Tropical Fish Encyclopedia — 71 Species Directory

Colorful cichlids from Lakes Malawi and Tanganyika. Marine-like beauty in freshwater. Active and full of personality.

Iconic triangular silhouette synonymous with tropical fish. Many selectively bred varieties. Pair breeding is rewarding.

Small South American cichlid. Males display vivid colors and unique behaviors. Over 100 species available.

A dwarf cichlid spreading vivid orange fins. Male fin spreading display is spectacular.

One of world's smallest freshwater fish turning deep red. Schooling looks like a ruby jewelry box.

An ultra-small killifish with black-yellow stripes and distinctive rocket-shaped tail fin.

A larger tetra that shimmers in iridescent blue, gold, and orange. Males develop flowing, feathery tail fins, making this dazzling schooler the flagship African characin.

A small freshwater puffer with beautiful leopard pattern. High intelligence, some recognize owners.

Jewel-like small cichlid with blue iridescence. Peaceful for community tanks but prefers warm water. Many variants.

Distinctive hatchet-shaped body. Surface-dwelling fish that swims just below water line. Jumping risk — lid essential.

Small beautiful fish found worldwide. Males display incredibly vivid colors like gems. Over 1000 species, popular with enthusiasts.

Surface fish with distinctive axe (hatchet) -shaped body. 'Flying fish' that glides on water surface flapping pectoral fins like wings. Unique marble pattern and distinctive silhouette make it a striking accent in planted tanks.

A large cichlid that bonds like a dog. Charming begging behavior makes it the representative pet fish.

African ancient fish with dinosaur-like appearance and air-breathing ability. Hardy and long-lived. Nocturnal.

Small rainbowfish with thread-like elongated fins. Each fin extends like thread, with an elegant swaying appearance in water. Ideal for single-species small tanks or as an accent in planted tanks. Prefers gentle water flow.