5 cm (7.3 in) | |||||
Gulper catfish | Asterophysus batrachus | 25 cm (9.8 in) | |||||
Midnight catfish | Auchenipterichthys coracoideus | 10 cm (3.9 in) | |||||
Oil catfish | Centromochlus perugiae | 5 cm (2.0 in) | |||||
Jaguar catfish | Liosomadoras oncinus | 17 cm (6.7 in) | |||||
Pygmy driftwood catfish | Trachelyichthys exilis | 8 cm (3.1 in) | |||||
Trachelyopterus fisheri | 28 cm (11 in) |
Characins and other characiformes
Tetras |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Black phantom tetra | Hyphessobrycon megalopterus | ![]() | 3.6 cm (1.4 in)[26] | The black phantom tetra enjoy being in groups of 6 or more and a slightly shaded tank. Males may claim small territories and occasionally minor battles may occur. The Phantom tetra goes well with other tetras of similar size. They also prefer floating plants.[27] | |||
Black neon tetra | Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi | ![]() | 3.2 cm (1.3 in)[28] | ||||
Black tetra, skirt tetra | Gymnocorymbus ternetzi | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | A highly spirited fish that may occasionally chase its own species as well as harass slow moving fish with long fins. This fish is very hardy and can stand a variety of water qualities. Disease is not a big problem with the black tetra. The black tetra is also known as the black skirt tetra. The female black tetra is more robust and larger than the male.[29] | |||
Black morpho tetra | Poecilocharax weitzmani | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | ||||
Bleeding heart tetra | Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma | ![]() | 6.5 cm (2.6 in) | The bleeding heart tetra is distinguished by the small red spot on both sides of the fish. This fish is very prone to diseases, and can grow larger than most tetra species.[30] | |||
Bloodfin tetra | Aphyocharax anisitsi | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | ||||
Blue tetra | Knodus borki | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | ||||
Bucktooth tetra | Exodon paradoxus | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | ||||
Buenos Aires tetra | Hyphessobrycon anisitsi | ![]() | 7.5 cm (3.0 in) | ||||
Cardinal tetra | Paracheirodon axelrodi | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | Similar to the Neon Tetra, but slightly larger and doesn't prefer to school as much. They need much larger tanks, although their temperament is similar.[31] | |||
Cave tetra, blind tetra | Astyanax mexicanus | ![]() | 12 cm (4.7 in) | The cave tetra is the blind cave form of the Mexican tetra. This tetra prefers low to moderate lighting.[32] | |||
Diamond tetra | Moenkhausia pittieri | ![]() | 6 cm (2.4 in) | ||||
Ember tetra | Hyphessobrycon amandae | ![]() | 2 cm (0.79 in) | Ember tetras have been known to live ten years or more. May become stressed by the presence of larger fish.[33] | 50 liters (13 U.S. gal)[34] | 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)[34] | 5 - 7 pH[34] |
Emperor tetra | Nematobrycon palmeri | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | ||||
Flame tetra | Hyphessobrycon flammeus | ![]() | 2.5 cm (0.98 in) | ||||
Garnet tetra, pretty tetra | Hemigrammus pulcher | ![]() | 6.5 cm (2.6 in) | ||||
Glass bloodfin tetra | Prionobrama filigera | ![]() | 6 cm (2.4 in) | ||||
Glowlight tetra | Hemigrammus erythrozonus | ![]() | 3.75 cm (1.48 in) | ||||
Golden pristella tetra | Pristella maxillaris | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | ||||
Green neon tetra | Paracheirodon simulans | ![]() | 2.5 cm (0.98 in) | Similar to Neon Tetras and Cardinal Tetras, they are the same to Neon Tetras beside having a green tiny near their top dorsal fin[35] | |||
Head and tail light tetra | Hemigrammus ocellifer | ![]() | 4 cm (1.6 in) | ||||
January tetra | Hemigrammus hyanuary | ![]() | 4 cm (1.6 in) | ||||
Lemon tetra | Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | ||||
Neon tetra | Paracheirodon innesi | ![]() | 3.75 cm (1.48 in) | Neon tetras must be kept in groups of at least a half-dozen, as they are a shoaling species. With peaceful dispositions, they are also able to be kept with other species of non-aggressive fish.[36] | 38 L (10 gal)[36] | 68 to 79 F (20 to 26 C)[36] | 6.0–7.0[37] |
Ornate tetra | Hyphessobrycon bentosi | ![]() | 4.5 cm (1.8 in) | ||||
Penguin tetra, blackline penguinfish | Thayeria boehlkei | ![]() | 6.5 cm (2.6 in) | ||||
Red Eye tetra | Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae | ![]() | 4 cm (1.6 in) | ||||
Red phantom tetra | Hyphessobrycon sweglesi | ![]() | 4.5 cm (1.8 in) | ||||
Rosy tetra | Hyphessobrycon rosaceus | ![]() | 4 cm (1.6 in) | ||||
Royal tetra | Inpaichthys kerri | ![]() | 3.5 cm (1.4 in) | Possesses an adipose fin allowing it to be differentiated from the Emperor tetra [38] | |||
Rummy-nose tetra | Hemigrammus rhodostomus | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | This common name is used for three different species of schooling fish with similar patterns: Hemigrammus rhodostomus, Hemigrammus bleheri, and Petitella georgiae. | |||
Splash tetra | Copella arnoldi | ![]() | 5.5 cm (2.2 in) | ||||
Serpae tetra | Hyphessobrycon serpae | ![]() | 4.5 cm (1.8 in) | ||||
Silvertip tetra | Hasemania nana | ![]() | 3 cm (1.2 in) | ||||
X-ray tetra | Pristella maxillaris | ![]() | 4.5 cm (1.8 in) | Also just called the X-ray fish. | |||
Congo tetra | Phenacogrammus interruptus | ![]() | 7.5 cm (3.0 in) | Peaceful but may scare shy species with its active swimming and large adult size. Recommended for most community tanks however. Do not keep congo tetras with fin-nipping species as the spectacular fins of the males will be destroyed.[39] | 108 L (28.5 gal)[39] | 73-82°F (23-28°C)[39] | 6.0-7.5[39] |
Jellybean tetra | Ladigesia roloffi | ![]() | 3 cm (1.2 in) | ||||
Long-fin tetra | Brycinus longipinnis | ![]() | 12.5 cm (4.9 in) | ||||
Niger tetra | Arnoldichthys spilopterus | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Yellow-tailed Congo tetra | Alestopetersius caudalis | ![]() | 6 cm (2.4 in) |
Hatchetfish |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Common hatchetfish | Gasteropelecus sternicla | ![]() | 4 cm (1.6 in) | Requires a varied diet including fruit flies[40][41] | |||
Marbled hatchetfish | Carnegiella strigata | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | Requires a varied diet including fruit flies[41][40] | |||
Black-winged hatchetfish | Carnegiella marthae | ![]() | 4 cm (1.6 in) | ||||
Pygmy hatchetfish | Carnegiella myersi | 2.2 cm (0.87 in) |
Pencil fishes |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Golden pencilfish | Nannostomus beckfordi | ![]() | 6 cm (2.4 in) | ||||
Hockeystick pencilfish | Nannostomus eques | ![]() | 3.5 cm (1.4 in) | ||||
Barred pencilfish | Nannostomus espei | ![]() | 3 cm (1.2 in) | ||||
Dwarf pencilfish | Nannostomus marginatus | ![]() | 2.5 cm (0.98 in) | ||||
Coral-red pencilfish | Nannostomus mortenthaleri | ![]() | 3 cm (1.2 in) | ||||
Nannostomus nigrotaeniatus | ![]() | 3 cm (1.2 in) | |||||
Three-lined pencilfish | Nannostomus trifasciatus | ![]() | 3 cm (1.2 in) | ||||
One-lined Pencilfish | Nannostomus unifasciatus | ![]() | 4 cm (1.6 in) |
Serrasalminae (pacus, piranhas, and silver dollars) |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Silver dollar | Metynnis argenteus | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | The name "silver dollar" may also refer to Metynnis hypsauchen, Metynnis maculatus, or other related fishes. | |||
Schreitmuller's metynnis | Metynnis hypsauchen | ![]() | 14 cm (5.5 in) | ||||
Red-bellied pacu | Colossoma bidens | ![]() | 120 cm (3.9 ft) | 78–82 °F (26–28 °C) | |||
Red piranha | Pygocentrus nattereri | ![]() | 33 cm (13 in) | ||||
Disk tetra | Myleus schomburgkii | ![]() | 40 cm (16 in) | 23 °C to 27 °C | 5.0–7.0 |
Other Characins |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
African pike characin | Hepsetus odoe | ![]() | |||||
Goliath tigerfish | Hydrocynus goliath | ![]() | 133 cm (52 in) | ||||
Hujeta gar | Ctenolucius hujeta | ![]() | 25 cm (9.8 in) | ||||
Kissing prochilodus, flagtail Prochilodus | Semaprochilodus insignis | ![]() | 27.5 cm (10.8 in) | ||||
Marbled headstander | Abramites hypselonotus | ![]() | 14 cm (5.5 in)[42] | ||||
Banded leporinus | Leporinus fasciatus | ![]() | 27 cm (11 in) | ||||
Striped headstander | Anostomus anostomus | ![]() | 16 cm (6.3 in) | ||||
Six-banded distichodus | Distichodus sexfasciatus | ![]() | 75 cm (30 in) | ||||
Payara | Hydrolycus scomberoides | ![]() | 117 cm (46 in) | ||||
Pink-tail chalceus | Chalceus macrolepidotus | ![]() | 25 cm (9.8 in) | ||||
Red wolf fish | Erythrinus erythrinus | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | ||||
Red tail barracuda | Acestrorhynchus falcatus | ![]() | 30 cm (12 in) | ||||
Spotted headstander | Chilodus punctatus | ![]() | 8 cm (3.1 in) | ||||
Cichlids
Lake Malawi cichlids |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sunshine peacock cichlid | Aulonocara baenschi | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | ||||
Pale usisya aulonocara | Aulonocara steveni | ![]() | |||||
Red fin hap | Copadichromis borleyi | ![]() | |||||
Eureka red peacock | Aulonocara jacobfreibergi | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | ||||
Spilo | Champsochromis spilorhynchus | 40 cm (16 in) | |||||
Blue dolphin cichlid, lumphead cichlid | Cyrtocara moorii | ![]() | 25 cm (9.8 in) | ||||
Afra cichlid, dogtooth cichild | Cynotilapia afra | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Rusty cichlid, lavender cichild | Iodotropheus sprengerae | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Fuelleborn's cichlid, Blue mbuna | Labeotropheus fuelleborni | ![]() | 18 cm (7.1 in) | ||||
Electric yellow cichlid | Labidochromis caeruleus | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | ||||
Electric blue cichlid | Sciaenochromis fryeri | ![]() | |||||
Malawi eyebiter | Dimidiochromis compressiceps | ![]() | |||||
Hongi, Red-top kimpumpa | Labidochromis sp. "Hongi" | ![]() | 13 cm (5.1 in) | ||||
Yellow Top Mbamba | Labidochromis sp. "Mbamba Bay" | 13 cm (5.1 in) | |||||
Auratus cichlid, Malawi golden cichlid | Melanochromis auratus | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Chipokee cichlid | Melanochromis chipokae | 12 cm (4.7 in) | |||||
Blue johanni cichlid, Maingano | Melanochromis cyaneorhabdos | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Pearl of Likoma | Melanochromis joanjohnsonae | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Aurora | Melanochromis aurora | 10 cm (3.9 in) | |||||
Red zebra cichlid | Metriaclima estherae | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Cobalt blue cichlid, cobalt zebra cichlid | Maylandia callainos | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Kenyi cichlid | Maylandia lombardoi | ![]() | 13 cm (5.1 in) | ||||
Fusco | Nimbochromis fuscotaeniatus | ![]() | 25 cm (9.8 in) | ||||
Livingston's cichlid | Nimbochromis livingstonii | ![]() | 25 cm (9.8 in) | ||||
Kaligono | Nimbochromis polystigma | ![]() | 30 cm (12 in) | ||||
Venustus cichlid, giraffe cichild | Nimbochromis venustus | ![]() | 25 cm (9.8 in) | ||||
Red empress cichlid | Protomelas taeniolatus | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | ||||
Bumblebee cichlid, hornet cichlid | Pseudotropheus crabro | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | ||||
Yellow-tail acei | Pseudotropheus acei | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Johanni cichlid | Pseudotropheus johannii | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Dwarf Mbuna | Pseudotropheus demasoni | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Saulosi | Pseudotropheus saulosi | ![]() | 7.5 cm (3.0 in) | ||||
Malawi barracuda | Rhampsochromis cf. macrophthalmus | 23 cm (9.1 in) | |||||
Tyrannochromis macrostoma | 38 cm (15 in) |
Lake Tanganyika cichlids |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Benthochromis tricoti | ![]() | ||||||
Boulengerochromis microlepis | ![]() | 90 cm (35 in) | |||||
Frontosa cichild | Cyphotilapia frontosa | ![]() | 40 cm (16 in) | ||||
Cyathopharynx furcifer | ![]() | ||||||
Variabilichromis moorii | ![]() | ||||||
Frontosa cichild | Cyphotilapia gibberosa | ![]() | 40 cm (16 in) | ||||
Julie cichlid | Julidochromis dickfeldi | ![]() | |||||
Masked Julie | Julidochromis marlieri | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) fem / 10 cm (3.9 in) male | ||||
Golden Julie | Julidochromis ornatus | ![]() | |||||
Julie cichlid | Julidochromis regani | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) fem / 10 cm (3.9 in) male | ||||
Julie cichlid | Julidochromis transcriptus | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Herring cichlid, sardine cichlid | Cyprichromis leptosoma | ![]() | |||||
Ectodus descampsii | ![]() | ||||||
Chalinochromis spp. | ![]() | ||||||
Neolamprologus multifasciatus | ![]() | 3.8 cm (1.5 in) | |||||
Lamprologus ocellatus | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | |||||
Neolamprologus similis | ![]() | 3.8 cm (1.5 in) | A small shell-dwelling cichlid from Lake Tanganyika. Very similar to N. multifsciatus but similis has striping from the body continue to the head | ||||
Lobochilotes labiatus | 40 cm (16 in) | ||||||
Lyretail cichlid, fairy cichlid | Neolamprologus brichardi | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Lemon cichlid | Neolamprologus leleupi | ![]() | 11.5 cm (4.5 in) | ||||
Featherfin | Ophthalmotilapia ventralis | 15 cm (5.9 in) | |||||
Petrochromis trewavasae | 20 cm (7.9 in) | ||||||
Simochromis pleurospilus | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||||
Tropheus duboisi | ![]() | 13 cm (5.1 in) | |||||
Tropheus moorii | ![]() | 14 cm (5.5 in) | |||||
Tropheus polli | ![]() | 14 cm (5.5 in) |
Lake Victoria cichlids |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Astatotilapia aenocolor | 13 cm (5.1 in) | ||||||
Astatotilapia elegans | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||||
Zebra obliquidens | Astatotilapia latifasciata | 11.5 cm (4.5 in) | |||||
Astatotilapia nubila | 11.5 cm (4.5 in) | ||||||
Astatotilapia piceatus | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||||
Astatotilapia schubotziellus | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||||
Astatotilapia sp. "Red Tail" | 11.5 cm (4.5 in) | ||||||
Astatotilapia sp. "Spot Bar" | 13 cm (5.1 in) | ||||||
Allauad's haplo | Astatoreochromis alluaudi | ![]() | |||||
Hippo Point Salmon | Ptyochromis sp. "Hippo Point Salmon" | 14 cm (5.5 in) | |||||
Flameback | Pundamilia nyererei | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Xystichromis phytophagus | 10 cm (3.9 in) |
Miscellaneous African cichlids (non-Rift Lake) |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
African butterfly cichlid | Anomalochromis thomasi | ![]() | |||||
Jewel cichlid, two-spotted jewel cichlid | Hemichromis bimaculatus | ![]() | 4-5 inch | ||||
Lionhead cichlid | Steatocranus casuarius | ![]() | |||||
Lifalili jewel cichlid, blood-red jewel cichlid | Hemichromis lifalili | ![]() | |||||
Kribensis, krib | Pelvicachromis pulcher | ![]() | |||||
Kribensis, krib | Pelvicachromis taeniatus | ![]() |
|||||
Guenther's Mouthbrooder | Chromidotilapia guentheri | ![]() |
Dwarf cichlids (apistogrammas, rams and others) |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Agassiz's dwarf cichlid | Apistogramma agassizii | ![]() | |||||
Zebra acara | Ivanacara adoketa | ![]() | |||||
Yellow dwarf cichlid | Apistogramma borellii | ![]() | |||||
Cockatoo dwarf cichlid | Apistogramma cacatuoides | ![]() | |||||
Panda dwarf cichlid | Apistogramma nijsseni | ![]() | |||||
Three-Stripe Dwarf Cichlid | Apistogramma trifasciata | ![]() | |||||
Apistogramma eremnopyge | |||||||
Two-Stripe Dwarf Cichlid | Apistogramma bitaeniata | ![]() | 7.5 cm (3.0 in) | ||||
Checkerboard Cichlid | Dicrossus filamentosus | ![]() | |||||
Blue ram, German ram, German Ramirezi | Mikrogeophagus ramirezi | ![]() | 5.0 cm (2.0 in)[43] | These small and colorful fish require precise water parameters, and if you don't meet those parameters, your fish could be severely impacted.[43] | 10 U.S. gal (38 L)[43] | 78 - 85 F (25.5 - 29.4 C)[43] | 6.0 – 7.5[43] |
Bolivian ram | Mikrogeophagus altispinosa | ![]() | |||||
Dwarf flag cichlid | Laetacara curviceps | ![]() |
Central American cichlids |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Midas cichlid | Amphilophus citrinellus | ![]() | 35 cm (14.in) | commonly confused with red devil cichlids, but it is an entirely different species [44] | |||
Poor man's tropheus | Hypsophrys nematopus | ![]() | |||||
Red devil cichlid | Amphilophus labiatus | ![]() | |||||
Firemouth cichlid | Cichlasoma meeki | ![]() | |||||
Jack Dempsey cichlid | Rocio octofasciata | ![]() | |||||
Jaguar cichlid, managuense cichlid | Parachromis managuensis | ![]() | |||||
Mayan cichlid | Mayaheros urophthalmus | ![]() | |||||
Convict cichlid | Archocentrus nigrofasciatus | ![]() | |||||
T-bar cichlid | Amatitlania sajica | ||||||
Wolf cichlid | Parachromis dovii | ![]() | |||||
Texas cichlid, Rio Grande cichlid | Herichthys cyanoguttatus | ![]() |
South American cichlids |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Green terror | Andinoacara rivulatus | ![]() | |||||
Blue acara | Andinoacara pulcher | ![]() | |||||
Thread-finned acara | Acarichthys heckelii | ![]() | |||||
Eartheater cichlid | Geophagus altifrons | ![]() | |||||
Demon eartheater | Satanoperca jurupari | ![]() | |||||
Greenstreaked Eartheater, cupid cichlid | Biotodoma cupido | ![]() | |||||
Keyhole cichlid | Cleithracara maronii | ![]() | |||||
Flag cichlid | Mesonauta festivus | ![]() | |||||
Angelfish | Pterophyllum scalare | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | In an enclosed tank habitat, the fish's territorial, aggressive nature is heightened, so don't house angelfish with shy species that are intimidated by pushy, boisterous fish.[45] | 75–82°F (25–28°C)[45] | 6.8 – 7[45] | |
Altum angelfish | Pterophyllum altum | ![]() | |||||
Spotted angelfish | Pterophyllum leopoldi | ![]() | |||||
Common discus, red discus | Symphysodon discus | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | ||||
Blue discus, green discus | Symphysodon aequifasciatus | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | ||||
Oscar | Astronotus ocellatus | ![]() | 45 cm (18 in) | Many people that purchase these fish do not realize that the fish could grow to a foot long (30 cm) within a year. Due to their fast growth rate and large size as an adult, they are often kept in aquariums that are too small for them.[46] | 72-80 °F (22-27 °C)[46] | 6.0-7.5[46] | |
Chocolate cichlid | Hypselecara temporalis | ![]() | |||||
Severum | Heros efasciatus | ![]() | |||||
Uaru, waroo | Uaru amphiacanthoides | ![]() | Also known as the Triangle Cichlid. | ||||
Zebra Pike Cichlid | Crenicichla zebrina | ![]() | |||||
Butterfly peacock bass | Cichla ocellaris | ![]() | |||||
Orinoco peacock bass | Cichla orinocensis | ![]() | |||||
Speckled peacock bass | Cichla temensis | ![]() |
Other cichlids |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Canara pearlspot | Etroplus canarensis | ||||||
Green chromide | Etroplus suratensis | ![]() | |||||
Orange chromide | Pseudetroplus maculatus | ![]() | |||||
Pinstripe damba | Paretroplus menarambo | ![]() | |||||
Blood parrot cichlid | (Amphilophus citrinellus × Vieja melanurus) | ![]() | 20 cm( 8 in) | Not considered a separate species of cichlid but a hybrid.[47] | |||
Flowerhorn cichlid | Cichlasoma sp. | ![]() | 25 cm (9.8 in) | Not considered a separate species of cichlid but a hybrid.[47] | |||
Cyprinids
Barbs |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Arulius barb | Dawkinsia arulius | ![]() | 12 cm (4.7 in) | 66 °F to 77 °F (19°-25 °C) | 6 – 8 | ||
Bigspot barb, Duncker's barb | Barbodes dunckeri | 13 cm (5.1 in) | 72 - 85 °F (22 - 29 °C) | 6 - 7 | |||
Black ruby barb | Pethia nigrofasciatus | ![]() | 6.5 cm (2.6 in) | ||||
Cherry barb | Puntius titteya | ![]() | 4.8 cm (1.9 in) | ||||
Clipper barb | Enteromius callipterus | 7.5 cm (3.0 in) | |||||
Clown barb | Barbodes everetti | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | ||||
Denison's barb, red line torpedo barb | Sahyadria denisonii | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | ||||
Gold barb | Barbodes semifasciolatus | ![]() | 8 cm (3.1 in) | ||||
Golden barb | Pethia gelius | 5 cm (2.0 in) | |||||
Greenstripe barb | Puntius vittatus | 5 cm (2.0 in) | |||||
Indian Glass Barb | Laubuka laubuca | 6.7 cm (2.6 in) | |||||
Melon barb | Haludaria fasciata | 15 cm (5.9 in) | |||||
Odessa barb | Pethia padamya | ![]() | 8 cm (3.1 in) | ||||
Onespot barb | Puntius terio | 15 cm (5.9 in) | |||||
Panda barb | Puntius fasciatus | ![]() | 5 inches | ||||
Pool barb | Puntius sophore | ![]() | 18 cm (7.1 in) | ||||
Partipentazona barb | Puntigrus partipentazona | ![]() | 3.8 cm (1.5 in) | ||||
Rosy barb | Pethia conchonius | ![]() | 13 cm (5.1 in) | ||||
Shortfin barb | Barbus brevipinnis | 4.6 cm (1.8 in) | |||||
Snakeskin barb | Desmopuntius rhomboocellatus | ![]() | 3.5 inches | ||||
Spottedsail barb, dwarf barb | Pethia phutunio | 7.8 cm (3.1 in) | |||||
Swamp barb | Puntius chola | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | ||||
Ticto barb | Barbus ticto | 10 cm (3.9 in) | |||||
Tic-tac-toe barb | Puntius stoliczkanus | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | ||||
Tiger barb, sumatra barb | Puntigrus tetrazona | ![]() | 7.5 cm (3.0 in) | Keep in shoals of 8 or 10 to prevent aggression[48] | |||
Spanner barb, t-barb | Barbodes lateristriga | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | ||||
Fiveband barb, pentazona barb | Desmopuntius hexazona | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | ||||
Checker barb | Oliotius oligolepis | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | ||||
Tinfoil barb | Barbonymus schwanenfeldii | ![]() | 36 cm (14 in) |
Other cyprinids |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bala shark | Balantiocheilus melanopterus | ![]() | 40 cm (16 in) | Grows large, needs lots of swimming room and is a schooling fish so a 125 gallon would be good for 3-4[49] | |||
Black shark | Labeo chrysophekadion | ![]() | 90 cm (35 in) | ||||
Siamese algae eater, fringe barb | Crossocheilus oblongus | ![]() | 16 cm (6.3 in) | Many other fish in the order Cypriniformes are also sold under this name. Very likely to jump out of the aquarium especially after reaching adult size. Very useful for getting rid of algae when it is young but prefer fish food upon reaching adulthood.[50] | |||
Flying fox (fish) | Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus | ![]() | 16 cm (6.3 in) | ||||
Red-tailed black shark | Epalzeorhynchos bicolor | ![]() | 6 in | ||||
Rainbow shark | Epalzeorhynchos frenatum | ![]() | 6 in | ||||
Cambodian log sucker, false Siamese algae eater | Garra cambodgiensis | ![]() | |||||
algae eater | Gyrinocheilus aymonieri | ![]() | This species may be sold under a variety of common names, including Siamese algae eater, Chinese algae eater, golden algae eater, or sucking loach. A gold colored form also exists. |
Rasboras |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Tank size | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chili rasbora | Boraras brigittae | ![]() | 2 cm (0.79 in) | Should be kept in acidic water which can be difficult to maintain for most beginners in the aquarium hobby.[51] | 5 U.S. gallons (19 L)[51] | 20–28 °C (68–82 °F)[51] | 5-6[51] | |
Espei rasbora | Trigonostigma espei | 5 cm (2.0 in) | ||||||
Harlequin rasbora | Trigonostigma heteromorpha | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | Also known as Harlequin tetra or Harlequin barb. | ||||
Glowlight rasbora | Trigonostigma hengeli | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | |||||
Red-striped rasbora | Trigonopoma pauciperforata | ![]() | 7.5 cm (3.0 in) | Range: Sumatra | 22–29 °C (72–84 °F) | |||
Dwarf rasbora | Boraras maculatus | ![]() | 2.5 cm (0.98 in) | |||||
Eyespot rasbora | Brevibora dorsiocellata | ![]() | 3.5 cm (1.4 in) | |||||
Brilliant rasbora | Rasbora einthovenii | ![]() | 9 cm (3.5 in) | |||||
Clown rasbora | Rasbora kalochroma | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | |||||
Scissortail rasbora | Rasbora trilineata | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | |||||
Volcano rasbora | Rasbora vulcanus | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | |||||
Blackline rasbora, red-tailed rasbora | Rasbora borapetensis | ![]() |
Danios and other danionins |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sundadanio axelrodi | ![]() | 2 cm (0.79 in) | |||||
Pearl danio | Danio albolineatus | ![]() | 6.5 cm (2.6 in) | subspecies:blue-redstripe danio, Kedah danio | |||
Celestial Pearl danio | Danio margaritatus | ![]() | 2 cm (0.79 in) | ||||
Bengal danio, Sind danio | Devario devario | ||||||
Giant danio | Devario aequipinnatus | ![]() | |||||
Malabar danio | Devario malabaricus | ![]() | 11.5–14 cm (4.5–5.5 in) | ||||
Queen danio | Devario regina | ||||||
Spotted danio | Danio nigrofasciatus | ![]() | |||||
Turquoise danio | Danio kerri | ![]() | |||||
Zebra danio | Danio rerio | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | there are many variations of this fish: leopard danio, the spotted colour morph, and GloFish, the genetically modified fluorescent fish. |
Cold-water cyprinids |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Goldfish | Carassius auratus | ![]() | 15+ cm (6+ in) | variations: Black Moor, Bubble Eye, Butterfly Tail, Calico, Celestial Eye, Comet, Common, Fantail, Lionchu, Lionhead, Oranda, Panda Moor, Pearlscale, Pompom, Ranchu, Ryukin, Shubunkin, Telescope eye, Veiltail. | |||
Koi, common carp | Cyprinus carpio | ![]() | 30+ cm (12+ in) | ||||
Bitterling | Rhodeus amarus | ![]() | 10 cm (4 in) | ||||
White Cloud Mountain minnow | Tanichthys albonubes | ![]() | 3.8 cm (1.5 in) | ||||
Red shiner | Cyprinella lutrensis | ![]() | 5–9 cm (2.0–3.5 in) | ||||
Common dace | Leuciscus leuciscus | ![]() | 40 cm (16 in) | 39 to 72 °F (4 to 22 °C) | 6.0 to 8.0 | ||
Rosy red minnow, fathead minnow | Pimephales promelas | ![]() | 5–7.5 cm (2.0–3.0 in) | 10–21 °C (50–70 °F) | 7.0 - 7.5 | ||
Rainbow shiner | Notropis chrosomus | ![]() | |||||
European minnow | Phoxinus phoxinus | ![]() | |||||
Southern redbelly dace | Phoxinus erythrogaster | ![]() | 7.5–10 cm (3.0–3.9 in) | ||||
Tench | Tinca tinca | ![]() | |||||
Golden orfe | Leuciscus idus | ![]() | |||||
Chinese high fin banded shark | Myxocyprinus asiaticus | ![]() | 60 cm (24 in) | ||||
Loaches and related cypriniformes
Loaches |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Saddle-back Loach | Homaloptera orthogoniata | ![]() | 13 cm (5.1 in) | The Saddleback Loach will thrive in an aquarium with a good amount of water flow and aeration, considerable amounts of hiding places formed by rocks or driftwood and smooth pebbles and stones to graze on.[52] | 68 - 78 F (20 - 25.6 C)[52] | 6 - 7.5[52] | |
Fork-tailed loach | Vaillantella maassi | 12.5 cm (4.9 in) | |||||
Horseface loach | Acantopsis dialuzona | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | ||||
Weather Loach[53] | Misgurnus anguillicaudatus[54] | 30 centimetres (12 in) | Sensitive to changes in barometric pressure[55] | ||||
Pangio anguillaris | 12 cm (4.7 in) | ||||||
Kuhli loach, coolie loach | Pangio kuhlii | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | The natural habitat of the kuhli loach is the sandy beds of slow-moving rivers and clean mountain streams. They are a social fish and are typically found in small clusters (they are not schooling fish but enjoy the company of their species), but are cautious and nocturnal by nature and swim near the bottom where they feed around obstacles. Kuhli loaches are scavengers, so they will eat anything that reaches the bottom. | 75–86 °F (24–30 °C) | 5.5 – 6.5 | |
Java loach | Pangio oblonga | ![]() | 8 cm (3.1 in) | 6.2 to 7.0 | |||
Clown loach | Chromobotia macracanthus | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | ||||
Green tiger loach | Syncrossus hymenophysa | 21 cm (8.3 in) | |||||
Banded tiger loach | Syncrossus helodes | ![]() | 30 cm (12 in) | ||||
Redfin tiger loach | Syncrossus berdmorei | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | ||||
Dwarf botia | Ambastaia sidthimunki | ![]() | 5.5 cm (2.2 in) | Formerly named Botia sidthimunki. | |||
Yoyo loach | Botia almorhae | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | ||||
Bengal loach | Botia dario | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | Also known as the Queen loach. | |||
Botia histrionica | ![]() | 12 cm (4.7 in) | |||||
Polka-Dot Loach | Botia kubotai | ![]() | 12 cm (4.7 in) | ||||
Gangetic loach | Botia rostrata | 25 cm (9.8 in) | |||||
Zebra loach | Botia striata | ![]() | 9 cm (3.5 in) | ||||
Redtail loach | Yasuhikotakia modesta | ![]() | 25 cm (9.8 in) | ||||
Skunk loach | Yasuhikotakia morleti | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | Formerly named Botia morleti | |||
Yasuhikotakia splendida | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||||
Borneo hillstream loach | Gastromyzon sp. | ![]() | 6–8 cm (2.4–3.1 in) | Eats mainly algae. High oxygen level and water quality are greatly appreciated in addition to a strong current (but not needed as many sources claim)[56] | 10 U.S. gal (38 L)[57] | 18–25 °C (64–77 °F)[57] | 6.5 – 8.0 pH[57] |
Tiger hillstream loach | Sewellia lineolata | ![]() | 6 cm (2.4 in) | Eats mainly algae. High oxygen level and water quality are greatly appreciated in addition to a strong current (but not needed as many sources claim)[56] | |||
Butterfly hillstream loach | Beaufortia kweichowensis | ![]() | 8 cm (3.1 in) | Eats mainly algae. High oxygen level and water quality are greatly appreciated in addition to a strong current (but not needed as many sources claim)[56] | |||
Live-bearers and killifish
Guppies and mollies |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Guppy | Poecilia reticulata | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | Many color and tail pattern varieties exist. They generally need a ratio of 1 male to 2 females or more. All guppies and mollies are hardy fish that tolerate lower oxygen levels and temperatures than most aquarium fish, give birth to live young, and readily breed in home tanks.[58] can live in full sea water[59] | 66°F - 84°F (19°C - 29°C) | 7 - 8 | |
Endler's livebearer | Poecilia wingei | ![]() | 3.8 cm (1.5 in) | ||||
Black molly | Poecilia sphenops | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | Can live in full sea water[59] | |||
Sailfin molly | Poecilia latipinna | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | Gold and silver varieties commonly found; also thrive in brackish water/ full sea water[59] | |||
Dalmatian molly | hybrid | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | The dalmatian molly is a hybrid color variation that can be generated by crossing some species of Poecilia, like P. sphenops and P. latipinna. The variety "Dalmatian" is spotted alike to a Dalmatian dog. Can live in full sea water[59] | |||
Lyretail Molly | hybrid | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | Lyretail Mollies are available in all of these species, can be cross bred with any species of Molly. Can live in full sea water[59] |
Platies and swordtails |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Southern platy | Xiphophorus maculatus | ![]() | 6 cm (2.4 in) | ||||
Variable platy | Xiphophorus variatus | ![]() | 6 cm (2.4 in) | ||||
Green swordtail | Xiphophorus hellerii | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | ||||
Other Livebearers, like Gambusia |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Largescale four-eyed fish | Anableps anableps | ![]() | |||||
Pike topminnow | Belonesox belizanus | ![]() | |||||
Cuban lima | Limia vittata | ![]() | |||||
Knife livebearer | Alfaro cultratus | ![]() | |||||
Least killifish | Heterandria formosa | ![]() | |||||
Tanganyika killifish | Lamprichthys tanganicanus | ![]() | |||||
Norman's lampeye | Poropanchax normani | ![]() | |||||
Celebes halfbeak | Nomorhamphus liemi | ![]() | 8 cm (3.1 in) | ||||
Wrestling halfbeak | Dermogenys pusilla | ![]() | 7.5 cm (3.0 in)[60] | Wrestling Halfbeaks are best kept in groups, composed of either a single male with several females, or, in more spacious quarters with ample visual barriers, larger mixed groups containing at least six males. | 75-82 F (24-28 C) [60] | 7 - 8[60] | |
Forest halfbeak | Hemirhamphodon pogonognathus | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Killifish |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Blue Lyretail | Fundulopanchax gardneri | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | ||||
Clown Killifish, rocket killifish | Epiplatys annulatus | ![]() | 3.5 cm (1.4 in) | However, for natural behaviour, a dozen individuals kept in an aquarium of at least 50 litres will be ideal. Compose your group with a ratio of one male to two or three females.
For maintenance with other species, choose small, peaceful fish that like stagnant water (no Cory doras!).[61] |
50 L (13 U.S. gal)[61] | 25–27 °C (77–81 °F)[61] | 6 - 7 pH[61] |
Bluefin Notho, Rachow's Notho, Rainbow Notho | Nothobranchius rachovii | ![]() | 6 cm (2.4 in) | ||||
Striped panchax, Golden Wonder | Aplocheilus lineatus | ![]() | |||||
American Flagfish | Jordanella floridae | ![]() | Native to SE United States | ||||
Argentine Pearl | Austrolebias nigripinnis | ![]() | |||||
Golden Toppminnow | Fundulus chrysotus | ![]() | |||||
Northern Studfish | Fundulus catenatus | ![]() | |||||
Red-seam Killifish | Aphyosemion calliurum | ||||||
Arabian Killifish | Aphanius dispar | ||||||
Labyrinth fish
Gourami |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ceylonese combtail | Belontia signata | ![]() | 18 cm (7.1 in) | ||||
Siamese fighting fish (sometimes Betta, esp. US) | Betta splendens | ![]() | 7.5 cm (3.0 in) | Betta is the name of the genus that includes more than 60 species other than the Siamese fighting fish. | 5 gal [62] | 72–82 °F (22–28 °C)[62] | 6.5-7.5[62] |
Frail gourami | Ctenops nobilis | ![]() | 4 cm (1.6 in) | ||||
Paradise fish | Macropodus opercularis | ![]() | 7.5 cm (3.0 in) | ||||
Ornate paradisefish | Malpulutta kretseri | ![]() | 4 cm (1.6 in) | ||||
Eyespot gourami | Parasphaerichthys ocellatus | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | ||||
Brown Spike-tailed paradisefish | Pseudosphromenus dayi | ![]() | 4 cm (1.6 in) | ||||
Honey gourami | Trichogaster chuna | ![]() | 5.5 cm (2.2 in) | ||||
Dwarf gourami | Trichogaster lalius | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | Suitable for small to mid-sized aquariums but cannot compete with more aggressive fish and males kept together may fight. Several color varieties available. Massive inbreeding has led to high rates of Dwarf gourami iridovirus (DGIV) in pet store fish.[63] | 72 – 82°F (22 – 27°C) [64] | 6 - 7.5[64] | |
Moonlight gourami | Trichopodus microlepis | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | ||||
Snakeskin gourami | Trichopodus pectoralis | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | ||||
Pygmy gourami, Sparkling gourami | Trichopsis pumila | ![]() | 3.8 cm (1.5 in) | ||||
Malay combtail | Belontia hasselti | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | ||||
Slender betta | Betta bellica | 9 cm (3.5 in) | |||||
Betta burdigala | 3.5 cm (1.4 in) | ||||||
Scarlet betta | Betta coccina | ![]() | 4 cm (1.6 in) | ||||
Crescent betta | Betta imbellis | ![]() | 6 cm (2.4 in) | ||||
Betta miniopinna | 3.5 cm (1.4 in) | ||||||
Toba betta | Betta rubra | 4 cm (1.6 in) | |||||
Betta simorum | ![]() | 9 cm (3.5 in) | |||||
Giant Pikehead | Luciocephalus pulcher | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | ||||
Parosphromenus phoenicurus | ![]() | 3 cm (1.2 in) | |||||
Chocolate gourami | Sphaerichthys osphromenoides | ![]() | 6 cm (2.4 in) | ||||
Crossband chocolate gourami | Sphaerichthys selatanensis | 4 cm (1.6 in) | |||||
Samurai gourami | Sphaerichthys vaillanti | ![]() | 4 cm (1.6 in) | ||||
Pearl gourami | Trichopodus leerii | ![]() | 11.5 cm (4.5 in) | ||||
Three spot gourami | Trichopodus trichopterus | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Croaking gourami | Trichopsis vittata | ![]() | 6.5 cm (2.6 in) | ||||
Giant gourami | Osphronemus goramy | ![]() | 60 cm (24 in) | ||||
Other labyrinth fishes |
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Kissing gourami | Helostoma temminckii | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | ||||
Climbing perch | Anabas testudineus | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | ||||
Leopard bush fish | Ctenopoma acutirostre | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | ||||
African leaffish | Polycentropsis abbreviata | 8 cm (3.1 in) | |||||
Blue badis | Badis badis | ![]() | 7 cm (2.8 in) | ||||
Scarlet badis | Dario dario | ![]() | 1.5 cm (0.59 in) | ||||
Bornean leaffish | Nandus nebulosus | 12 cm (4.7 in) | |||||
Malayan leaffish | Pristolepis fasciata | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | ||||
Forest snakehead | Channa lucius | ![]() | 40 cm (16 in) | Illegal to possess live in the USA without a permit[65] | |||
Dwarf snakehead | Channa gachua | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | Illegal to possess live in the USA without a permit[65] | |||
Emperor snakehead | Channa marulioides | 65 cm (26 in) | Illegal to possess live in the USA without a permit[65] | ||||
Giant snakehead | Channa micropeltes | ![]() | 130 cm (51 in) | Illegal to possess live in the USA without a permit[65] | |||
Ocellated snakehead | Channa pleurophthalma | ![]() | 35 cm (14 in) | Illegal to possess live in the USA without a permit[65] | |||
African snakehead | Parachanna obscura | ![]() | 50 cm (20 in) | Illegal to possess live in the USA without a permit[65] |
Rainbowfish
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Red rainbowfish | Glossolepis incisus | ![]() | 9–13 cm (3.5–5.1 in) | Almost all rainbowfish species are bred in captivity and wild populations may be protected.[66] | |||
Lake Wanam rainbowfish | Glossolepis wanamensis | ![]() | 9 cm (3.5 in) | ||||
Threadfin rainbowfish | Iriatherina werneri | ![]() | 3–4 cm (1.2–1.6 in) | ||||
New Guinea rainbowfish | Melanotaenia affinis | 13 cm (5.1 in) | |||||
Western rainbowfish | Melanotaenia australis | ![]() | 11 cm (4.3 in) | ||||
Boeseman's rainbowfish | Melanotaenia boesemani | ![]() | 10–13 cm (3.9–5.1 in) | ||||
Duboulayi's rainbowfish | Melanotaenia duboulayi | ![]() | 13–15 cm (5.1–5.9 in) | a.k.a. Crimson-Spotted rainbowfish | |||
Australian rainbowfish | Melanotaenia fluviatilis | ![]() | 13–15 cm (5.1–5.9 in) | ||||
Lake Tebera rainbowfish | Melanotaenia herbertaxelrodi | ![]() | 9 cm (3.5 in) | ||||
Lake Kutubu rainbowfish | Melanotaenia lacustris | ![]() | 12 cm (4.7 in) | ||||
Lake Kurumoi rainbowfish | Melanotaenia parva | ![]() | 7.5–8 cm (3.0–3.1 in) | ||||
Neon rainbowfish | Melanotaenia praecox | ![]() | 6–7.5 cm (2.4–3.0 in) | ||||
Eastern rainbowfish | Melanotaenia splendida splendida | ![]() | 13–15 cm (5.1–5.9 in) | ||||
Banded rainbowfish | Melanotaenia trifasciata | ![]() | 13 cm (5.1 in) | ||||
Celebes rainbow | Marosatherina ladigesi | ![]() | 8 cm (3.1 in) | ||||
Forktail blue-eye | Pseudomugil furcatus | ![]() | 4–5 cm (1.6–2.0 in) | These fish need a larger aquarium than their size suggests. Though they only grow to a length of about 2 inches, they are happiest in groups of 8 – 10 or more, and they appreciate lots of swimming space.[67] | 75 - 79°F (24 - 26°C) [67] | 6.5 - 8.0[67] | |
Spotted blue-eye | Pseudomugil gertrudae | ![]() | 3–4 cm (1.2–1.6 in) | ||||
Red neon blue-eye | Pseudomugil luminatus | 3–3.5 cm (1.2–1.4 in) | |||||
Pacific blue-eye | Pseudomugil signifer | ![]() | 3.5–7 cm (1.4–2.8 in) | ||||
Delicate blue-eye | Pseudomugil tenellus | 4–5.5 cm (1.6–2.2 in) | |||||
Madagascar rainbowfish | Bedotia madagascariensis | ![]() | 7.5–8 cm (3.0–3.1 in) | ||||
Gobies and sleepers
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Empire gudgeon | Hypseleotris compressa | ![]() | 12 cm (4.7 in) | ||||
Purple sleeper gudgeon | Mogurnda mogurnda | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | ||||
Peacock gudgeon, Peacock goby | Tateurndina ocellicauda | ![]() | 7.5 cm (3.0 in) | A little territorial with its own kind but is suitable for many communities of small, peaceful fish. Ideal tankmates are other species from Papua New Guinea, such as Popondetta sp. rainbowfishes; but tetras, rasboras, Corydoras cats and virtually any other small peaceful species are also suitable. [68] | 40 L (11 U.S. gal)[68] | 22–26 °C (72–79 °F)[68] | 6.5 7.5 pH[68] |
Black toraja goby | Mugilogobius sarasinorum | ||||||
Bumblebee goby | Brachygobius doriae | ![]() | 4 cm (1.6 in) | ||||
Knight goby | Stigmatogobius sadanundio | ![]() | 9 cm (3.5 in) | ||||
Rainbow stiphodon | Stiphodon ornatus | ![]() | 5 cm (2.0 in) | ||||
Cobalt blue goby | Stiphodon semoni | 4–5 cm (1.6–2.0 in) | |||||
Sicyopus zosterophorus | ![]() | 4–4.5 cm (1.6–1.8 in) | |||||
Bearded worm goby | Taenioides cirratus | 30 cm (12 in) | |||||
Marbled goby | Oxyeleotris marmorata | ![]() | 30–65 cm (12–26 in) | ||||
Crazy fish | Butis butis | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | ||||
Rhinogobius duospilus | ![]() | ||||||
Dragon goby, Violet goby | Gobioides broussonnetii | ![]() | |||||
Striped sleeper goby | Dormitator maculatus | ![]() | |||||
Sunfish and relatives
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pygmy sunfish | Elassomatidae | ![]() | 4 cm (1.6 in) | ||||
Blackbanded sunfish | Enneacanthus chaetodon | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Blue-spotted sunfish | Enneacanthus gloriosus | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Redbreast sunfish | Lepomis auritus | ![]() | 30 cm (12 in) | ||||
Green sunfish | Lepomis cyanellus | ![]() | 25 cm (9.8 in) | ||||
Orangespotted sunfish | Lepomis humilis | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | ||||
Pumpkinseed | Lepomis gibbosus | ![]() | 28 cm (11 in) | ||||
Warmouth | Lepomis gulosus | ![]() | 30 cm (12 in) | ||||
Bluegill | Lepomis macrochirus | ![]() | 41 cm (16 in) | ||||
Dollar sunfish | Lepomis marginatus | ![]() | 12 cm (4.7 in) | ||||
Longear sunfish | Lepomis megalotis | ![]() | 24 cm (9.4 in) | ||||
Redear sunfish | Lepomis microlophus | ![]() | 40 cm (16 in) | ||||
Redspotted sunfish | Lepomis miniatus | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | ||||
Northern sunfish | Lepomis peltastes | ![]() | 13 cm (5.1 in) | ||||
Spotted sunfish | Lepomis punctatus | ![]() | 10 cm (3.9 in) | ||||
Other fish
Common name | Scientific name | Image | Size | Remarks | Tank size | Temperature range | pH range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Gray bichir, Senegal bichir, or dinosaur bichir | Polypterus senegalus | ![]() | 70.0 cm (27.6 in) maximum length[69]40.0 centimetres (15.7 in) in captivity[70] | Peaceful but preys on anything smaller than its mouth[71] | 25–28 °C (77–82 °F)[69] | 6.0-8.0[69] | |
Ornate bichir | Polypterus ornatipinnis | ![]() | 60 cm (24 in) maximum length[72] | Peaceful but preys on anything smaller than its mouth[71] | 26–28 °C (79–82 °F)[72] | 6.0–8.0 | |
Retropinnis bichir | Polypterus retropinnis | 34.0 cm (13.4 in)[73] | Peaceful but preys on anything smaller than its mouth[71] | 26–28 °C (79–82 °F) | 6.5–7.5 | ||
Barred bichir | Polypterus delhezi | ![]() | 35 cm (14 in) | Peaceful but preys on anything smaller than its mouth[71] | 24–30 °C (75–86 °F) | 6-8 | |
Saddled bichir | Polypterus endlicheri | ![]() | 63 cm (25 in)[74] | Peaceful but preys on anything smaller than its mouth[71] | 22–27 °C (72–81 °F) | 6-8 | |
Reedfish | Erpetoichthys calabaricus | ![]() | 31.4 cm (12.4 in) at maturity, 37 centimetres (15 in) maximum length[75] | 22–28 °C (72–82 °F)[75] | 6.0–8.0[75] | ||
Hingemouth | Phractolaemus ansorgii | 25 cm (9.8 in) | |||||
Blunt-jawed elephantnose | Campylomormyrus tamandua | ![]() | 40 cm (16 in) | ||||
Peters' elephant nose | Gnathonemus petersii | ![]() | 22.5 cm (8.9 in) | ||||
African butterflyfish | Pantodon buchholzi | ![]() | 12 cm (4.7 in) | ||||
Aba aba | Gymnarchus niloticus | ![]() | 120 cm (47 in) | ||||
Reticulated knifefish | Papyrocranus afer | 80 cm (31 in) | |||||
African brown knifefish | Xenomystus nigri | ![]() | 30 cm (12 in) | ||||
Clown knifefish | Chitala ornata | ![]() | |||||
Asian arowana | Scleropages formosus | ![]() | 90 cm (35 in) | Preys on anything smaller than its mouth.[76] | |||
Silver arowana | Osteoglossum bicirrhosum | ![]() | 90 cm (35 in) | Preys on anything smaller than its mouth.[76] | |||
Freshwater pipefish | Doryichthys martensii | 15 cm (5.9 in) | |||||
African freshwater pipefish | Enneacampus ansorgii | 14 cm (5.5 in) | |||||
Fire eel | Mastacembelus erythrotaenia | ![]() | 100 cm (39 in) | ||||
Tire track eel | Mastacembelus armatus | ![]() | 90 cm (35 in) | ||||
Spotfinned spiny eel | Macrognathus siamensis | ![]() | 30 cm (12 in) | They require clean water and are vulnerable to parasites, fungal diseases, and the copper-based drugs used to treat these conditions.[77] | 73-82°F (23-28°C)[78] | 6.0-8.0[78] | |
Half-banded spiny eel | Macrognathus circumcinctus | 20 cm (7.9 in) | |||||
Lesser spiny eel | Macrognathus aculeatus | 38 cm (15 in) | |||||
Freshwater sole | Brachirus panoides | ![]() | 20 cm (8 in) | ||||
Freshwater needlefish | Xenentodon cancila | ![]() | 35 cm (14 in) | ||||
Javanese ricefish | Oryzias javanicus | ![]() | 3.5 cm (1.4 in) | ||||
Daisy's Ricefish | Oryzias woworae | ![]() | 2.5–3 cm (0.98–1.18 in) | ||||
Indian glassy fish | Parambassis ranga | ![]() | 8 cm (3.1 in) | ||||
Amazon leaffish | Monocirrhus polyacanthus | ![]() | 8 cm (3.1 in) | ||||
Gymnochanda filamentosa | 3.8 cm (1.5 in) | ||||||
Indonesian tigerfish | Datnioides microlepis | ![]() | 45 cm (18 in) | ||||
Silver tigerfish | Datnioides polota | ![]() | 30 cm (12 in) | ||||
Banded archerfish | Toxotes jaculatrix | ![]() | 30 cm (12 in) | ||||
Spotted scat | Scatophagus argus | ![]() | 20 cm (7.9 in) | ||||
Green spotted puffer | Dichotomyctere nigroviridis | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | Pufferfish inflating out of water can cause death.[79] | |||
Humpback Puffer | Pao palembangensis | 20 cm (7.9 in) | See above | ||||
Red-tail dwarf puffer | Carinotetraodon irrubesco | ![]() | 4.5 cm (1.8 in) | See above | |||
Golden puffer | Auriglobus modestus | 10 cm (3.9 in) | See above | ||||
Figure 8 pufferfish | Tetraodon biocellatus | ![]() | 6 cm (2.4 in) | ||||
Dwarf pufferfish | Carinotetraodon travancoricus | ![]() | 2.9 cm (1.1 in) | aka Pea Puffer | |||
Fahaka puffer | Tetraodon lineatus | ![]() | 1-foot 5 inches | ||||
Mbu puffer | Tetraodon mbu | ![]() | 75 cm (30 in) | This fish also occurs in estuaries. largest freshwater pufferfish, they are very peaceful with most fish except, other Mbu pufferfish, other fish that will harass them. see above[80] | |||
Congo pufferfish | Tetraodon miurus | ![]() | 15 cm (5.9 in) | as it is a ambush pufferfish it is best to house it alone as it will attack tank mates. see above[81] | |||
Amazon puffer | Colomesus asellus | ![]() | |||||
West African lungfish | Protopterus annectens | ![]() | 100 cm (39 in) | ||||
Spotted lungfish | Protopterus dolloi | ![]() | 130 cm (51 in) | ||||
South American lungfish | Lepidosiren paradoxa | ![]() | 125 cm (49 in) | ||||
Ocellate river stingray | Potamotrygon motoro | ![]() | has venomous barbs that contain a protein based poison, if you happen to accidentally get stung you should submerge the wound in as hot as water as you can as this breaks down the protein[82] | ||||
Black devil stingray | Potamotrygon leopoldi | ![]() | see above | ||||
Black ghost knifefish | Apteronotus albifrons | ![]() | 20 in | Not to be confused with the featherback "knifefish" of the Bonytongue group (see above) | 23-28C (73-82F) | 6.0-8.0 | |
Brown ghost knifefish | Apteronotus leptorhynchus | ||||||
Electric eel | Electrophorus electricus | ![]() | |||||
Glass knifefish | Eigenmannia virescens | ![]() | |||||
Sterlet | Acipenser ruthenus | ![]() | |||||
Shovelnose Sturgeon | Scaphirhynchus platorynchus | ![]() | |||||
Spotted Gar | Lepisosteus oculatus | ![]() | 70 cm (27.5 in) | ||||
Longnose Gar | Lepisosteus osseus | ![]() | |||||
Florida Gar | Lepisosteus platyrhincus | ![]() | 70 cm (27.5 in) | ||||
Alligator Gar | Atractosteus spatula | ![]() | 300 cm (118 in) | ||||
Cuban Gar | Atractosteus tristoechus | ![]() | 200 cm (78.5 in) | ||||
Tropical Gar | Atractosteus tropicus | ![]() | 150 cm (59 in) | ||||
Freshwater blenny | Salaria fluviatilis | ![]() | |||||
Pickerel | Esox americanus | ![]() | |||||
Brook stickleback | Culaea inconstans | ![]() | |||||
European Perch | Perca fluviatilis | ![]() | |||||
Banded darter | Etheostoma zonale | ||||||
Gilt darter | Percina evides | ![]() | |||||
Orangethroat darter | Etheostoma spectabile | ![]() | |||||
Rainbow darter | Etheostoma caeruleum | ![]() | |||||
Splendid darter | Etheostoma barrenense | ||||||
See also
- List of aquarium fish by scientific name
- List of brackish aquarium fish species
- List of fish common names
- List of freshwater aquarium amphibian species
- List of freshwater aquarium invertebrate species
- List of freshwater aquarium plant species
- List of marine aquarium fish species
- List of marine aquarium invertebrate species
- The Aquarium Wiki Encyclopaedia List of Freshwater aquarium fish
- Non-fish organisms commonly kept in freshwater including:
- Red Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi)
- Dwarf Crayfish (Cambarellus spp.)
- Marbled Crayfish (Procambarus virginalis)
Sources
![](../I/Commons-logo.svg.png.webp)
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Freshwater aquarium fish.
- Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish (2005) (David Alderton)
- 500 Aquarium Fish: A Visual Reference to the Most Popular Species
References
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