Aquarium hobbyists have a Wide Range of freshwater fish species to choose from when setting up their tanks. Some are small and peaceful, while others are larger and more aggressive. With so many options available, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we have compiled a list of the 50 most famous freshwater aquarium fish to help you to make a selection.

Here we are going to see types of freshwater aquarium fish list, Exotic freshwater fish, Aquarium freshwater fish list with pictures, small aquarium fish names, Best Aquarium Fish, and Tropical fish species for tank. However, it’s important to note that each fish has unique requirements and temperaments, and not all of them will be suitable for every aquarium setup. Before adding any fish to your tank, Research its needs and compatibility with other fishes. Additionally, this list is not exhaustive, and there are many other interesting freshwater fishes out there that could make great additions to your aquarium.

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Live Bearers Freshwater Aquarium Fish List

Livebearers are relatively easy to care for and adapt well to various water conditions. They are also quite hardy, making them an excellent choice for beginners. However, it is essential to note that different species have different requirements, such as water temperature, pH, and hardness, so it is a must to research each species’ specific needs. Fishes in Live Bearers freshwater aquarium fish list, will deliver fries instead of eggs. Mostly they will be non-aggressive freshwater aquarium fish.

1. Guppies Fish

Guppies are relatively easy to care for and adapt to various water conditions. They prefer warm water with a pH between 6.8 and 7.8 and can thrive in freshwater and brackish water. They are omnivorous and can eat more foods, including flakes, pellets, frozen, and live foods.

2. Molly Fish

Mollies are livebearers, which means they give birth to live young instead of laying eggs. They are also prolific breeders, with females giving birth to 20-100 fry at a time. This makes them an excellent choice for breeding and adding new generations of fish to your aquarium.

3. Platy Fish

One of the most notable features of platy fish is their peaceful nature. They are non-aggressive and can be kept with other peaceful species in a community tank. Platy fish are also easy to care for and can adapt to a various water conditions. They prefer slightly alkaline water with a pH between 7.0 and 8.2 and a temperature between 68°F and 82°F.

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4. Swordtail Fish

Swordtail fish prefer slightly alkaline water with a pH between 7.0 and 8.0 and a water temperature between 72°F and 82°F. They are omnivorous and can eat a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods.

Exotic Freshwater Aquarium Fish List

Exotic freshwater aquarium fish are species that are not typically found in the local waterways or pet stores and are often imported from other countries. They are popular among aquarium enthusiasts for their unique colors, and shapes, and behaviors, and can add a vibrant element to any aquarium.

5. Discus Fish

The Discus fish is a popular and highly sought-after species among aquarium enthusiasts. It is known for its round, disc-shaped body, and vibrant colors, which can range from shades of red, blue, green, and yellow. Discus fish are native to the Amazon Basin in South America and are known for their social behavior and calmful nature. They are often kept in groups of 6 or more and require a large tank with plenty of hiding places and plant cover.

6. Wolf Cichlid Fish

The Wolf Cichlid fish, also known as the Dovii Cichlid, is a large and aggressive freshwater species native to Central America. It is known for its impressive size, reaching up to 2 feet in length, and its bold and aggressive temperament.

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7. Blue Rainbow Snakehead Fish

Blue Rainbow Snakehead Fish require a large, well-filtered aquarium with plenty of swimming space and hiding places. They are carnivorous and require a diet of live or frozen foods such as shrimp, worms, and small fish. They may also accept pellets and flakes, but live or frozen foods are preferred.

Blue Rainbow Snakehead Fish are aggressive and should only be kept with other similarly sized and aggressive fish. They may also attack smaller fish that invade their territory. They are not suitable for community aquariums and are best kept in species-specific aquariums or with other large, aggressive fish.

8. Dwarf Puffer Fish

The Dwarf Puffer Fish, also known as the Pea Puffer, is a small freshwater species native to South Asia. It is a popular and highly sought-after species among aquarium enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and curious nature.

Dwarf Puffer Fish are small in size, typically growing up to 1-2 inches in length, and require a small tank with plenty of hiding places and live plants. They are known for their ability to puff themselves up when threatened, which makes them a unique species to observe.

9. Zebra Plecos Fish

One of the unique features of Zebra Pleco fish is their diet, as they are primarily carnivorous and require a diet that is rich in protein. They can be like a type of live or frozen foods, such as bloodworms, Brine shrimp, and small snails.

10. Black Ghost Knife Fish

The Black Ghost Knife Fish is a unique and striking freshwater species. It is known for its long, narrow body shape and its distinctive black coloration, which can appear iridescent under proper lighting. Black Ghost Knife Fish are nocturnal and often hide during the day, so they need a tank with plenty of hiding places and a dimly lit environment. They can grow up to 20 inches in span and require a large aquarium with clean, well-oxygenated water.

11. Bubble Eye Gold Fish

The Bubble Eye Goldfish is a unique and captivating freshwater fish that is popular among aquarium enthusiasts. It is known for its distinctive appearance, characterized by two large, fluid-filled sacs on either side of its head that resemble bubbles.

Bubble Eye Goldfish are typically small, growing up to 6 inches in span, and require a tank with clean, well-oxygenated water and plenty of hiding places. They are peaceful and can be in a community tank with other non-aggressive species.

12. Red Parrot Fish

Red Parrot Fish require a tank with clean, well-oxygenated water and plenty of hiding places, as they can be somewhat skittish and prefer a peaceful environment. They are omnivorous and can be like a change of commercial flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods, such as brine shrimp and bloodworms.

One of the unique features of Red Parrot Fish is their mouth, which is small and often deformed due to the hybridization process. It can make it difficult for them to eat certain foods and may require special attention to their diet.

13. Freshwater String Rays

Freshwater Stingrays are an exotic and fascinating species becoming increasingly popular among aquarium enthusiasts. They are known for their unique appearance, characterized by their flattened, disc-shaped body and long, whip-like tail with a venomous barbs.

14. Archer Fish

Archers fish are a unique and fascinating species of freshwater fish known for their ability to shoot down prey with a stream of water. They are native to Southeast Asia and Australia and are often found in brackish or freshwater environments with slow-moving or stagnant water.

Archers Fish have a specialized mouth that is designed to form a small, narrow channel for shooting water at their prey. They typically feed on insects, small crustaceans, and other small aquatic animals that are found near the surface of the water.

Monster Freshwater Aquarium Fish List

Monster freshwater aquarium fish refer to species of large fish that are commonly kept in home aquariums. These fish are known for their impressive size, unique appearance, and often aggressive behavior. Some popular examples of monster fish in freshwater include:

15. Redtail Catfish

Redtail Catfish require a large aquarium with plenty of space to swim and move around. They are carnivorous and require a diet of meaty foods such as fish, shrimp, and squid. It is essential to provide them with a varied diet to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients.

Redtail Catfish can be aggressive towards others and may require a solitary life in the aquarium. They also needed a stable filtration system to maintain clean water and prevent harmful ammonia buildup.

16. Tiger Shovelnose Catfish

These catfish are highly prized by aquarium hobbyists due to their impressive size, striking appearance, and active nature. However, they are not recommended for beginner fishkeepers as they require a large aquarium (at least 250 gallons) with plenty of hiding places and strong filtration.

17. Iridescent Shark

Iridescent Sharks are known for their shiny, iridescent scales and their large size, which can reach up to 4 feet in length in the wild. In captivity, they require a large aquarium with plenty of space to swim and move around. They are omnivorous and require a diet of both plant and meaty foods, such as shrimp, and vegetables.

18. Arowana Fish

The Arowana Fish, also known as the Dragon Fish, is a freshwater fish native to South America, Asia, and Australia. They are known for their long, sleek body and it is an impressivesize, which can reach up to 3 feet in length in the wild.

In captivity, Arowana Fish require a large aquarium with plenty of space to swim and move around. They are carnivorous and require a diet of meaty foods such as small fish, shrimp, and insects. It is essential to provide them with a varied diet to ensure that they receive all the necessary nutrients.

19. Clown Knifefish

Clown Knifefish are nocturnal and prefer to be active during the night. They are peaceful one and can be kept in groups in the aquarium. However, they may become aggressive towards others if they feel threatened or if they are not provided with enough space to swim.

Due to their large size and specific care requirements, Clown Knifefish are not recommended for novice aquarists or those with limited space. They require a dedicated and experienced owner who can provide them with the proper care and attention they need to thrive in captivity.

20. Black Pacu Fish

Black Pacu requires a large aquarium with plenty of space to swim and move around. They are omnivorous and require a diet of both plant and animal-based foods, including vegetables, fruits, and insects. It is important to provide them with a varied diet to ensure that they receive all the necessary nutrients.

Black Pacu are peaceful fish and can be kept in groups in the aquarium. However, they may become aggressive towards other fish if they feel threatened or if they are not provided with enough space to swim.

21. Giant Gourami Fish

Giant Gourami is peaceful fish and can be kept in groups in the aquarium. However, they may become territorial towards other fish if they feel threatened or if they are not provided with enough space to swim. They are also known to be very intelligent and can recognize their owners and respond to commands.

22. Oscar Fish

The Oscar Fish, also known as the Velvet Cichlid, is a freshwater fish native to South America. They are popular in the aquarium hobby due to their unique appearance, with a large, oval-shaped body and vibrant colors ranging from orange, yellow, and red to black.

In captivity, Oscar Fish require a large aquarium with plenty of space to swim and move around. They are carnivorous and require a diet of high-quality pellets, live or frozen foods such as shrimp or worms, and occasional treats such as small pieces of meat or vegetables.

23. Piranha Fish

Piranhas are known for their aggressive behavior towards others in the aquarium. Therefore, they are best kept alone or with other Piranhas of the same species in a large aquarium with plenty of hiding places. It is important to note that Piranhas can inflict serious injuries with their sharp teeth, so handling them should be done with extreme care.

24. Goliath Tiger Fish

The Goliath Tiger Fish, also known as the Giant Tigerfish, is a large freshwater fish native to African rivers such as the Congo and Zambezi. They are known for their impressive size, predatory behavior, and sharp teeth.

In the aquarium hobby, Goliath Tiger Fish are highly sought after due to their unique appearance and reputation as fierce predators. However, they are not recommended for most aquarium hobbyists, as they require a very large aquarium with plenty of space to swim and move around.

Aggressive Freshwater Aquarium Fish List

Aggressive freshwater aquarium fish are species known for their territorial behavior, aggressive tendencies towards other fish, and their potential to harm or even kill other fish in the aquarium. These fish require careful consideration before being added to an aquarium and are typically recommended for experienced aquarists.

25. Tiger Barb

Tiger Barbs require a well-filtered aquarium with plenty of swimming space and hiding places. They are omnivores and require a varied diet of high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp or bloodworms.

Tiger Barbs are known for their sometimes aggressive behavior toward other fish in the aquarium, particularly those with long fins or slow-moving fish. They are best kept with other active, similar-sized fish in a school, and should not be kept with long-finned or slow-moving species.

26. Red Tail Shark Fish

Redtail Sharks are known for their territorial behavior and can be aggressive towards other fish in the aquarium, particularly those with similar coloration or body shape. They are best kept in a species-only tank or with other fast-swimming, similarly-sized fish.

27. Bucktooth Tetra Fish

Bucktooth Tetras are a fascinating and unique addition to many aquariums. They require careful consideration before being added to an aquarium and are best suited for experienced aquarists who are prepared to provide the proper care and attention required for these challenging and often aggressive species.

28. African Knife Fish

African Knife Fish are nocturnal and prefer to be kept in a dimly lit aquarium. They are known for their peaceful and solitary nature and can be kept with other similarly sized and peaceful fish. However, they are also known for their predatory behavior and can be aggressive toward smaller fish.

29. Flowerhorn Cichlid Fish

One of the unique features of Flowerhorn Cichlid fish is their responsiveness to human interaction, as they can be trained to recognize their owners and may even perform tricks. They are also known for their hardiness and adaptability, making them a popular choice for beginner and experienced aquarium enthusiasts alike.

30. Jaguar Cichlid Fish

Jaguar Cichlids are a popular and impressive addition to many aquariums. They are relatively easy to care for but require careful consideration before being added to an aquarium due to their aggressive nature. They are best suited for experienced aquarists who are prepared to provide the proper care and attention required for these challenging and often aggressive species.

31. Betta Fish

Betta Fish are relatively easy to care for and are ideal for small aquariums, making them a popular choice for beginners and experienced fish keepers alike.

Bettas are Best Pet Fish. They prefer warm water temperatures ranging from 75-82°F and require a minimum tank size of 2.5 gallons. Bettas are carnivorous and require a varied diet of high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.

32. Puffer Fish Variety

Pufferfish can make fascinating and entertaining aquarium pets, they require specialized care and should only be kept by experienced fish keepers. Pufferfish can be aggressive towards other fish and should be housed alone or with other non-aggressive species. They also require a well-maintained aquarium with excellent filtration and water quality to thrive.

33. Jewel Cichlid Fish

Jewel Cichlids can be relatively easy, and they are known for their parental care of their young. They will lay their eggs on a flat surface and guard them fiercely until they hatch. The young fry can be fed on small live foods, such as brine shrimp or crushed flakes. Overall, Jewel Cichlids are a beautiful and fascinating species that can provide a lot of enjoyment for hobbyists.

34. Green Severum Fish

Green Severums have a distinctive greenish coloration on their body, which is complemented by red or orange patches on their cheeks and gill plates. They have a round, disk-shaped body and can grow up to 8 inches in length. Green Severums are generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish of similar size.

Small Freshwater Aquarium Fish List

Small aquarium fish are relatively easy to care for and can be kept in groups, making them an excellent choice for beginners. They require a well-maintained aquarium with appropriate water conditions, filtration, and regular feeding. While they may not be as visually impressive as larger fish, their vibrant colors and active behavior make them a popular choice for many hobbyists.

35. Gouramis Fish

Gouramis are labyrinth fish, which means they have a specialized organ that allows them to breathe air from the surface of the water. This adaptation makes them well-suited to low-oxygen environments, but they still require a well-maintained aquarium with appropriate water conditions and filtration.

36. Chili Rasbora Fish

Chili rasbora fish, also known as the Mosquito rasbora or Boraras Brigitte, is a small, brightly colored freshwater fish native to Southeast Asia. They are a popular choice for planted aquariums due to their small size, peaceful temperament, and attractive appearance.

Adult chili rasboras grow to only about 0.6-0.8 inches in length and have a bright red coloration with a black tail and eyes. They are social fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6-8 individuals. They prefer a densely planted tank with plenty of hiding places and slow-moving water.

37. Neon Tetra Fish

The neon tetra is a popular freshwater aquarium fish known for its bright neon-blue and red stripes. They are native to the streams and tributaries of the Amazon basin in South America.

Neon tetras are peaceful, schooling fish that prefer to be kept in groups of at least six individuals. They are easy to care for and require a well-maintained aquarium with stable water parameters. The water temperature should be between 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 26°C), and the pH level should be between 6.0 to 7.5.

38. Angel Fish

Angel Fish are generally peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful community fish, but can become aggressive toward each other if they are housed in a small tank. They require a spacious aquarium with plenty of hiding places and plants to recreate their natural habitat.

Angel Fish are omnivorous and should be fed a balanced diet of both meaty and plant-based foods, including live or frozen foods, flakes, and pellets.

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39. Common Gold Fish

Common Goldfish are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, making them ideal for beginners. Common Gold Fish known as friendliest aquarium fish. They are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, and vegetables.

These fish are best kept in a spacious aquarium with plenty of room to swim and hide. They are social and can be kept in groups, but care should be taken to avoid overcrowding.

40. Killifish

There are many different species of killifish in freshwater aquarium fish list, ranging in size from less than an inch to several inches in length. They are typically peaceful and can be kept in community tanks with other small, non-aggressive fish. Some species of killifish, such as the popular Aphyosemion gardneri, are known for their ability to jump, so it is important to keep a tight-fitting lid on the aquarium.

41. Zebra Danio Fish

Zebra Danios are a hardy and active fish species that can adapt to a wide range of aquarium conditions. They are relatively small, growing up to 2-2.5 inches (5-6 cm) in length, and are suitable for community aquariums. They are best kept in groups of 6 or more and require a minimum tank size of 10 gallons.

42. Panda Corydoras Fish

Panda Corydoras are easy to care for and are suitable for beginners. They are peaceful and do well in community tanks with other peaceful fish. They are also hardy and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, although they prefer slightly acidic water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

They are bottom-dwellers and prefer a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots and smooth substrate to prevent injury to their delicate barbels.

43. German Blue Ram Fish

German Blue Ram fish, also known as Blue Ram cichlid, is a popular freshwater aquarium fish. They are native to South America and belong to the Cichlidae family. German Blue Ram fish are known for their beautiful blue coloration, which is more prominent in males. They are peaceful and can be kept with other fish, but should not be housed with aggressive or fin-nipping species.

German Blue Ram fish require warm water with a pH range of 6.0-7.5 and a temperature of 77-82°F. They are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods including flakes, pellets, and frozen foods. German Blue Ram fish are known to be quite sensitive to water conditions, so proper aquarium maintenance is crucial for their health and well-being.

44. White Cloud Mountain Minnow Fish

The White Cloud Mountain Minnow is a small freshwater fish native to China. It is a peaceful and hardy fish, making it a popular choice for beginner aquarists. These fish have an iridescent silver body with red and gold fins. They are shoaling fish and should be in groups of at least six in a tank with a minimum size of 10 gallons.

They prefer a temperature range of 64-72°F and a pH range of 6.0-8.0. They are omnivores and will eat both flake and live foods. The White Cloud Mountain Minnow is popular for small community tanks due to its peaceful nature and easy care.

Scaleless Freshwater Aquarium Fish

Scaleless freshwater aquarium fish are a unique group of fish that lack the typical scales found in other fish species. Instead, they have smooth, slimy skin that protects against disease and parasites. Some popular scaleless freshwater aquarium fish include catfish, loaches, eels, and a few tetras. These fish require a specific diet and water conditions to thrive, as their lack of scales makes them more sensitive to changes in water quality. While they may require little more care than other fish, they can be a fascinating and rewarding addition to any aquarium.

45. Zebra Catfish

Zebra Catfish is a freshwater aquarium fish native to South America. Zebra Catfish are characterized by their striped black and white pattern and have a flat, broad head with two pairs of barbels. They are peaceful and social fish, often found in groups, and can grow up to 6 inches in length.

Zebra Catfish prefer a planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots and moderate water flow. They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods including pellets, frozen, and live foods. They are relatively easy to care for and make additions to community aquariums.

46. Albino Walking Catfish

The albino walking catfish, also known as the white or ghost catfish, is a variety of the walking catfish that lacks pigmentation, resulting in a pale, almost transparent appearance. They are primarily found in Southeast Asia, but have also been introduced to other parts of the world.

As their name suggests, walking catfish are able to walk on land using their pectoral fins and are able to survive out of water for extended periods of time by breathing air through their gills. They are considered a pest in many areas where they have been introduced as they are able to quickly populate and disrupt local ecosystems.

47. Common Sturgeon Fish

Common Sturgeon Fish, also known as the Atlantic sturgeon, is a species of fish belonging to the family Acipenseridae. They are found in the western Atlantic Ocean, from New Brunswick in Canada to Florida in the United States.

Common Sturgeons can grow up to 3 meters in length and weigh up to 400 kg. They have a long and pointed snout, five rows of bony plates called scutes on their body, and scaleless skin. They are a popular food fish, and their eggs are used to make caviar. However, their populations have declined due to overfishing and habitat loss, and they are now considered a threatened species.

Large Freshwater Aquarium Fish List

Large freshwater aquarium fish can be a stunning addition to any tank, providing a focal point and adding a sense of drama and excitement. However, it’s important to remember that larger Fish require more space, filtration, and careful attention to water quality.

48.Koi Fish

Koi fish are native to Japan, where they have been bred for centuries to produce the many varieties of colors and patterns seen today. They are a hardy species that can adapt to a wide range of water conditions, but they require a large amount of space to swim and grow.

49.Alligator Gar Fish

The Alligator Garfish is a Large predatory freshwater species that is native to North and Central America. It is named for its elongated snout, which resembles an alligator. This species is known for its fierce reputation and impressive size, with some individuals reaching over eight feet in length and weighing up to 300 pounds.

50.Arapaima Fish

Arapaima fish are known for their unique adaptations, including the ability to breathe air using a specialized swim bladder, which allows them to survive in oxygen-poor waters.

They are also powerful swimmers, with streamlined body and muscular tail that allows them to move quickly through the water.

In conclusion, the world of freshwater aquarium fish list is vast and fascinating, with so many beautiful and unique species to choose from. The 50 Most Famous Freshwater Aquarium Fish listed here are just a few sample of the many options available to aquarium hobbyists. It is important to note that while these fish are popular and widely available, they may not be suitable for every aquarium setup or skill level. It is always important to research each species thoroughly and ensure that their need can be met in your aquarium before making a purchase. With proper care and attention, these fish can bring joy and beauty to any aquarium.