The 10 Most Popular Types of Fish for Pets

Updated: 11/Jul/2023

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Having pet fish can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Fish are known for their beauty, tranquility, and low-maintenance nature, making them an ideal choice for many pet lovers. If you’re considering adding fish to your family, knowing the most popular types of fish for pets is essential. 

Let’s explore the top 10 fish species that make great companions and learn all about their care needs.

Table of Content
  1. Most Popular Fishes for Saltwater and Freshwater Aquariums:
  2. Betta (Betta splendens)
    1. Pros and Cons of Owning a Betta Fish:
    2. Pricing:
  3. Fancy Goldfish (Carassius auratus)
    1. Pros and Cons of Owning a Fancy Goldfish:
    2. Pricing:
  4. Mbuna Cichlids (Various genus and species)
    1. Pros and Cons of Owning a Mbuna Cichlid:
    2. Pricing:
  5. Convict Cichlids (Amatitlania nigrofasciata)
    1. Pros and Cons of Owning a Convict Cichlid:
    2. Pricing:
  6. Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris)
    1. Pros and Cons of Owning an Ocellaris Clownfish:
    2. Pricing:
  7. Oscars (Astronotus ocellatus)
    1. Pros and Cons of Owning Oscars Fish:
    2. Pricing:
  8. Tiger Barbs (Puntigrus tetrazona)
    1. Pros and Cons of Owning Tiger Barbs:
    2. Pricing:
  9. Mollies (Poecilia sp.)
    1. Pros and Cons of Owning Mollies:
    2. Pricing:
  10. Fancy Guppies (Poecilia sp.)
    1. Pros and Cons of Owning Fancy Guppies:
    2. Pricing:
  11. Freshwater Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)
    1. Pros and Cons of Owning Freshwater Angelfish:
    2. Pricing:
      1. Conclusion:

Various fish make excellent pets, so it’s important to know what type you’re interested in.

If you’re hunting for a small fish that can be kept in an aquarium, bettas, and gouramis are good options. Tiger Barbs and Oscar are excellent options if you’re looking for a larger fish. If you’re looking for a popular fish for its aquarium-keeping abilities, go for a Goldfish. And if you’re looking for a fish that is easy to care for and popular as a pet, consider a Betta.

Various fish make excellent pets, so it’s important to know what type you’re interested in. Remember the aquarium size before making the purchase, and feed your pet fish regular food and water to keep them healthy and happy!

Below is the list of the top 10 popular types for a pet fish:

1. Betta (Betta splendens)

Image of a betta fish swimming in an aquarium. The betta fish is orange with blue fins. The image is relevant to the article "The 10 Most Popular Types of Fish for Pets" because betta fish are one of the most popular types of fish for pets.

Betta fish, commonly known as Siamese fighting fish, have become very popular due to their vibrant colors and striking fin displays. Bettas are known for their territorial nature, requiring individual housing to prevent aggression towards other males. 

These charismatic fish have various colors and tail variations, making them a beautiful addition to any aquarium. Betta fish thrive in well-maintained tanks with appropriate water conditions, and they enjoy a diet of high-quality betta pellets and occasional live or frozen foods.

Care requirements:

  • Tank size: At least 2 gallons, but 5 gallons or more is recommended.
  • Water temperature: 76-81 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • pH: 6.5-7.5
  • Diet: Flakes, pellets, live food
  • Compatibility: Peaceful with other similarly sized fish
  • Lifespan: 2 – 5 years

Pros and Cons of Owning a Betta Fish:

Pros
  1. They are lovely fish with a wide variety of colors and patterns.
  2. They are relatively easy to care for.
  3. They are small, so they only require a little space.
  4. They can be fed infrequently.
  5.  They can live in a bowl or aquarium with other fish.
Cons
  1. They can be aggressive and may fight with other fish.
  2. They require clean water and regular maintenance of their tank.
  3. They are not recommended for beginners due to their delicate nature.
  4. They need a warm climate to survive.
  5. They have a short lifespan.

Pricing:

Betta fish are relatively inexpensive fish to own. The average price of a betta fish is between $5 and $30. However, the cost can vary depending on the type of betta fish, its color, and its rarity. For example, a betta fish with a rare color or finnage can cost upwards of $50.

2. Fancy Goldfish (Carassius auratus)

A photo of a Veiltail goldfish swimming in an aquarium. The goldfish is a popular pet fish and is one of the 10 most popular types of fish for pets.

Fancy goldfish, scientifically known as Carassius auratus, has a rich history as ornamental fish. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, each exhibiting unique charm. Fancy goldfish have charming personalities and can recognize their owners, often coming to the front of the aquarium for interaction. 

These captivating fish require spacious tanks with excellent filtration to accommodate their size and maintain water quality.

Care requirements:

  • Tank size: 20 gallons per fish, with 10 gallons added for every other goldfish.
  • Water temperature: 68° to 74° F (20° to 23° C).
  • pH: 7.0 to 8.4.
  • Diet: Flakes, Frozen food such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.
  • Compatibility: Peaceful with other similarly sized fish
  • Lifespan: 5-10 years

Pros and Cons of Owning a Fancy Goldfish:

Pros
  1. Goldfish are active and playful fish.
  2. Goldfish can live for a long time with proper care, up to 10 years.
  3. They are relatively easy to care for compared to other pets.
  4. They are soothing to watch and can help relax their owner.
  5. Goldfish can be trained to do tricks and provide entertainment.
Cons
  1. They require a larger tank than most other pet fish, at least 20 gallons.
  2. Goldfish need clean water, so be alert with tank maintenance.
  3. They are messy eaters and produce a lot of waste, which can dirty their tanks quickly.
  4. Goldfish can get sick, so watch for signs of illness.

Pricing:

Fancy goldfish are relatively inexpensive fish to own. The average price of a fancy goldfish is between $5 and $50. However, the cost can vary depending on the type of goldfish, its color, and its rarity. For example, a fancy goldfish with a rare color can cost upwards of $100.

3. Mbuna Cichlids (Various genus and species)

A photo of a Mbuna Cichlids also known as the Zebra Mbuna, swimming in an aquarium. The Zebra Mbuna is a popular pet fish and is one of the 10 most popular types of fish for pets, as discussed in the article "The 10 Most Popular Types of Fish for Pets".

Mbuna cichlids contain diverse fish species originating from Lake Malawi in Africa. With their vibrant colors and energetic nature, Mbuna cichlids bring life and vibrancy to aquariums. These cichlids display various patterns and shades, creating stunning displays of aquatic beauty.

Mbuna cichlids thrive in rocky environments with great hiding places. Due to their territorial nature, providing enough space and carefully selecting tank mates is essential. Their intriguing behavior and attractive colorings make them highly sought after by experienced fish keepers.

Care requirements:

  • Tank size: Minimum of 40 gallons for a small group of mbuna.
  • Water temperature: 75-81°F (24-27°C).
  • pH: 7.5-8.5.
  • Diet: Algae wafers, live food, and frozen food
  • Compatibility:  Can be aggressive with other Mbuna cichlids but can be kept with other species of Lake Malawi cichlids
  • Lifespan:  8-10 years in captivity

Pros and Cons of Owning a Mbuna Cichlid:

Pros
  1. They are beautiful fish with bright, colorful patterns.
  2. They are active and entertaining to watch.
  3. They are relatively easy to care for compared to other fish species.
  4. They are hardy and can withstand less-than-ideal water conditions.
  5. They are good community fish and get along well with other Mbuna cichlids.
Cons
  1. They can be aggressive, especially during spawning season.
  2. They need a lot of hiding places in their tank because they like to retreat when they feel threatened.
  3. They are messy eaters and produce a lot of waste, which can pollute the water.
  4. Mbuna cichlids require a high-quality diet and regular water changes.
  5. Mbuna cichlids can be expensive to purchase and care for.

Pricing:

Mbuna cichlids are a popular type of fish that can range in price from around $10 to $50. The average price of a Mbuna cichlid is around $25, but you can find them for as low as $10 or as high as $50 or more.

4. Convict Cichlids (Amatitlania nigrofasciata)

A photo of a beautiful convict cichlid swimming in an aquarium. The convict cichlid is a popular pet fish and is one of the 10 most popular types of fish for pets, as discussed in the article "The 10 Most Popular Types of Fish for Pets".

Convict cichlids are small yet feisty fish with captivating personalities. These cichlids exhibit black stripes on a silver body, showcasing a striking contrast.
Convict cichlids are highly territorial and will defend their space, displaying fascinating behaviors when establishing dominance. While they require good hiding spots in the aquarium, their interactive nature and intriguing social dynamics make them popular among fish fans.

Care requirements:

  • Tank size: 30 gallons or larger
  • Water temperature: 79-84°F (26-29°C)
  • pH: 6.5-8.0
  • Diet: Omnivorous; flake food, live food, frozen food
  • Compatibility: Semi-aggressive; can be kept with other cichlids of similar size and temperament
  • Lifespan: 8-10 years

Pros and Cons of Owning a Convict Cichlid:

Pros
  1. They are beautiful fish with bright, colorful patterns.
  2. They are active and entertaining to watch.
  3. They are relatively easy to care for compared to other fish species.
  4. They are hardy and can withstand less-than-ideal water conditions.
  5. They are good community fish and get along well with other Mbuna cichlids.
Cons
  1. They are beautiful fish with bright, colorful patterns.
  2. They are active and entertaining to watch.
  3. They are relatively easy to care for compared to other fish species.
  4. They are hardy and can withstand less-than-ideal water conditions.
  5. They are good community fish and get along well with other Mbuna cichlids.

Pricing:

Convict cichlids are inexpensive, ranging from $5 to $25. The average price for a convict cichlid is around $15. However, the cost can vary depending on the size of the fish, its color, and its rarity. For example, a rare or unusual convict cichlid may be more expensive than a typical fish.

5. Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris)

Did you know that Ocellaris clownfish, also called Amphiprion ocellaris, is quite famous in the aquarium hobby? They became even more popular after appearing in the movie “Finding Nemo.” These beautiful marine fish have become quite iconic! 

These beautiful fish display bright orange bodies adorned with three white stripes. Ocellaris clownfish are known for their amusing behaviors and symbiotic relationship with anemones. They are relatively easy to care for and thrive in well-established saltwater aquariums. Their charm and vibrant appearance bring a touch of the ocean’s magic to your home.

Care requirements:

  • Tank size: 30 gallons or larger
  • Water temperature: 72-78°F (22-25°C)
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Diet: Crustaceans, algae, and frozen food
  • Compatibility: Peaceful with other clownfish and non-aggressive fish
  • Lifespan: 3-5 years

Pros and Cons of Owning an Ocellaris Clownfish:

Pros
  1. They are very easy to care for and require very little maintenance.
  2. They are very hardy fish and can withstand various water conditions.
  3. They are relatively inexpensive compared to other saltwater fish.
  4. They are beautiful fish that come in a variety of colors.
  5. They are peaceful fish that get along well with other tank mates.
Cons
  1. They are not native to the United States and may be challenging to find.
  2. They may be bullied by other fish if not introduced into the tank correctly.
  3. They require a saltwater aquarium, which can be expensive to set up and maintain.
  4. Ocellaris clownfish are prone to disease, so keep their tank clean and healthy.

Pricing:

Ocellaris clownfish is a popular saltwater fish that can range in price from around $10 to $50. The average price of an Ocellaris clownfish is around $25, but you can find them for as low as $10 or as high as $50 or more.

6. Oscars (Astronotus ocellatus)

Image of a brown, silver, and black Oscar fish swimming in a tank. The fish is one of the 10 most popular types of fish for pets.

Oscars are impressive and intelligent fish that have gained popularity among aquarium enthusiasts. These large and vibrant cichlids exhibit a range of colors, including orange, red, and black. 

Oscars have distinct personalities and can form strong bonds with their owners, recognizing them and eagerly interacting during feeding. Due to their size, Oscars require spacious tanks with proper filtration and regular maintenance.

Care requirements:

  • Tank size: 55 gallons or larger for one fish, 30 gallons per additional fish
  • Water temperature: 74-81°F (23-27°C)
  • pH: 6-8
  • Diet: Variety of live, frozen, and flake foods
  • Compatibility: Can be aggressive with other Oscars but can be kept with other large, peaceful fish
  • Lifespan: 10-15 years

Pros and Cons of Owning Oscars Fish:

Pros
  1. Oscars can grow to be large and are relatively hardy fish.
  2. Oscars come in a variety of colors and patterns.
  3. Oscars are relatively easy to care for, even for beginners.
  4. They are fun to watch swimming around.
  5. They can help to cleanse your tank of other debris and waste.
Cons
  1. They can be aggressive towards other fish.
  2. They may uproot plants in your tank.
  3. They produce a lot of waste, so you must do regular water changes.
  4. Oscars require large tanks, at least 75 gallons for a single fish.
  5. Oscars are susceptible to some diseases, so be aware of the signs.

Pricing:

Oscar fish can cost around $10 to $50, depending on the fish’s size, color, and rarity. You will also need a large tank, filter, and food. The total cost can be around $100 or more.

7. Tiger Barbs (Puntigrus tetrazona)

The 10 Most Popular Types of Fish for Pets: Tiger Barb or Sumatra Barb Fish

Tiger barbs are tiny and vibrant fish that captivate onlookers with their striking appearance. These active swimmers display a vivid orange color with black stripes reminiscent of a tiger’s patterns. 

Tiger barbs have playful personalities, often gathering near the front of the aquarium and engaging in energetic displays. While they are known to nip fins, keeping them in groups of six or more helps minimize aggressive behavior and provides a visually stunning sight in the aquarium.

Care requirements:

  • Tank size: 20-30 gallons or larger
  • Water temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
  • pH: 6.0-8.0
  • Diet: Flake food, pellets, live food, frozen food
  • Compatibility: With other active, non-aggressive fish
  • Lifespan: 5-7 years

Pros and Cons of Owning Tiger Barbs:

Pros
  1. They are very active fish and enjoyable to watch.
  2. They are relatively easy to care for.
  3. They are affordable.
  4. They are available in a variety of colors.
  5. They can be kept in a community tank with other fish of similar size and temperament.
Cons
  1. They can be aggressive towards other fish and their owner during feeding time.
  2. They require a tank with plenty of hiding places, as they like to explore and can become stressed if not enough hiding places are available.
  3. They are not recommended for beginner aquarists due to their potential aggression.

Pricing:

Owning Tiger Barbs can range from $5 to $50. You will also need to purchase a tank, filter, and other supplies, adding to the overall cost. Overall, the cost of owning Tiger Barbs can be relatively affordable.

8. Mollies (Poecilia sp.)

A molly fish swimming in a tank. The molly fish is a popular type of freshwater fish that is known for its bright colors and easy care. This image is a great example of the beauty and diversity of the fish world.

Mollies, also members of the Poecilia genus, are versatile fish that adapt well to various aquarium setups. These livebearers are available in different colors, including black, white, and orange. Mollies are popular among beginners due to their ease of care and hardy nature.

They exhibit social behavior, interacting with their tank mates and showing curiosity toward their keepers. Mollies are omnivorous and benefit from a balanced diet that includes high-quality flake food, pellets, and occasional vegetable matter.

Care requirements:

  • Tank size: 20-55 gallons
  • Water temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
  • pH: 7.5-8.5
  • Diet: Omnivorous, flake food, live food, frozen food
  • Compatibility: Peaceful with other livebearers, can be aggressive with larger fish
  • Lifespan: 3-5 years

Pros and Cons of Owning Mollies:

  1. They are peaceful and calm fish.
  2. They are very colorful and can brighten up any aquarium.
  3. They are easy to care for and don’t require much attention.
  4. They are relatively cheap compared to other fish.
  5. They reproduce quickly so that you can have a lot of them in a short amount of time.
Cons
  1. They can be aggressive towards other fish, so you have to be careful when choosing tank mates.
  2. They are known for jumping out of tanks, so you must have a tight-fitting lid on your aquarium.
  3. They are susceptible to diseases, so you need to be extra diligent in keeping the water quality high in their tank.

Pricing:

Mollies are a popular type of fish that can be relatively inexpensive to care for. The average price of a Molly is around $5, but you can find them for as low as $1 or as high as $20 or more. The price of a Molly can be affected by the type of Molly, its size, its color, and its rarity.

9. Fancy Guppies (Poecilia sp.)

Image of a colorful aquarium with guppies, other small fish swimming among plants and stones.

Fancy Guppies, belonging to the Poecilia genus, are small and colorful fish perfect for beginners. They are known for their vibrant hues, flowing tails, and intricate patterns. Guppies are lively and easy to care for, making them popular among fish enthusiasts. Their playful nature and striking appearance make them a delight to watch.

Care requirements:

  • Tank size: 10 gallons or larger
  • Water temperature: 72-78°F (22-25°C)
  • pH: 7.0-7.8
  • Diet: Flake food, live food, frozen food
  • Compatibility: Peaceful with other small fish
  • Lifespan: 2-3 years

Pros and Cons of Owning Fancy Guppies:

Pros
  1. Fancy guppies are relatively easy to care for, even for beginners.
  2. Fancy guppies are peaceful and versatile, making them a good choice for community tanks.
  3. Fancy guppies are colorful and popular aquarium fish.
  4. Fancy guppies are a budget-friendly option for aquarium hobbyists.
Cons
  1. Guppies are short-lived, with a lifespan of only 2-3 years.
  2. Guppies are prone to diseases and parasites, so they need to be monitored closely.
  3. Guppies are also known to be jumpers, so a tight-fitting lid is necessary to prevent them from escaping their tank.

Pricing:

Fancy guppies are relatively inexpensive fish to own. The average price of a fancy guppy is between $5 and $50, depending on the type of guppy, its color, and its rarity. However, you can find them as low as $2 or as high as $100 or more.

10. Freshwater Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)

The freshwater angelfish, scientifically known as Pterophyllum scalare, is a beloved choice for many fish lovers. With their distinctive triangular shape and flowing fins, they exude elegance and grace. 

Freshwater angelfish are available in various colors, including silver, black, and marbled patterns. They have captivating personalities, often greeting their keepers and exhibiting engaging behaviors. These angelfish are suitable for medium-sized aquariums and thrive in peaceful community setups.

Care requirements:

  • Tank size: 20-30 gallons for a single fish, 50+ gallons for a group
  • Water temperature:  78-84°F (25-29°C)
  • pH: 6.8-7.8
  • Diet: Omnivorous, with flake food, pellets, live food, and frozen food
  • Compatibility:  Angelfish are generally peaceful fish, but they can be territorial towards other angelfish of the same species. They can also be aggressive towards smaller fish.
  • Lifespan: 10-15 years

Pros and Cons of Owning Freshwater Angelfish:

Pros
  1. Freshwater angelfish are peaceful and social fish that enjoy interacting with their owners.
  2. They are easy to care for and do not require specialized equipment.
  3. They are versatile tank mates that can be kept with various fish.
  4. Freshwater angelfish can live for up to 10 years, making them a long-term commitment.
Cons
  1. Freshwater angelfish can be aggressive if not given enough space. Provide a large tank with hiding places.
  2. They can be expensive, short varieties.
  3. Freshwater angelfish can be difficult to breed and is not recommended for beginners.
  4. These are prone to diseases. Be aware of the signs and symptoms and take steps to prevent them.

Pricing:

Freshwater Angelfish can be a relatively affordable pet to own. The average price of a Freshwater Angelfish is around $15, but you can find them for as low as $5 or as high as $50 or more.

Conclusion:

Finding the perfect pet fish can be difficult, but don’t worry; I’m here to help. This guide will give you all the information you need to make the right choice for your needs. The 10 most popular freshwater fish listed in this article are all popular choices for a reason. They are all relatively easy to care for and come in various colors, shapes, and sizes. So whether you are looking for a peaceful fish to add to your community tank or a colorful fish to show off to your friends, you are sure to find a fish on this list that is perfect for you.

What is the most common pet fish?

The most common pet fish is the betta fish, the Siamese fighting fish. They are popular because they are relatively easy to care for and come in various colors.

What fish is the easiest pet?

Some of the easiest pet fish include betta fish, goldfish, and mollies. These fish are relatively hardy and can tolerate various water conditions.

What is the best type of fish for a pet?

The best type of fish for a pet depends on your needs and preferences. Some factors to consider include the size of your tank, the time you have to care for your fish, and your budget.

Can pet fish live alone?

Yes, some pet fish can live alone. However, other fish are more social and must be kept in groups. It is essential to do your research before choosing a fish to ensure it can live happily alone or in a group.

What is the cheapest type of pet fish?

The cheapest type of pet fish is often the betta fish. They are relatively inexpensive to purchase and care for.

What pet fish grows the fastest?

The pet fish that grows the fastest is the goldfish. Goldfish can grow quite large, so it is essential to have a large tank if you are considering getting one.

Can guppies live with goldfish?

Yes, guppies can live with goldfish. However, it is essential to note that guppies are livebearers, meaning they give birth to live young. Goldfish are not livebearers, so they cannot eat the guppy fry.

How many types of pet fish are there?

There are over 30,000 fish species worldwide, many of which can be kept as pets. Some of the most popular types of pet fish include betta fish, goldfish, mollies, guppies, tetras, and cichlids.

How long do pet fish live?

The lifespan of a pet fish depends on the species of fish. Some fish, such as betta fish, only live for a few years, while others, such as goldfish, can live for decades.

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