As an aquarist, there’s something truly captivating about the sight of vibrant colors dancing in an underwater world.
As we navigate the depths of our aquariums, we encounter a mosaic of personalities and temperaments. Some fish exhibit bold and daring colors, while others showcase subtle and intricate patterns that require a closer look to truly appreciate.
From dazzling blues to fiery reds, and from shimmering yellows to vibrant greens, these 21 colorful freshwater fish are sure to bring an explosion of color to your aquarium!
#1 Angelfish
Hailing from the South American’s freshwater basin, Angelfish brings a touch of exotic touch to any tank. These wonderful fish are known for their recognizable triangular shape and their ability to turn heads with a single flick of their flowing fins!
They are usually timid and they love to socialize, so it’s best to keep them in pairs or small groups. However, beware of their feisty side!
They can be a bit territorial, so make sure to provide them with enough space and hiding spots to claim as their own. And this means avoid putting them in the same tank as Kribensis Cichlids!
Instead, consider peaceful companions like Tetras, Gouramis, or Corydoras, who can dance harmoniously alongside these majestic beauties.
| Scientific Name: | Pterophyllum scalare |
| Size: | 6 – 8 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivorous |
| Temperament: | Generally peaceful but can become territorial |
| Tank Size: | 20 gallons or more |
| Water Temperature: | 75 – 82°F |
| Water Hardness: | 5 – 13 dGH |
| pH Value: | 6.5 – 7.8 |
| Care Difficulty: | Moderate |
| Tank Mates: | Tetras, Gouramis, Corydoras, or similar-sized non-aggressive species |
#2 Crowntail Betta
Also known as Siamese Fighting Fish, Crowntail Bettas are renowned for their long, flowing fins that make them look like underwater ballerinas.
Originating from the rice paddies of Southeast Asia, these fierce fish have earned a reputation for their territorial nature and captivating personality.
Male Bettas are known for their flamboyant, long fins and vibrant colors, while female Bettas have shorter fins and less vibrant hues, but still possess their own unique charm.
Betta fish are true showstoppers, and they prefer to have the spotlight all to themselves.
This means you should keep them in a solitary tank to avoid clashes with other fish, especially Kribensis, as they won’t hesitate to assert their dominance!
| Scientific Name: | Betta splendens |
| Size: | 2 – 3 inches |
| Diet: | Carnivorous |
| Temperament: | Aggressive and territorial |
| Tank Size: | 5 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 78 – 80°F |
| Water Hardness: | 5 – 20 dGH |
| pH Value: | 6.0 – 7.5 |
| Care Difficulty: | Easy |
| Tank Mates: | Kuhli Loaches, Cory Catfish, Harlequin Rasboras |
#3 Discus
These sophisticated beauties are known for their majestic disk-shaped bodies, vibrant patterns, and a color palette that could rival a painter’s dreams.
Native to the Amazon River basin, Discus fish are a true treasure for any aquarist seeking a touch of elegance and beauty.
Discus fish are social creatures and thrive in groups of their own kind. Keeping a small school of them will create a dazzling display of colors and interactions.
Just be sure to provide a spacious tank, at least a 40 gallon one, with plenty of hiding spots and a soft substrate, as they love to explore their surroundings and retreat to peaceful corners when they need a break from the light!
| Scientific Name: | Symphysodon spp. |
| Size: | 6 – 8 inches |
| Diet: | Carnivorous |
| Temperament: | Generally peaceful |
| Tank Size: | 50 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 82 – 88°F |
| Water Hardness: | 1 – 8 dGH |
| pH Value: | 6.0 – 7.0 |
| Care Difficulty: | Difficult |
| Tank Mates: | Tetras, Corydoras, or similar-sized non-aggressive species |
#4 Electric Blue Acara
With its distinctive metallic blue coloration, this freshwater fish is a true gem in any aquarium. Electric Blue Acaras belong to the Cichlidae family and are known for their peaceful nature.
Their vibrant blue hues, complemented by subtle red shades, create a visually spectacular display that will surely catch the eye of any fish enthusiast.
Growing up to 6 inches in length, Electric Blue Acaras thrive in a tank size of at least 30 gallons. These intelligent fish appreciate a variety of hiding spots created by driftwood, rocks, or live plants, which mimic their natural habitat.
| Scientific Name: | Andinoacara pulcher |
| Size: | 6 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivorous |
| Temperament: | Generally peaceful but can become territorial |
| Tank Size: | 30 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 75 – 82°F |
| Water Hardness: | 5 – 15 dGH |
| pH Value: | 6.0 – 7.5 |
| Care Difficulty: | Easy to moderate |
| Tank Mates: | Tetras, Corydoras, or similar-sized non-aggressive species |
#4 German Blue Ram
German Blue Rams are small cichlids that are known for their blue and gold hues.
While these beautiful fish are generally peaceful, they can exhibit territorial behavior, especially during breeding. However, one interesting aspect of German Blue Rams is their compatibility with Mollies, which is quite rare among cichlid species.
Alongside Mollies, German Blue Rams can also be kept with other peaceful community fish like Tetras, Corydoras, or other non-aggressive dwarf cichlids.
| Scientific Name: | Mikrogeophagus ramirezi |
| Size: | 2 – 3 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivorous |
| Temperament: | Generally peaceful but can become territorial |
| Tank Size: | 20 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 78 – 85°F |
| Water Hardness: | 5 – 15 dGH |
| pH Value: | 6.0 – 7.5 |
| Care Difficulty: | Moderate |
| Tank Mates: | Tetras, Corydoras, or other non-aggressive dwarf cichlids |
#5 Glowlight Tetra
Glowlight Tetras are lovely little fish that have an exclusive feature that sets them apart from the crowd.
Their eye-catching bright orange-red stripe, resembling a glowing ember, stretches from their head all the way to their tail. Their bodies are translucent, which makes this stripe even more pronounced!
When kept in a school, their vibrant colors intensify, creating a lovely spectacle of shimmering lights in your aquarium.
| Scientific Name: | Hemigrammus erythrozonus |
| Size: | 1.5 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivore |
| Temperament: | Peaceful |
| Tank Size: | 10 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 74°F – 82°F |
| Water Hardness: | 2 – 15 dGH |
| pH Value: | 5.8 – 7.5 |
| Care Difficulty: | Easy |
| Tank Mates: | other peaceful Tetras, Barbs, Cory Catfish |
#6 Goldfish
Whether it’s the sleek and slender Comet goldfish or the fancy and fancy-tailed varieties like the Oranda or Fantail, each goldfish wears its kaleidoscope of hues!
The Goldfish is not just a pretty face in the aquarium; it has also become a superstar in the world of scientific research!
This beloved ornamental fish has captured the attention of researchers studying a wide range of fields, including endocrinology, reproduction, and neurology.
Its specific qualities and versatility have made it a fantastic model organism for delving into the complex workings of these areas.
| Scientific Name: | Carassius auratus |
| Size: | 8 inches (depends on the species) |
| Diet: | Omnivorous |
| Temperament: | Generally peaceful |
| Tank Size: | 20 gallons or more |
| Water Temperature: | 65 – 78°F |
| Water Hardness: | 6 – 16 dGH |
| pH Value: | 6.0 – 8.0 |
| Care Difficulty: | Easy to moderate |
| Tank Mates: | Other Goldfish, Danios, peaceful community fish |
#7 Hillstream Loach
These peculiar and fascinating fish, often resembling tiny stingrays, possess a mesmerizing array of patterns and colors. Their bodies are decorated with unique spots, dots, and markings!
One important element is to ensure there is fast-flowing water in the tank. This helps create the ideal conditions for algae to grow, which hillstream loaches love to snack on.
Hillstream loaches also appreciate having darker, protected areas in the tank with slower water flow.
| Scientific Name: | Beaufortia kweichowensis |
| Size: | 2 to 6 inches |
| Diet: | Primarily herbivorous |
| Temperament: | Peaceful |
| Tank Size: | 20 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 70 – 80°F |
| Water Hardness: | 10 – 20 dGH |
| pH Value: | 6.5 – 7.5 |
| Care Difficulty: | Moderate |
| Tank Mates: | small catfish, loaches, or other non-aggressive species |
#8 Kribensis Cichlid
From vibrant oranges and yellows to bold blues and reds, Kribensis cichlid’s vibrant hues make them a true standout in any aquarium. Their bodies feature one-of-a-kind pattern, including vertical stripes and spots.
When it comes to male and female Kribensis Cichlids, there are noticeable differences. Males tend to be larger and exhibit more intense colors compared to females. They also develop elongated fins, giving them a more majestic appearance.
If you’re considering adding shrimp to your Kribensis Cichlid tank, it’s important to be cautious. This species has a natural tendency for hunting and may view shrimp as a tasty snack.
| Scientific Name: | Pelvicachromis pulcher |
| Size: | 4 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivorous |
| Temperament: | Generally peaceful but can become territorial |
| Tank Size: | 30 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 75 – 82°F |
| Water Hardness: | 5 – 15 dGH |
| pH Value: | 6.0 – 7.5 |
| Care Difficulty: | Easy to moderate |
| Tank Mates: | Neon tetras, Rasboras, peaceful Barbs, Corydoras catfish |
#9 Lemon Tetra
If you’re looking to add a splash of sunshine to your aquarium, the Lemon Tetra is the fish for you.
As part of the diverse and stunning world of tetras, these little beauties possess a silver base color with vibrant yellow splashes that instantly brighten up any tank.
Apart from their gorgeous looks, Lemon Tetras are known for their resilience and ease of care. These fish can adapt to various water parameters, making them a great choice for beginner aquarists!
| Scientific Name: | Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis |
| Size: | 1.5 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivore |
| Temperament: | Active and peaceful |
| Tank Size: | 20 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 72°F – 82°F |
| Water Hardness: | 3 – 20 dGH |
| pH Value: | 5.5 – 8.0 |
| Care Difficulty: | Easy |
| Tank Mates: | Rasboras, Dwarf Gouramis, or small Corydoras |
#10 Neon Tetra
One of the amazing qualities of these colorful freshwater fish is their ability to create a beautiful display when kept in larger groups.
These fish thrive in schools, and when a group of Neon Tetras swim together, their colors intensify, creating a shimmering effect that is simply mesmerizing to watch.
When it comes to tank mates, Neon Tetras can coexist peacefully with Tiger Barbs, despite their contrasting appearances. They also do well with other tetras and small shrimp species.
| Scientific Name: | Paracheirodon innesi |
| Size: | 1.5 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivores |
| Temperament: | Mostly peaceful |
| Tank Size: | 10 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 68°F – 82°F |
| Water Hardness: | 5 – 15 dGH |
| pH Value: | 4 – 7.5 |
| Care Difficulty: | Easy |
| Tank Mates: | Rasboras, Dwarf Gouramis, shrimp, or small Corydoras |
#11 Otocinclus Catfish
Otocinclus Catfish showcases a rather unique appearance with its flattened body, armored underbelly, and sucker-like mouth.
Apart from its fascinating appearance, there is exciting news about this fairly new species. This recent discovery comes from the upper Río Amazonas basin, specifically from the tributaries of Río Puré in Colombia and two tributaries near Iquitos in Peru.
In aquariums, Otocinclus Catfish are highly regarded for their beneficial behaviors. They are excellent algae eaters, tirelessly grazing on surfaces and keeping the tank clean.
| Scientific Name: | Otocinclus spp. |
| Size: | 1 – 2 inches |
| Diet: | Herbivorous |
| Temperament: | Peaceful and non-aggressive |
| Tank Size: | 10 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 72 – 78°F |
| Water Hardness: | 2 – 15 dGH |
| pH Value: | 6.0 – 7.5 |
| Care Difficulty: | Easy |
| Tank Mates: | Tetras, Rasboras, Guppies, dwarf Gouramis |
#12 Peacock Cichlid
What makes Peacock Cichlids even more fascinating is the wide range of color variations available. Some of these colors are naturally occurring in the wild, while others have been selectively bred in captivity to create even more prominent and unique patterns.
From electric blues and rich purples to vibrant yellows and fiery oranges, each Peacock Cichlid species or variety boasts its own interesting combination of colors!
These colorful freshwater fish are generally peaceful and can coexist well with other non-aggressive fish species that inhabit similar water conditions.
| Scientific Name: | Aulonocara spp. |
| Size: | 4 – 6 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivorous |
| Temperament: | Generally peaceful |
| Tank Size: | 40 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 76 – 82°F |
| Water Hardness: | 10 – 20 dGH |
| pH Value: | 7.8 – 8.6 |
| Care Difficulty: | Moderate |
| Tank Mates: | various cichlid species, Botia loaches |
#13 Pearl Gourami
With its iridescent scales that shimmer with a pearly sheen, the Pearl Gourami displays a beautiful blend of colors including shades of silver, pink, and blue.
Males boast longer and more pointed fins and red coloration across their chest, while females have a rounder shape and a more subtle coloration.
Beyond its visual appeal, the Pearl Gourami is known for its peaceful and calm nature. It gets along well with Kribensis Cichlids, Barbs, shrimp, and many others!
| Scientific Name: | Trichopodus leerii |
| Size: | 4 – 5 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivorous |
| Temperament: | Generally peaceful |
| Tank Size: | 30 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 75 – 82°F |
| Water Hardness: | 5 – 15 dGH |
| pH Value: | 6.0 – 7.5 |
| Care Difficulty: | Easy to moderate |
| Tank Mates: | Tetras, Rasboras, peaceful Barbs, Corydoras catfish, dwarf Cichlids |
#14 Rainbow Shark
The Rainbow Shark is undoubtedly one of the coolest freshwater sharks you can find in the aquarium hobby. Despite its name, it is not a true shark but rather a species of fish that belongs to the Cyprinidae family.
However, its sleek and streamlined body shape, coupled with its staggering appearance, gives it a shark-like vibe!
With its jet-black body adorned with vibrant red or orange hues on its fin rays and tail fins, this little fish commands attention wherever it swims.
| Scientific Name: | Epalzeorhynchos frenatum |
| Size: | 6 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivorous |
| Temperament: | Semi-aggressive |
| Tank Size: | 55 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 72°F – 82°F |
| Water Hardness: | 5 – 11 dGH |
| pH Value: | 6.5 – 7.5 |
| Care Difficulty: | Moderate |
| Tank Mates: | Rasboras, Danios, Rainbowfish, Gouramis |
#15 Three Spot Gourami
Adorned with a hypnotic blend of colors, this radiant freshwater fish is an absolute delight to behold.
Its body features a base coloration of iridescent silvery-blue, decorated with three prominent dark spots that give it its name.
One spot is located at the caudal peduncle, while the other sits centrally on the midline of the body. The third, most remarkable spot is located on its eye!
It serves as a distinct feature, capturing the attention of anyone who gazes upon this aquatic gem!
| Scientific Name: | Trichogaster trichopterus |
| Size: | 2 to 6 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivorous |
| Temperament: | Generally peaceful |
| Tank Size: | 20 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 75 – 82°F |
| Water Hardness: | 5 – 15 dGH |
| pH Value: | 6.0 – 7.5 |
| Care Difficulty: | Easy to moderate |
| Tank Mates: | Tetras, Rasboras, Corydoras Catfish, or other non-aggressive species |
#16 Tiger Barb
Many species of barbs, including Tiger Barbs, share similar color patterns characterized by prominent black band markings.
However, these band markings can vary widely in size and shape, adding to the individuality of each fish.
However, they also come in other striking colors such as green, albino, gold, and red.
Tiger Barbs are known for their active and playful nature, but they can also exhibit a somewhat aggressive temperament. To avoid aggression and promote a harmonious community, it is recommended to keep them in smaller groups.
| Scientific Name: | Puntigrus tetrazona |
| Size: | 2-3 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivorous |
| Temperament: | Semi-aggressive |
| Tank Size: | 30 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 72-79°F |
| Water Hardness: | 5-15 dGH |
| pH Value: | 6.0-7.5 |
| Care Difficulty: | Easy |
| Tank Mates: | larger Tetras, Barbs, Rainbowfish, and Cichlids |
#17 Turquoise Rainbowfish
The Turquoise Rainbowfish species has the incredible ability to exhibit a wide range of hues and patterns, influenced by factors such as water conditions, diet, and the environment it is kept in.
This diversity of colors adds a touch of vibrancy and uniqueness to each fish!
In optimal conditions, these Rainbowfish can showcase a dazzling palette of colors, including shades of cobalt blue, steel blue, aquamarine, and various tones of turquoise.
As they navigate through the water, their iridescent scales catch the light, accentuating their extraordinary colors and adding a shiny element to your tank!
| Scientific Name: | Melanotaenia lacustris |
| Size: | 4 – 5 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivorous |
| Temperament: | Generally peaceful |
| Tank Size: | 30 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 73 – 82°F |
| Water Hardness: | 5 – 15 dGH |
| pH Value: | 6.0 – 7.5 |
| Care Difficulty: | Easy to moderate |
| Tank Mates: | Tetras, Rasboras, Livebearers |
#18 Upside-Down Catfish
These catfish have an interesting adaptation where their ventral side, typically light in color, faces upwards while they swim. This well-defined characteristic sets them apart from other catfish and has earned them their common name, of course!
The dorsal side of their body is typically dark brown or black, providing excellent camouflage in their natural habitats.
One of the notable features of Upside-Down Catfish is their affinity for hiding and resting among aquatic plants, particularly those that grow on rocks!
| Scientific Name: | Synodontis nigriventris |
| Size: | 3 – 4 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivorous |
| Temperament: | Peaceful |
| Tank Size: | 20 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 75 – 82°F |
| Water Hardness: | 2 – 15 dGH |
| pH Value: | 6.0 – 7.5 |
| Care Difficulty: | Easy |
| Tank Mates: | Tetras, Rasboras, Livebearers, dwarf Cichlids |
#19 White Cloud Mountain Minnow
White Cloud Mountain Minnows are hardy little fish whose body coloration is of a beautiful silvery or light golden hue, which is complemented by a distinctive dark lateral stripe that runs horizontally along their body.
One of the standout features of these colorful freshwater fish is their vibrant and contrasting fins. The dorsal fin is usually a vibrant red color, while the anal and caudal fins exhibit a striking white or transparent appearance.
They are not only a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts but are also frequently used to stock backyard fish ponds due to their adaptability and hardiness.
Keep in mind that their ability to breed quickly and frequently can result in large numbers of offspring, potentially leading to competition with other fish for resources such as food and habitat!
| Scientific Name: | Tanichthys albonubes |
| Size: | 1.5 – 2 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivorous |
| Temperament: | Generally peaceful |
| Tank Size: | 10 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 64 – 72°F |
| Water Hardness: | 5 – 15 dGH |
| pH Value: | 6.0 – 7.5 |
| Care Difficulty: | Easy |
| Tank Mates: | Zebra Danios, Guppies, Tetras, Rasboras |
#20 Yellow Lab Cichlid
Its name perfectly describes its standout feature — an astonishing yellow coloration that brightens up any aquarium! The yellow hue spans across the Cichlid’s entire body, creating a delightful sight that is hard to ignore.
To enhance the beauty of Yellow Lab Cichlids, many aquarists choose to incorporate red aquarium plants into their tank setups.
The contrasting combination of the yellow fish against the backdrop of lush, red plants can turn every tank into a fascinating display of art!
Apart from their remarkable appearance, these Cichlids are known for their peaceful and sociable nature. They are relatively calm and get along well with other peaceful species in a community aquarium.
| Scientific Name: | Labidochromis caeruleus |
| Size: | 4 – 5 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivorous |
| Temperament: | Generally peaceful |
| Tank Size: | 30 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 75 – 82°F |
| Water Hardness: | 5 – 15 dGH |
| pH Value: | 7.8 – 8.6 |
| Care Difficulty: | Easy |
| Tank Mates: | Lake Malawi cichlids, Peacock Cichlids, Red-tail sharks, Rasboras |
#21 Zebra Danio
The Zebra Danio is a small and lively freshwater fish known for its signature zebra-like stripes, which earned it its name.
These stripes run horizontally along its sleek and elongated body, creating a noticeable contrast of alternating blue and silver colors!
Beyond their attractive stripes, these fish are also admired for their active nature. They are known for their constant swimming and playful behavior, bringing a sense of liveliness to the tank.
And active swimmers, these fish enjoy darting around the aquarium and making friends with Mollies, Tetras, and Gouramis!
| Scientific Name: | Danio rerio |
| Size: | 2 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivorous |
| Temperament: | Peaceful and active |
| Tank Size: | 10 gallons |
| Water Temperature: | 64-75°F |
| Water Hardness: | 5-15 dGH |
| pH Value: | 6.0-7.5 |
| Care Difficulty: | Easy |
| Tank Mates: | Tetras, Corydoras, Mollies, Gouramis, Rasboras, Livebearers |
Final Thoughts
The world of colorful freshwater fish offers an endless array of colors, patterns, and personalities.
Each fish brings its special charm, winning us over with its wonderful appearance and interesting behavior.
Whether you’re a seasoned aquarist or a beginner looking to create a bright underwater world, these colorful fish will never fail to amaze!
Which one is your favorite?
Hi fellow aquarists, I’m Ava and I’ve been an enthusiastic aquarium hobbyist for over four years now.
I’ve been amazed by these beautiful creatures since I was a kid and I’m thrilled to be sharing everything I’ve learned over the years with anyone who’s as passionate about the topic as I am.