10 Most Expensive Fish You Can Own

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

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When it comes to aquariums, some fish are more than just companions; they are living treasures. From dazzling colors to rare features, these aquatic wonders come with price tags that reflect their uniqueness. Let’s dive into the world of the ten most expensive pet fish, exploring why these beauties are worth the splurge.

1. Asian Arowana – The Million-Dollar Dragon

Asian arowana
hartono subagio/pixabay

The Asian Arowana, or Dragon Fish, is the crown jewel of aquarium fish. Known for its shimmering scales and elegant swimming style, this species is a symbol of wealth and prosperity in many Asian cultures. Its rarity and cultural significance drive its price to jaw-dropping levels, with some varieties selling for over $1 million. The fish’s color variations, such as red or gold, further elevate its value. Breeding Asian Arowana is an intricate process requiring precise care, making them even more exclusive. Owning one is not just a statement of affluence but a commitment to preserving a piece of aquatic heritage.

2. Freshwater Polka Dot Stingray

Freshwater Stingray
Christine Schmidt from Laurel, CC BY 2.0/ Wikimedia Commons

The Freshwater Polka Dot Stingray is a marvel of nature with its unique spotted pattern and graceful movements. Native to the rivers of South America, this stingray is highly sought after by aquarium enthusiasts for its mesmerizing appearance. Its price, which can reach up to $100,000, is due to its rarity and the expertise needed to care for it. This species requires a spacious tank and specific water conditions to thrive, making it a challenging but rewarding addition to any collection. Its exotic charm and gentle demeanor make it a true standout in the world of luxury fish.

3. Zebra Pleco—The Black and White Marvel

zebra pleco
By Peaceinpianos – CC BY-SA 4.0,/commons.wiki

The Zebra Pleco is a stunning addition to the world of expensive aquarium fish, instantly recognizable by its striking black-and-white striped pattern. Native to Brazil’s Rio Xingu, this species commands prices of up to $1,000 due to its rarity and the challenges involved in its breeding. Its nocturnal habits and relatively small size make it a unique yet manageable addition to home aquariums. The Zebra Pleco thrives in tanks with excellent water quality and plenty of hiding spots, offering aquarists a mesmerizing and elegant centerpiece that adds both charm and intrigue to any collection.

4. Peppermint Angelfish

Peppermint_Angelfish_(Paracentropyge_boylei),_Waikiki_Acquarium
By Wmpearl – Own work, CC0,/ commons.wiki

The peppermint angelfish is a small but vibrant addition to the list of expensive fish, with its striking red-and-white striped body resembling a candy cane. Found in the deep reefs of the Central Pacific, this rare fish is incredibly challenging to capture, which explains its price tag of up to $30,000. Its shy nature and need for specific tank conditions make it a delicate addition to an aquarium. Yet, its beauty and rarity make it a prized possession for dedicated aquarists. Watching this fish glide through the water is akin to owning a piece of underwater art.

5. Masked Angelfish

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By George Berninger Jr. – CC BY-SA 3.0,/ commons.wiki

The Masked Angelfish, with its pristine white body and contrasting black mask, is a vision of elegance. Native to the waters around Hawaii, this species is rarely seen in aquariums due to its elusive nature and high demand. Prices can soar to $20,000, making it a luxury item in the aquatic world. Its peaceful temperament and stunning appearance make it a favorite among seasoned collectors. However, its limited availability and the challenges of mimicking its natural habitat mean it’s best suited for expert aquarists who can provide meticulous care.

6. Golden Basslet

golden basslet
By Haplochromis – CC BY-SA 4.0/ commons.wiki

The Golden Basslet is a tiny treasure of the deep, known for its vibrant yellow hue and iridescent glow. Despite its small size, this fish commands a hefty price of up to $8,000. Found in deep ocean waters, its capture requires specialized equipment and expertise, adding to its exclusivity. Its striking appearance makes it a jewel in any aquarium, but its need for a carefully monitored environment poses a challenge. The Golden Basslet is a testament to the saying that big things come in small packages, offering unmatched beauty for those willing to invest in its care.

7. Neptune Grouper

Neptune grouper
By John E. Randall – CC BY-SA 3.0, https/commons.wiki

The Neptune Grouper is a showstopper with its bold orange and yellow stripes. Native to deep waters, this fish is rarely seen in the aquarium trade, with prices reaching up to $6,000. Its stunning coloration and robust build make it a captivating addition to any collection. However, its large size and specific dietary needs mean it requires a spacious and well-maintained tank. Despite these challenges, the Neptune Grouper’s rarity and aesthetic appeal make it a highly sought-after species among luxury fish enthusiasts.

8. Clarion Angelfish

Clarion_angelfish
By Elias Levy -, CC BY 2.0, https:/commons.wiki

The Clarion Angelfish is a vibrant orange beauty accented with electric blue markings. Found around the remote Revillagigedo Islands near Mexico, this fish is highly protected, adding to its exclusivity and price, which can exceed $5,000. Its peaceful nature and striking colors make it a favorite for display tanks, though its habitat needs are complex. Aquarists lucky enough to own a Clarion Angelfish enjoy a living masterpiece that embodies the allure of the ocean’s hidden treasures.

9. Japanese Koi – The Ornamental Icon

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Japanese Koi are a symbol of beauty and tranquility, making them one of the most prized fish among collectors. While commonly associated with outdoor ponds, high-grade Koi, especially rare varieties like Kohaku or Taisho Sanke, are also showcased in large indoor aquariums. These fish can sell for thousands of dollars, with exceptional specimens fetching prices over $10,000. Their vibrant colors, unique patterns, and serene swimming style make them a mesmerizing addition to any aquatic display. Owning Japanese Koi is not just about aesthetics—it’s a celebration of tradition and artistry.

10. Koi Betta – The Living Watercolor

koi betta fish
ivabalk/pixabay

The Koi Betta is a vibrant and artistic marvel of the aquarium world, with its multicolored patterns reminiscent of koi fish. This Betta variant, often priced up to $1,500 for rare and show-quality specimens, is highly sought after for its stunning appearance and unique color morphs. Known for its hardy nature and captivating swimming style, the Koi Betta is a perfect blend of beauty and resilience. Its care requirements are straightforward, making it a more accessible option for enthusiasts looking to add a splash of color and elegance to their aquarium while still owning an extraordinary fish.

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