Before setting up an aquarium in your home, one question is, what can be the coolest-looking fish? Well, there is no such thing. Today, we are going to talk about the coolest-looking fish and colorful freshwater fish that those who are interested in beautifying their home display can choose.
Here, we have listed many different freshwater fish and exotic species. Here we have shown some fish that can become the coolest-looking fish in your home aquarium.
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Betta fish
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Angelfish
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Celestial Pearl Danio
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Neon tetra
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African butterfly fish
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Black ghost knifefish
But apart from that, we are also talking about the 50 Coolest Looking Fish for Freshwater Aquarium that will make your home display beautiful and attractive. We will discuss the size, lifespan, and much more of these fish, which will prove to be better information for you.
30 best Coolest Looking Fish for Freshwater Aquarium in (2025)
50 Coolest Looking Fish
1. Betta Fish
The iconic betta fish remains the ultimate cool fish for any aquarium enthusiast. Male bettas showcase vibrant bright colors and flowing fins that create mesmerizing displays. Their aggressive nature means they often do best in species-only tanks, though they’re perfect for smaller setups.
Maximum size: 3 inches
Life expectancy: 2-4 years
Minimum tank requirement: 5 gallons
Water temperature: 76-82°F
pH level: 6.5-7.5
Important info: Requires heater, avoid tank mates with long fins, prone to jumping
2. Angelfish
Graceful and elegant, angelfish bring sophistication to any community aquarium. These peaceful fish thrive in heavily planted tanks with compatible tank mates, making them ideal for larger community setups.
Maximum size: 6 inches
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Minimum tank requirement: 30 gallons
Water temperature: 75-82°F
pH level: 6.0-7.5
Important info: Tall tanks preferred, may eat very small fish, pair-bonding species
3. Celestial Pearl Danio
These nano fish pack incredible beauty into their small size. Their galaxy-like spots and peaceful schooling fish behavior make them favorites among aquascapers seeking unique small fish for community tanks.
Maximum size: 1 inch
Life expectancy: 3-5 years
Minimum tank requirement: 10 gallons
Water temperature: 72-79°F
pH level: 6.5-7.5
Important info: Keep in groups of 6+, prefer heavily planted tanks, shy without cover
4. Cardinal Tetra
Brilliant blue and red coloration make cardinal tetras some of the most stunning fish available. These peaceful fish create breathtaking displays when kept in small schools in community aquarium setups.
Maximum size: 2 inches
Life expectancy: 4-5 years
Minimum tank requirement: 20 gallons
Water temperature: 73-81°F
pH level: 5.0-7.0
Important info: Prefer soft, acidic water, school of 6+ recommended, sensitive to water changes
5. Peacock Gudgeon
With incredible color patterns featuring blues, yellows, and reds, peacock gudgeons are truly beautiful fish. They adapt well to various species in community tank environments.
Maximum size: 2.5 inches
Life expectancy: 4-5 years
Minimum tank requirement: 15 gallons
Water temperature: 72-79°F
pH level: 6.0-7.5
Important info: Cave spawners prefer multiple hiding spots, peaceful but territorial when breeding
6. Pea Puffers
Despite their small size, pea puffers have a big personality among fish due to their unique colors. Puffers are interesting fish with their specific dietary requirements and like to live in territorial associations with smaller fish, which is why they require species-only tanks.
Maximum size: 1 inch
Life expectancy: 4-5 years
Minimum tank requirement: 5 gallons
Water temperature: 74-82°F
pH level: 6.5-8.0
Important info: Require live/frozen foods, will nip fins, need snails for beak maintenance
7. Kuhli Loach
These snake-like bottom dwellers add movement to community tanks. Their unique banded patterns and peaceful nature make them excellent choices for small groups in larger tank setups.
Maximum size: 4 inches
Life expectancy: 10-14 years
Minimum tank requirement: 20 gallons
Water temperature: 75-86°F
pH level: 5.5-7.0
Important info: Keep in groups of 3+, prefer soft substrate, excellent escape artists
8. Glass Catfish
Their transparent bodies create a unique visual experience, allowing you to observe their internal structure. These delicate fish require stable water quality and gentle tank mates in community aquarium environments.
Maximum size: 6 inches
Life expectancy: 6-8 years
Minimum tank requirement: 30 gallons
Water temperature: 72-79°F
pH level: 6.0-7.0
Important info: School of 5+, very sensitive to water parameters, stress easily
9. African Butterfly Fish
Representing one of the weirdest fish in the hobby, these surface dwellers showcase wing-like pelvic fins. Their prehistoric appearance makes them a standout species for experienced aquarists.
Maximum size: 5 inches
Life expectancy: 6-8 years
Minimum tank requirement: 40 gallons
Water temperature: 73-80°F
pH level: 6.0-7.5
Important info: Excellent jumpers, need a tight-fitting lid, surface feeder, can glide short distances
10. Hillstream Loach
These current-loving fish require specific tank setups with strong water movement. They’re best suited for species-only tanks or with other stream-dwelling native fish species.
Maximum size: 3 inches
Life expectancy: 8-10 years
Minimum tank requirement: 20 gallons
Water temperature: 68-75°F
pH level: 6.5-7.5
Important info: Need high oxygen levels, strong current, cool water, and algae grazers
11. Tiger Barb
Active swimmers with bold stripes, tiger barbs bring energy to community tanks. These vibrant colors fish prefer large groups and need compatible tank mates that can handle their boisterous nature.
Maximum size: 3 inches
Life expectancy: 5-7 years
Minimum tank requirement: 20 gallons
Water temperature: 74-79°F
pH level: 6.0-8.0
Important info: Semi-aggressive, keep in groups of 6+, may nip slow fish, very active
12. Cory Catfish
Essential members of any community aquarium cleanup crew, these peaceful fish work in small groups. Different species offer various color patterns while maintaining similar care requirements.
Maximum size: 1-4 inches (species dependent)
Life expectancy: 10-15 years
Minimum tank requirement: 20 gallons
Water temperature: 72-78°F
pH level: 6.0-7.8
Important info: Bottom dwellers, keep in groups of 3+, prefer soft substrate, excellent cleaners
13. Bristlenose Plecostomus
Their bristly faces and algae-eating habits make them both useful and fascinating. These species adapt well to various tank conditions in community setups.
Maximum size: 6 inches
Life expectancy: 10-15 years
Minimum tank requirement: 25 gallons
Water temperature: 73-81°F
pH level: 6.5-7.5
Important info: Excellent algae eaters, need driftwood, nocturnal, produce lots of waste
15. Golden Wonder Killifish
Surface-dwelling species with beautiful metallic coloration, these fish prefer live foods and work well in appropriate community tank arrangements.
Maximum size: 4 inches
Life expectancy: 3-5 years
Minimum tank requirement: 20 gallons
Water temperature: 72-75°F
pH level: 6.0-7.5
Important info: Excellent jumpers, need the tight lid, prefer live foods, surface swimmer
16. Bumblebee Goby
These brackish water specialists display striking yellow and black patterns. They require specialized care and understanding of their natural habitat requirements.
Maximum size: 1.5 inches
Life expectancy: 3-4 years
Minimum tank requirement: 10 gallons
Water temperature: 72-84°F
pH level: 7.0-8.5
Important info: Prefer brackish water, territorial, require live/frozen foods, cave spawners
17. Dwarf Cichlid
Offering cichlid personality in smaller packages, these species work in community setups when provided proper territorial boundaries and an adequate minimum tank size.
Maximum size: 2-4 inches (species dependent)
Life expectancy: 3-8 years
Minimum tank requirement: 20 gallons
Water temperature: 72-82°F
pH level: 6.0-8.0
Important info: Territorial when breeding, prefer caves, water parameters vary by species
18. Fancy Guppies
Available in countless bright color combinations, these hardy live-bearing fish remain popular for their adaptability and ease of care in home aquarium setups.
Maximum size: 2.5 inches
Life expectancy: 2-3 years
Minimum tank requirement: 10 gallons
Water temperature: 72-82°F
pH level: 6.8-7.8
Important info: Livebearers, breed readily, males are more colorful, and prefer harder water
19. Black Molly
Providing solid black coloration that contrasts beautifully with brighter species, these hardy tropical fish work well for beginners learning proper aquarium maintenance.
Maximum size: 4 inches
Life expectancy: 3-5 years
Minimum tank requirement: 20 gallons
Water temperature: 72-78°F
pH level: 7.0-8.5
Important info: Livebearers prefer slightly alkaline water, and can adapt to brackish conditions
20. Ram Cichlids
Peaceful dwarf cichlids that display their best colors during breeding periods. They’re suitable for well-planned community tanks with compatible, peaceful fish.
Maximum size: 3 inches
Life expectancy: 2-3 years
Minimum tank requirement: 20 gallons
Water temperature: 78-85°F
pH level: 6.0-7.0
Important info: Prefer warm, soft water, short lifespan, pair bonding, sensitive to water quality
21. Zebra Danios
Hardy, active fish perfect for beginners, displaying distinctive black and white striping patterns. These species thrive in various tank conditions.
Maximum size: 2 inches
Life expectancy: 3-5 years
Minimum tank requirement: 10 gallons
Water temperature: 64-75°F
pH level: 6.5-7.0
Important info: Very hardy, school of 5+, active swimmers, excellent beginner fish
22. Neon Tetra
Small but brilliant, neon tetras create glowing effects when kept in large groups. These peaceful schooling fish add vibrant colors to any community aquarium.
Maximum size: 1.5 inches
Life expectancy: 5-8 years
Minimum tank requirement: 10 gallons
Water temperature: 68-79°F
pH level: 5.0-7.0
Important info: School of 6+, prefers soft acidic water, sensitive to ammonia, and stress easily
23. Gourami Species
Peaceful fish with unique ventral fins modified into thread-like sensors. Various species offer different color options for community tank diversity.
Maximum size: 2-6 inches (species dependent)
Life expectancy: 4-6 years
Minimum tank requirement: 10-30 gallons
Water temperature: 75-82°F
pH level: 6.0-8.0
Important info: Labyrinth fish can breathe air, males build bubble nests, territorial when breeding
24. Cherry Barb
With their ruby-red hue, cherry barbs bring warmth and charm to community setups. These peaceful fish work well with other non-aggressive species.
Maximum size: 2 inches
Life expectancy: 4-6 years
Minimum tank requirement: 25 gallons
Water temperature: 73-81°F
pH level: 6.0-8.0
Important info: Peaceful barb species, school of 6+, males are more colorful, prefer planted tanks.
25. Pearl Gourami
Their shimmering, pearl-like spots and long fins make them visual delights in larger community tanks with adequate swimming space.
Maximum size: 5 inches
Life expectancy: 4-5 years
Minimum tank requirement: 30 gallons
Water temperature: 77-82°F
pH level: 6.0-8.0
Important info: Peaceful, males build elaborate bubble nests, prefer planted tanks, labyrinth fish
26. Paradise Fish
With long flowing fins and vibrant color patterns, paradise fish are as striking as they are territorial. They require careful tank mate selection.
Maximum size: 4 inches
Life expectancy: 6-8 years
Minimum tank requirement: 20 gallons
Water temperature: 61-72°F
pH level: 6.0-8.0
Important info: Can tolerate cooler water, aggressive, labyrinth fish, need a tight lid.
27. Apistogramma
These dwarf cichlids boast stunning fish coloration and interesting behaviors. They work well in species-only tanks or carefully planned community setups.
Maximum size: 3 inches
Life expectancy: 3-5 years
Minimum tank requirement: 20 gallons
Water temperature: 72-86°F
pH level: 6.0-7.0
Important info: Prefer soft, acidic water, cave spawners, territorial when breeding, require hiding spots
28. Endler’s Livebearer
A cousin of the guppy, Endler’s livebearers are small fish with flamboyant color patterns perfect for nano fish enthusiasts.
Maximum size: 1.8 inches
Life expectancy: 2-3 years
Minimum tank requirement: 10 gallons
Water temperature: 72-82°F
pH level: 7.0-8.5
Important info: Livebearers breed readily, prefer harder water, and males are more colorful
29. Rummy Nose Tetra
Their bright red noses and tight schooling behavior make them mesmerizing to watch in large groups within community aquarium environments.
Maximum size: 2 inches
Life expectancy: 5-6 years
Minimum tank requirement: 20 gallons
Water temperature: 75-84°F
pH level: 5.0-6.8
Important info: Indicator species for water quality, school of 6+, prefer soft acidic water
30. Congo Tetra
Displaying rainbow-like scales, Congo tetras add shimmer and grace to larger tanks with their peaceful community fish nature.
Maximum size: 3.5 inches
Life expectancy: 3-5 years
Minimum tank requirement: 30 gallons
Water temperature: 73-82°F
pH level: 6.0-7.5
Important info: School of 6+, males are more colorful with extended fins, prefer planted tanks
31. Boesemani Rainbowfish
With color gradients from blue to yellow, these fish are lively additions, bringing vibrant colors to any large tank setup.
Maximum size: 4.5 inches
Life expectancy: 5-8 years
Minimum tank requirement: 30 gallons
Water temperature: 75-86°F
pH level: 7.0-8.0
Important info: Very active, school of 6+, prefer alkaline water, excellent jumpers
32. Sparkling Gourami
Tiny yet dazzling, their iridescent scales shimmer under aquarium lighting. These nano fish work well in heavily planted tank environments.
Maximum size: 1.5 inches
Life expectancy: 4-5 years
Minimum tank requirement: 10 gallons
Water temperature: 72-79°F
pH level: 6.0-7.0
Important info: Labyrinth fish prefer planted tanks, males build bubble nests, peaceful.
33. Odessa Barb
Males display striking bright red stripes running across their bodies. These active fish prefer small schools in community tank setups.
Maximum size: 3 inches
Life expectancy: 3-5 years
Minimum tank requirement: 30 gallons
Water temperature: 72-79°F
pH level: 6.0-7.0
Important info: Males are very colorful, school of 6+, semi-aggressive, prefer planted tanks
34. Rosy Barb
Blush-toned and peaceful, rosy barbs are colorful schooling species that adapt well to various water temperature ranges.
Maximum size: 6 inches
Life expectancy: 5-6 years
Minimum tank requirement: 30 gallons
Water temperature: 64-72°F
pH level: 6.0-8.0
Important info: Hardy, prefer cooler water, schools of 6+, males are more colorful
35. Glowlight Danio
A glowing orange stripe along their bodies gives these fish their distinctive appearance. They’re hardy species suitable for community aquarium setups.
Maximum size: 1.5 inches
Life expectancy: 3-4 years
Minimum tank requirement: 10 gallons
Water temperature: 72-75°F
pH level: 6.0-7.0
Important info: School of 6+, peaceful, prefer planted tanks, good beginner fish
36. White Cloud Mountain Minnow
These hardy fish display elegant looks with red fins and iridescent bodies. They’re a perfect cool fish for beginners seeking a low-maintenance species.
Maximum size: 1.5 inches
Life expectancy: 5-7 years
Minimum tank requirement: 10 gallons
Water temperature: 64-72°F
pH level: 6.0-8.0
Important info: Very hardy, prefer cooler water, school of 6+, can tolerate temperature fluctuations
37. Gold Barb
Their golden scales add brightness and energy to community tanks. These peaceful fish work well with various species in larger setups.
Maximum size: 3 inches
Life expectancy: 4-6 years
Minimum tank requirement: 20 gallons
Water temperature: 68-75°F
pH level: 6.0-8.0
Important info: Peaceful barb, school of 6+, prefer planted tanks, good community fish
38. Rainbow Shiner
Native fish to North America, displaying iridescent flashes of purple, blue, and pink. They bring natural habitat beauty to home aquarium setups.
Maximum size: 3 inches
Life expectancy: 3-4 years
Minimum tank requirement: 30 gallons
Water temperature: 59-72°F
pH level: 6.5-8.0
Important info: Need cool water, school of 6+, very active, seasonal color changes
39. Siamese Algae Eater
These fish maintain tank cleanliness while providing sleek, streamlined visual appeal. They’re excellent additions to community aquarium cleanup crews.
Maximum size: 6 inches
Life expectancy: 10+ years
Minimum tank requirement: 30 gallons
Water temperature: 75-79°F
pH level: 6.0-8.0
Important info: Excellent algae eaters, can become territorial with age, very active
40. Clown Loach
Known for bright colors of orange and black stripes, they’re lively and social bottom dwellers requiring large tank accommodations.
Maximum size: 12 inches
Life expectancy: 10-15 years
Minimum tank requirement: 75 gallons
Water temperature: 75-86°F
pH level: 6.0-7.5
Important info: Social, keep in groups of 3+, slow growing, produce clicking sounds
41. Yo-Yo Loach
Named for markings resembling “YOYO,” these active fish are entertaining additions to community tanks with adequate space.
Maximum size: 6 inches
Life expectancy: 10-15 years
Minimum tank requirement: 40 gallons
Water temperature: 75-81°F
pH level: 6.0-7.5
Important info: Social, keep in groups, nocturnal, excellent snail control
42. Royal Farlowella
This fish Royal Farlowella gives people a different experience in their stick figure. The Farlowella species adds extraordinary beauty to the freshwater aquarium setup with its unique body shape. And gives an aquarium enthusiast a different look in their home display.
Maximum size: 8 inches
Life expectancy: 8-10 years
Minimum tank requirement: 40 gallons
Water temperature: 75-79°F
pH level: 6.5-7.5
Important info: Peaceful, requires driftwood, algae grazers, sensitive to water quality
44. Pictus Catfish
The Pictus Catfish has a great look with its black spots and silver coloration on its body. The Pictus is a bottom dweller that is always active, and is a rare and somewhat unique species of Catfish that moves at the bottom of a community aquarium setup.
Maximum size: 5 inches
Life expectancy: 8-10 years
Minimum tank requirement: 55 gallons
Water temperature: 75-81°F
pH level: 7.0-7.5
Important info: Very active, prefer groups, long barbels, may eat small fish
45. Bumblebee Catfish
With stripes resembling those of bumblebees, these small fish bring charm to tank floors while maintaining peaceful community behavior.
Maximum size: 3.5 inches
Life expectancy: 4-5 years
Minimum tank requirement: 20 gallons
Water temperature: 70-77°F
pH level: 6.5-7.5
Important info: Nocturnal, prefer hiding spots, peaceful, good community fish
46. Freshwater Lionfish (Datnoid)
Often called freshwater lionfish, these striped predators are bold and impressive additions requiring large tank accommodations.
Maximum size: 16 inches
Life expectancy: 10+ years
Minimum tank requirement: 125 gallons
Water temperature: 75-82°F
pH level: 6.0-7.5
Important info: Predatory, will eat smaller fish, prefer live foods, need large tanks
47. SnakeRope Fish
Snake-like in appearance, rope fish add mysterious vibes to aquarium setups. They require specific care and understanding of their natural habitat.
Maximum size: 15 inches
Life expectancy: 10+ years
Minimum tank requirement: 50 gallons
Water temperature: 75-85°F
pH level: 6.0-8.0
Important info: Escape artists need a tight lid, prefer soft substrate, and can breathe air
48. Archerfish
Known for shooting water to hunt insects, they’re an interactive and fascinating species, bringing unique behaviors to freshwater tanks.
Maximum size: 12 inches
Life expectancy: 7-10 years
Minimum tank requirement: 55 gallons
Water temperature: 75-82°F
pH level: 7.0-8.0
Important info: Can shoot water accurately, prefer brackish water, need open surface area
49. Black Ghost Knifefish
Their undulating swimming style and ghostly coloration make them mesmerizing additions to larger community tank setups.
Maximum size: 20 inches
Life expectancy: 10+ years
Minimum tank requirement: 100 gallons
Water temperature: 73-80°F
pH level: 6.0-7.0
Important info: Generate weak electrical fields, nocturnal, prefer caves, sensitive to water quality
50. Elephant Nose Fish
With trunk-like extensions, these fish use electrical signals for navigation. They represent some of the weirdest fish available to aquarium enthusiasts.
Maximum size: 9 inches
Life expectancy: 6-10 years
Minimum tank requirement: 50 gallons
Water temperature: 73-82°F
pH level: 6.0-7.5
Important info: Generate electrical fields, are highly intelligent, prefer soft substrate, need excellent water quality, and require long-term housing
Essential Equipment and Supplies
Success requires proper equipment and understanding of basic care requirements. A care guide helps new aquarists understand feeding schedules, water change routines, and disease prevention. Many pet store locations offer advice and necessary supplies, though online retailers often provide better pricing with free shipping options.
Feeding and Nutrition
Understanding different dietary needs ensures optimal fish health. Live foods provide excellent nutrition, while quality prepared fish food meets daily requirements. Brine shrimp serve as a fantastic supplement, and meaty foods satisfy carnivorous species’ needs.
Different species require varied feeding approaches, from surface feeders to bottom dwellers. Large groups may require multiple feeding locations to ensure all individuals receive adequate nutrition.
Common Names and Species Identification
Many fish species go by various common names, which can create confusion when researching care requirements. Understanding scientific names helps ensure accurate identification and proper care information. Getty Images and other visual resources aid in species identification, although consulting multiple sources provides the most reliable information.
Conclusion
Creating stunning freshwater aquarium displays requires understanding each species’ unique requirements and compatibility with tank mates. From peaceful schooling fish to more specialized species, the variety available ensures every aquarist can find their perfect combination.
The native fish hobby continues growing as more people discover the joy of maintaining home aquariums. Whether starting with hardy beginner species or diving into more challenging varieties, success comes from research, patience, and dedication to providing proper care.
The life span of aquarium fish varies greatly between species, making long-term planning essential for continued success. With proper care and attention to water quality, these beautiful creatures provide years of enjoyment and fascination.
Remember that full-page research and consulting care guides help ensure the best possible outcomes for both fish and aquarist. The incredible diversity of freshwater species means there’s always something new to discover and appreciate in this rewarding hobby.
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Hi, I’m Mr. Sajid Ali, the owner of Pet Verse. With years of experience in aquarium care. We provide valuable and trusted information about aquarium fish, tank equipment, and fish species. On this website, I guide beginners and hobbyists to choose the right fish, set up aquariums, Read More
