List of freshwater aquarium fish species

Summary

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 edit

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   3.8 cm

(1.5 in)

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) 70-75 °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 8.7 cm (3.4 in) 6.0 – 8.0
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 4.3 cm

(1.7 in)

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.   12 cm (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   30 cm (12 in)
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   50 cm (20 in)
Zebra pleco, L-046 Hypancistrus zebra   6.4 cm (2.5 in) One of the most popular Hypancistrus species.

Endangered.[17]

Sailfin catfish Pterygoplichthys multiradiatus   50 cm

(19.7 in)

Golden dwarf sucker, golden oto Otocinclus macrospilus   3.5 cm

(1.4 in)

Zebra dwarf sucker, zebra oto Otocinclus cocama   4.4 cm

(1.7 in)

Clown Pleco ( L104, L162, and LDA22)[18] Panaqolus maccus   8.8 cm (3.5 in)[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 31.8 cm

(12.5 in)

Even-Spotted squeaker Synodontis petricola   10 cm (3.9 in)
Featherfin squeaker Synodontis eupterus   30 cm

(11.8 in)

Lake Malawi syno Synodontis njassae   19.2 cm

(7.6 in)

Polka dot syno Synodontis angelicus   9 - 18 cm (3.5-7.1 in)
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.[citation needed] 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 edit

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 edit

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 edit

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 edit

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.[citation needed] 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 edit

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 edit

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 edit

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 edit

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 edit

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 edit

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
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 edit

Sources edit

  • Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish (2005) (David Alderton)
  • 500 Aquarium Fish: A Visual Reference to the Most Popular Species[full citation needed]

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