Nothing is more exciting than adding new fish to your aquarium. But with all of the stocking ideas out there, it can be difficult to decide which fish to choose.
Some pick their fish first, some choose the design of their tank and then fill it with compatible fish. Additionally, fish owners tend to build their tanks based on the location of the world’s freshwater systems.
For example, a tropical fish tank may feature brightly-colored fish that are native to the Amazon River Basin, while an African Cichlid fish tank could be home to fish from Lake Malawi.
But what if you’re not sure which fish you want, and you just want to browse by color? Here are some of the most popular aquarium fish species, organized by color.
Blue
The most sought-after clan of blue fish are from the great lakes of Africa, including
- Electric Blue Hap (Sciaenochromis fryeri)
- African Butterfly Cichlid (Anomalochromis thomasi)
- Blue Dolphin Cichlid (Cyrtocara moorii)
- Blue Peacock Cichlid
- Electric Blue Johanni Cichlid (Pseudotropheus Johannii)
African Cichlids are extremely aggressive fish. They are best kept with other African Cichlids that have similar temperament and size.
If you’re just starting out and are looking for a blue fish that is low-maintenance, we recommend the following varieties:
- Blue Betta (Siamese Fighting Fish)
- Lake Kutubu Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia lacustris)
- Blue Delta Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)
- Powder Blue Dwarf Gourami (Trichogaster lalius)
- Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi)
- Discus Fish
Yellow/Gold
The strikingly yellow and gold colors are commonly found in tropical marine fish. Most of these fish are found in the reefs of the Indo-Pacific. However, there are actually about a dozen different freshwater species that are popular among aquarium enthusiasts.
If you’re interested in keeping a yellow or gold fish, some of the beautiful varieties include:
- Gold Honey Gourami (Trichogaster chuna)
- Yellow Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia herbertaxelrodi)
- Yellow Discus Fish (Symphysodon sp.)
- Gold Chinese Algae Eater (Gyrinocheilus aymonieri)
- Yellow Discus Fish (Symphysodon sp.)
- Lemon Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus sp.)
- Gold Severum (Heros severus)
No matter which fish you choose, be sure to do your research to make sure they will be compatible with the other fish in your tank.
Also, here is a list of more than 20 other yellow and gold freshwater fish species that you might want to consider.
Red
Another common color among freshwater fish is red. A lot of people are drawn to the vibrant hue, and it can really add some pop to your tank.
Looking for a red fish to a new or existing freshwater aquarium? Starting with these 10 breeds.
- Comet Goldfish
- Red Guppy Fish
- True Red Terror Cichlid
- Red Platy Fish
- Red Bettas
- Flame Dwarf Gouramis
- Cherry Barb
- Red Discus
- Red Rams
- Chili Rasbora
Green
The color green is quite uncommon in the fish world; this makes it highly desired. Those in the know― hobbyists and aquaculturists alike ―have been vying for supremacy in breeding, farming, and importing green specimens for years.
However, we can still find a number of fish that will add a green sparkle to your fish tank.
- Emerald cory (Brochis splendens)
- Green gold catfish (Corydoras melanotaenia)
- Green Bettas
- Green Terror Cichlid
- Spotted Congo puffer (Tetraodon schoutedeni)
Other Colors & Morphs
As is true of all this list, there is simply not enough room to discuss all colors and morphs available in the hobby today.
Here are some other colors and morphs that might interest you:
- Albino – A fish with a genetic mutation that prevents the growth of pigment in the skin, scales, and eyes. As a result, these fish typically have a white or pale pink coloration with red eyes.
- Piebald – A patterned fish whose coloration consists of large blotches or patches of white or light-colored scales on a dark body.
- Ghost – A fish that is mostly transparent with very little coloration.
- Leopard – A fish with large spots or patterns that resemble a leopard’s coat.
- Zebra – A fish with stripes that run vertically down the body.Barred – A fish with stripes or bars that run horizontally across the body.
- Tiger – A fish with stripes or spots that resemble a tiger’s coat.
- Lace – A fish with a delicate, lacy pattern on the fins and/or body.
- Butterfly – A fish with colorful wings and a long, flowing tail.
- Dalmatian – A fish with black spots on a white body.
- Marbled – A fish with a swirling pattern of colors that resemble marble.
Final Words
These are just some of the popular color morphs that you might come across. As you can see, there is an endless variety of colors, patterns, and shapes to choose from.
When selecting fish for your aquarium, it is important to consider the size, temperament, and compatibility of the fish. However, don’t forget to let your personal preference play a role in your decision as well! After all, you will be the one looking at your fish every day.
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