Most Colorful and Small Aquarium Fish
Are you looking for colorful and small aquarium fish for your new or existing aquarium? With this list, you will find the fish you’re looking for!
We’ve listed the most colorful and small pet fish for you. All of these fish were carefully selected from those ranging between 3cm to 10cm in size. An important point to note is that some of these fish are schooling fish, and it’s recommended to keep them in groups.
Most of the fish we chose are suitable for beginners, and are easy species to care for. Whether you’re just starting out or are experienced, you’ll find the fish species here that you need to have a splendid-looking aquarium to delightfully watch.
1. Banded rainbowfish
The Rainbowfish, which will captivate you with its colors, has many subspecies. The most well-known among them are the Neon Rainbowfish, Boesemani Rainbowfish, Turquoise Rainbowfish, and Three-striped Rainbowfish.
Although all the aforementioned Rainbowfish species possess different colors, their common feature is their vibrant and elegant hues. However, there is one among them that stands out due to its spectacular colorful patterns.
Melanotaenia Boesemani (Boesemani Rainbowfish) manages to distinguish itself from the rest with its blue-gray front half and orange-yellow back half. The most compatible species for this fish are those similar in character to it, such as Barbs, Tetras, Mollies, Swordtails, Gouramis, and Angelfish.
- Care level: Intermediate
- Adult size: 8-9cm
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
- Behavior: Peaceful
- Aquarium size: 90+ liters
- Some compatible species: Barb, Tetra, Molly, Green Swordtail, Gourami, Angelfish
2. Cherry barb
The Cherry Barb gets its name from the bright red color that covers its body. This soothing fish to watch harmonizes perfectly with Rasboras and Neon Tetras. The more companions they have in the aquarium, the more active and playful they become.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-care-for species with great visual appeal and peaceful nature, the Cherry Barb is one of the fish you might be looking for. It’s especially one of the first choices that should be considered for beginners. Additionally, they should be added to the aquarium in groups of 6 or more.
- Care level: Easy
- Adult size: 4-5cm
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Behavior: Peaceful
- Aquarium size: 40+ liters
- Some compatible species: Dwarf Sucking Catfish, Gourami, Tetra, Common Molly, Guppy, Ram cichlid
3. Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid
They are members of a family also known as Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlids. There are many fish in the Apistogramma species with fantastic colors. However, it’s challenging to mention all of them.
Among colorful, small aquarium fish, they are one of the rare ones possessing a multitude of color combinations. They are a very special species, boasting bright colors like sea blue, blue, yellow, and orange.
When observing them, not just their colors, but their splendidly shaped fins will catch your eye. In many aquarium fish, the males usually have much more vibrant colors than the females. In Apistogramma, this difference is less pronounced. Compared to other fish species, the females have more vivid colors.
Care level: Easy
- Adult size: 6-7 cm
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Behavior: Moderately aggressive
- Aquarium size: 60+ liters
- Some compatible species: Rasbora, Tetra, Cory Catfish, Guppy, Ram Cichlid, Dwarf Sucking Catfish
4. Cardinal Tetra
We wanted to evaluate Cardinal Tetra and Neon Tetra together since they closely resemble each other. While many people see them as one species, there are actually a few minor differences between them.
The red-colored stripe on the Cardinal Tetra’s belly extends the full length of its body, while on the Neon Tetra, this stripe starts from the middle and goes to the tail. You can better understand the difference in the provided image; the one on the left is the Neon, and the one on the right is the Cardinal Tetra. Another difference is that the Cardinal is slightly larger.
Both these species, which are among the tiny aquarium fish, need to be kept in schools. You should acquire them in groups of at least 6 individuals.
With their bright blue stripe and red bellies, they are striking fish that immediately make their presence known in the aquarium.
- Care level: Easy
- Adult size: 4-5 cm
- Lifespan: 4-5 years
- Behavior: Peaceful
- Aquarium size: 40+ liters
- Some compatible species: Mosquito Rasboras, Harlequin rasbora, Dwarf gourami, Guppy, Common Molly, Zebrafish, and their own kind Black, Ember, Emperor Tetras
5.Dwarf gourami (Colisa Lalia)
Many Gourami species are not small fish. As its name suggests, the Dwarf Gourami is one of the smallest among its kind. It is a fish with spectacular colors that can be kept in communities with other peaceful aquarium fish.
It has an oval-shaped body with large dorsal and anal fins. Gourami species belong to the group called Labyrinth fish, which comes in various color varieties. The male fish’s color is more vivid compared to the female.
Dwarf Gouramis can be seen in metallic blue, powder blue, neon blue, flame red, honey color, and can also be found in plain, single colors without any patterns.
- Care level: Easy to Intermediate
- Adult size: 6-7 cm
- Lifespan: 3-4 years
- Behavior: Peaceful
- Aquarium size: 60+ liters
- Some compatible species: Cardinal and Neon Tetra, Rasbora, Guppy, Dwarf Sucking Catfish, other small fish that are active at the surface
6. Gold barb
Originally green in its natural habitat, the Golden Barb has been selectively bred to attain its golden color. Much like the Cherry Barb, this species should also be kept in schools.
It can be kept in community tanks in groups of 6 or more. Despite being a small aquarium fish, it’s a very resilient species. They can survive even under challenging conditions.
- Care level: Easy
- Adult size: 7-8 cm
- Lifespan: 4-5 years
- Behavior: Peaceful
- Aquarium size: 70+ liters
- Some compatible species: Tetra, Rasbora, Guppy, Dwarf Sucking Catfish, Slender danios, Gourami species
7. Ram Cichlid (Mikrogeophagus Ramirezi)
The Ram Cichlid is a member of the cichlid species. There are many types with various colors. Like the Gourami, this fish is also a dwarf cichlid.
Not only the body of the Ram Cichlid is colorful, but its eyes are also vibrant. They possess red eyes with black stripes. With their unique colors and personalities, they add significant value to community aquariums.
It’s important to ensure the water is clean and its parameters are stable for this species. Ram Cichlid fish can get stressed easily, which is why their care level is considered to be of medium difficulty.
Fish that you add alongside them should be of similar size, smaller fish, and should primarily occupy the middle to upper swimming zones.
- Care level: Medium
- Adult size: 6 cm
- Lifespan: 4-5 years
- Behavior: Peaceful
- Aquarium size: 60+ liters
- Some compatible species: Freshwater Angelfish, Cardinal and Neon Tetras, Cory Catfish, Gourami, Guppy, Southern platyfish
8. Guppy (Poecilia Reticulata)
The Guppy, is a popular species recognized by almost everyone considering starting the aquarium hobby. Guppies come in a variety of colors, patterns, and tail and fin shapes. We presume you’d have a hard time choosing among them.
Easy to care for, guppies are especially recommended for beginners. Another advantage is that they can get along with almost every other species of fish, except for the larger and aggressive ones.
There are blue, yellow, orange, green, bronze, black, and many more colored guppy varieties. It’s a species with a broad range of combinations. Not only based on colors, but there are also dozens of guppy varieties according to their tail types.
Based on tail types, some of the guppies are: Triangle-tailed, Fan-tailed, Flag-tailed, Double sword-tailed, and Top sword-tailed. Beyond these, there are also varieties that differ based on their fins, with the most popular being the Elephant Ear Guppy.
- Care level: Easy
- Adult size: 5-6 cm
- Lifespan: 2-3 years
- Behavior: Peaceful
- Aquarium size: 40+ liters
- Some compatible species: Tetras, Cory Catfish, Gourami, Dwarf Sucking Catfish, Slender danios, Southern platyfish, Molly, Gourami
9. Ram cichlid
Among the Ramirezi species, our favorite is the Electric Blue variation. This is a Ramirezi type that doesn’t exist in the wild and was selectively bred by aquarists.
This strikingly bright blue fish brings a unique ambiance to the aquarium. In terms of character and many features, it’s similar to the Ramirezi mentioned in number 7.
- Care level: Intermediate
- Adult size: 6 cm
- Lifespan: 4-5 years
- Behavior: Peaceful
- Aquarium size: 60+ liters
- Some compatible species: Cory Catfish, Gourami, Freshwater angelfish, Cardinal and Neon Tetras, Guppy, Southern platyfish, Common Molly
10. Zebrafish (Brachydanio Rerio)
Zebra Danios are peaceful fish that prefer to live in groups of 5 or more. In reality, zebras don’t have the vivid and bright colors as shown in the image above. They are artificially bred to have fluorescent colors through a process called transgenesis.
The original colors of this freshwater fish are dark blue and yellow. They get their name from the horizontal stripes on their bodies. Watching these fish swim, especially in groups, is very enjoyable due to their high activity level.
Zebra danios are easy to care for and get along very well with other fish in the aquarium.
- Care level: Easy
- Adult size: 5 cm
- Lifespan: 5 years
- Behavior: Peaceful
- Aquarium size: 50+ liters
- Some compatible species: Peaceful species of their own size
11. Killifish
With its stunning colors and subspecies, this species fully deserves its place on our list.
The most well-known variety has a bright blue body with red vertical stripes. This fish has proven its resilience by adapting to various water parameters.
When properly fed, this small fish will always display its vibrant colors. Even though it’s among the smaller aquarium fish, it’s a true pleasure to watch.
Other types of Killifish include: Lyretail Killifish, Kisaki Killifish, Volcano Killifish, Redspot Panchax, Striped Panchax, and Least Killifish.
- Care level: Medium
- Adult size: 6 cm
- Lifespan: 2-5 years
- Behavior: Peaceful
- Aquarium size: 50+ liters
- Some compatible species: Neon and Cardinal Tetras, Livebearers, Bushymouth catfish, and Cory Catfish.
12. Danio margaritatus
The Galaxy Rasbora, also known as Celestial Pearl Danio, stands out with its colorful spots and is quite a small species.
Initially, they can be a bit skittish and might hide when you approach the aquarium. However, once they get accustomed to their environment, they swim freely, displaying their vibrant colors without fear.
Although it’s not mandatory, keeping them in groups is beneficial for a visually pleasing and stress-free environment. Given their small size, it’s advisable to avoid housing them with larger fish.
- Care level: Easy
- Adult size: 2 – 2.5 cm
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- Behavior: Peaceful
- Aquarium size: 35+ liters
- Some compatible species: Tetras, Guppies, Killifish, Cory Catfish, Common Molly, Red Cherry Shrimp, and Amano Shrimp.
13. Paradise fish (Macropodus Opercularis)
The Paradise Fish, compared to other species on our list, is relatively larger (still considered a small aquarium fish). However, it would have been a mistake not to include such a vibrantly colored species.
The issue with this fish is its quarrelsome and predatory nature. They desire to be the dominant species in any aquarium they inhabit. They will consistently show aggression towards larger or same-sized fish.
If one wishes to keep them, it’s best to do so as a single species. Maintaining a ratio of 1 male to 4 females will ensure peace within the tank. Ideally, the aquarium should be well-planted with ample hiding spaces.
- Care level: Easy
- Adult size: 10 cm
- Lifespan: 8-9 years
- Behavior: Moderately aggressive
- Aquarium size: 75+ liters
- Some compatible species: It’s more appropriate to keep them as a single species. In community tanks, they can be housed with peaceful, larger cichlids.
14. Endler’s livebearer (Poecilia Wingei)
Endler Balığı canlı renkli, uysal ve küçük bir balıktır. Renk kombinasyonları oldukça geniştir. Sarı, mavi, turuncu, yeşil gibi birçok farklı renge sahip olabilir.
Akvaryuma renk ve hareket katan oldukça aktif balıklardır. Bakım konusunda da sahibini hiç yormaz, bakımı son derece kolaydır.
Akvaryum hobisine yeni başlıyor olsanız bile Endler asla sorun yaratmayacaktır. Yaşam alanı Lepistesler ile aynı bölgedir. Zaten birbirlerine akraba, çok benzer türlerdir.
- Care Level: Easy
- Adult Size: 5 cm
- Lifespan: 3 years
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Tank Size: 40+ liters
- Compatible Species: Non-aggressive small to medium-sized fish species
15. Siamese fighting fish (Betta Splendens)
Bettas are undeniably among the most colorful aquarium fish. Through selective breeding, the betta fish can have hundreds of color, pattern, and fin combinations. If you spend just a few minutes researching about aquariums, it’s impossible not to come across bettas.
In addition to their vibrant colors, another advantage is their small size. Being members of the labyrinth fish family, these creatures, unfortunately, are often found waiting to be sold in jars. Regardless of the circumstances, no fish should be kept in such small containers.
While we haven’t come across any specific research, our guess is that betta fish might be the most popular freshwater fish species. You can be assured that their stunning appearances and movements will captivate you.
It’s strongly recommended to keep these creatures alone. However, if you do want some company for them, with caution, you can add fish from the list provided below.
- Care Level: Easy
- Adult Size: 6-7 cm
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- Behavior: Moderately aggressive
- Aquarium Size: 40+ liters
- Some Compatible Species: Zebra Danio, Cory Catfish, Rasbora (Bettas tend to stay near the surface, so if you don’t have a large-volume aquarium, it’s best not to add other species.)
16. Purplehead barb (Pethia Nigrofasciata)
Black Ruby Barb is a species that needs to be kept in shoals. The recommended group size is 8 or more. The deep red-purple color on their heads is not commonly seen in aquarium fish.
Males are smaller and more colorful than females. Due to these characteristics, they are also known as Purple Head Barb. Unfortunately, habitat degradation in the wild and excessive collection have put this species at risk.
In their juvenile stage, they aren’t very colorful fish. Young Black Ruby Barbs are of a pale, light yellow color and only take on their true shade as they mature.
- Care Level: Easy
- Adult Size: 5-6 cm
- Lifespan: 4-5 years
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Tank Size: 80+ liters
- Some Compatible Species: Tetras, Gouramis, Cory Catfish, Zebra Danio, Barb species
17. Mücevher Tetra (Hyphessobrycon Callistus)
Recommended for beginners. Like other Tetra species, the Jewel Tetra is also a small fish. Their flame-colored appearance and incessant movement will bring vitality to your aquarium.
Being schooling fish, they should be kept in groups of 6 or more. In their natural habitat, they are accustomed to plant roots and water residues, so they feel more comfortable in planted aquariums. If you don’t use excessive lighting, you can watch their spectacular group movements.
- Care Level: Easy
- Adult Size: 5 cm
- Lifespan: 5-7 years
- Behavior: Peaceful
- Tank Size: 50+ liters
- Some Compatible Species: Bottom-dwelling fish (Cory Catfish, Bushymouth catfish), Barbs, Tetras, Danios
18. Common Molly (Poecilia Sphenops)
There are various types such as Black, White, Silver, and Dalmatian Molly. They are also classified according to their tail types. The image above belongs to the golden-yellow Moon Tail Molly fish.
This small, cute aquarium fish is a peaceful livebearer that can get along with many other fish, making it suitable for beginners.
There is also a transgenic version called the Balloon Molly. While they can coexist with many species, it’s recommended to keep them as a single species in the tank, excluding bottom-dwelling species, to provide them with a stress-free environment.
- Care Level: Easy
- Adult Size: 6 cm
- Lifespan: 4-5 years
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Tank Size: 60+ liters
- Some Compatible Species: Guppies, Danios, Southern platyfishes, Tetras, Freshwater angelfish, Green swordtail, Bushymouth catfish, Cory Catfish (often referred to as “cleaner fish” or “catfish”)
19. Southern platyfish (Xiphophorus Maculatus)
Southern platyfishes are similar in appearance to Green swordtail and Common Mollies. They are known for their gentle nature and resilience. They have been kept in aquariums for over a century.
Males are smaller than females. They can be seen in a variety of colors and patterns. They are still one of the fish species that are being crossbred to produce new varieties.
With shades of red, green, yellow, white, and orange, as well as mixed patterns, they are one of the most adaptable fish species.
- Care Level: Easy
- Adult Size: 6 cm
- Lifespan: 3-4 years
- Behavior: Peaceful
- Tank Size: 50+ liters
- Some Compatible Species: Guppies, Common Mollies, Tetras, Danios, Green swordtail, Bushymouth catfish
20. Green swordtail (Xiphophorus helleri)
Green swordtails are favored by many hobbyists for their striking colors, ease of care, and peaceful nature. They get their name from the sword-like tails they possess. They are closely related to Platies.
This distinctive tail shape is present in male fish, but not in females. They are a peaceful species, but male swordtails can show aggressive behavior towards other males of their kind to establish dominance.
In actuality, these fish can reach up to 15 cm in length. However, nearly half of this size is due to their tails. Ignoring their tails, we have included them in our list of colorful and small aquarium fish.
- Care Level: Easy
- Adult Size: 15 cm
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Tank Size Requirement: 60+ liters
- Compatible Species: Common Mollies, Freshwater Angelfish, Gouramis, Tetras, Guppies, Bushymouth catfish, Dwarf suckers, Barbs
Which Ones Did You Choose?
We have listed 20 colorful and small aquarium fish for you. So, which of these fish caught your attention the most?
If you have decided on a fish, you should definitely learn the needs of the fish you’ve chosen. Based on that, it’s essential to set up the right aquarium with compatible species.
FAQs
Which is the Most Beautiful Aquarium Fish?
It would be unjust to name just one fish as the answer to this question. Cichlids, Gouramis, Bettas, and Tetras; each of these aquarium types has beautiful fish that can rival each other. By taking a look at our list, you too can find that one fish.
Which is the Smallest Aquarium Fish?
With a size of just 1 cm, the world’s smallest freshwater aquarium fish is the Paedocypris Progenetica. Following them, smaller shrimp species from the crustacean family could be considered.
Which Fish Clean the Aquarium?
One of the easiest ways to rid the aquarium of algae and leftover food debris is to add a few appropriate fish. Some invertebrates and fish species that can help clean the aquarium include Dwarf suckers, Bushymouth catfish, Siamese Algae Eaters (SAE), common mollies, Cory Catfish, Channeled applesnail ,and Planorbis rubrum. Additionally, in our opinion, the best algae eaters are various shrimp species.
Kaynaklar: Wikipedia