Whether you're after small species or larger fish, this guide will introduce you to some of the top 10 most popular pet fish in Australia. From tropical freshwater species to pond favourites, there's a fish for every fan.
Pet Fish Species
There are many different species of pet fish to choose from, each with its own unique needs and characteristics. When choosing what pet fish are right for you, you’ll get you need to consider the size of your aquarium, how many fish it can house, what fish are compatible with each other and what water conditions you will keep your tank too. If you’re after fish for a pond, you’ll need to get fish that can thrive in a freshwater environment. Here are some popular pet fish options.
Popular Small Aquarium Fish
Small aquarium fish are perfect for those new to fishkeeping or anyone with limited space. These species are typically easy to care for, vibrant, and full of character.
Betta Fish
Description: Betta fish, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are famous for their striking colours and long, flowing fins. Native to the shallow waters of Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and Cambodia, these fish are often found in rice paddies and slow-moving streams.
Size: Betta fish typically grow up to 6cm in length.
Ideal Water Temperature: 24°C to 27°C.
Social Behaviour: Betta fish are solitary and can be aggressive towards other fish, particularly other Bettas. It's best to keep them alone or in a community tank with non-aggressive species.
Lifespan: Betta fish can live for 2 to 4 years with proper care.
Angelfish
Description: Angelfish are known for their graceful, triangular bodies and long, trailing fins. They originate from the warm waters of the Amazon Basin in South America and are admired for their elegant appearance.
Size: Angelfish can grow up to 15 cm in height and 15 cm in length.
Ideal Water Temperature: 24°C to 28°C.
Social Behaviour: Angelfish can live in a community tank, but they are semi-aggressive and may not get along with smaller or very peaceful species.
Lifespan: Angelfish typically live for 10 to 12 years in a well-maintained aquarium.
Guppies
Description: Guppies are small, active fish with bright colours and lively personalities. Originally from rivers and streams in South America, they are one of the most popular species for home aquariums due to their hardiness and ease of care.
Size: Guppies grow to about 2.5 to 5 cm in length.
Ideal Water Temperature: 24°C to 26°C.
Social Behaviour: Guppies are peaceful and thrive in a community tank. They enjoy being in groups.
Lifespan: Guppies typically live for 2 to 3 years.
Large Aquarium Fish
If you have the space and experience, large aquarium fish can be a stunning addition to your home. These species often require more specialised care and larger tanks but are well worth the effort.
Oscar Fish
Description: Oscar fish are large, robust fish with bold patterns and a strong personality. Native to the slow-moving waters of the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America, Oscars are known for their intelligence and can even recognise their owners.
Size: Oscar fish can grow up to 35 cm in length.
Ideal Water Temperature: 23°C to 27°C.
Social Behaviour: Oscars are territorial and can be aggressive. They are best kept with other large, robust fish or in a species-only tank.
Lifespan: Oscars can live for 10 to 15 years with proper care.
Clownfish
Description: Clownfish, made famous by the movie Finding Nemo, are small, brightly coloured marine fish. They are native to the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific, often found living among sea anemones.
Size: Clownfish typically grow up to 10 cm in length.
Ideal Water Temperature: 24°C to 27°C.
Social Behaviour: Clownfish are generally peaceful and can be kept in pairs or small groups. They are marine fish and require a saltwater aquarium.
Lifespan: Clownfish can live for 6 to 10 years in a well-maintained marine tank.
Tropical Fish Species
Tropical fish add vibrant colours and dynamic behaviour to any aquarium. These species thrive in warmer water temperatures, making them ideal for heated tanks. While all the fish above fall into this category, lets explore some other popular tropical fish species.
Bristlenose Pleco
Description: The Bristlenose Pleco is a small, nocturnal catfish known for its algae-eating habits. It has a flattened body with bristle-like structures on its face, especially prominent in males. This species is native to the Amazon River Basin.
Size: Bristlenose Plecos grow up to 15 cm in length.
Ideal Water Temperature: 23°C to 27°C.
Social Behaviour: Bristlenose Plecos are peaceful and can coexist with most other freshwater fish, making them a great addition to community tanks.
Lifespan: Bristlenose Plecos can live for 5 to 8 years.
Silver Dollar
Description: Silver Dollar fish are round, flat, and silver in colour, resembling a coin. They are native to the rivers of South America, particularly the Amazon Basin.
Size: Silver Dollars grow up to 15-20 cm in length.
Ideal Water Temperature: 24°C to 28°C.
Social Behaviour: Silver Dollars are peaceful schooling fish and should be kept in groups of five or more.
Lifespan: Silver Dollar fish can live for 10 years or more.
Discus Fish
Description: Discus fish are admired for their round, laterally compressed bodies and vibrant colours. Native to the Amazon River, they are often considered the "king" of the aquarium due to their striking appearance.
Size: Discus fish can grow up to 15 cm in diameter.
Ideal Water Temperature: 26°C to 30°C.
Social Behaviour: Discus fish are peaceful and thrive in groups. They do best in species-specific tanks or with other calm, non-aggressive fish.
Lifespan: Discus fish can live for 10 to 15 years in optimal conditions.
Best Fish for Outdoor Pond Australia
Outdoor ponds offer a natural setting for larger fish species. These fish not only add beauty to your garden but also help maintain the ecological balance of the pond.
Koi
Description: Koi are large, colourful fish originally bred in Japan from common carp. They are known for their bright patterns and are a popular choice for outdoor ponds due to their size and hardiness.
Size: Koi can grow up to 60 cm or more, depending on the pond size.
Ideal Water Temperature: 15°C to 25°C, but they can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Social Behaviour: Koi are social and thrive in groups. They are peaceful and can live with other pond fish like Goldfish.
Lifespan: Koi have a long lifespan, often living 25 to 35 years, with some even reaching over 50 years.
Goldfish
Description: Goldfish are one of the most common and recognisable pet fish. They come in a variety of shapes and colours and are originally domesticated from wild carp in East Asia.
Size: Goldfish can grow up to 30 cm, depending on their environment.
Ideal Water Temperature: 10°C to 25°C, making them adaptable to various climates.
Social Behaviour: Goldfish are social and can live with other Goldfish or similar-sized species. They are often kept in outdoor ponds alongside Koi.
Lifespan: Goldfish can live for 10 to 20 years, with some reaching up to 30 years.
FAQs about Popular Pet Fish
Best fish for home aquarium?
For a home aquarium, especially for beginners, the best fish are typically small, hardy species like Guppies, Betta Fish, and Neon Tetras. These fish are easy to care for, thrive in community tanks, and add vibrant colours to your aquarium.
What are some colourful fish for aquarium?
If you're looking to add colour to your aquarium, consider species like Betta Fish, Guppies, Angelfish, and Discus Fish. These species are known for their bright, striking colours and are sure to enhance the visual appeal of your tank.
What are common aquarium fish?
Common aquarium fish include species like Goldfish, Guppies, Betta Fish, and Neon Tetras. These fish are widely available, relatively easy to care for, and popular among both novice and experienced fish keepers.