Aquariums are used to display different sea creatures for the people to perceive the beauty of these water-dwellers. When it comes to beauty, uniqueness is one of the factors that makes it more attractive and gorgeous. Exotic species of fishes are one of the most in-demand aquarium fishes due to their uniqueness and beautiful appearance. Mostly, exotic fishes are saltwater, but there are also freshwater ones that can live in your aquarium.
In this article, we will talk about the exotic fishes to have in your fish tank. If you want to know more about fishes, specifically cold water aquarium fish, read this article and view more related discussions here.
- Arowana
- These fishes are power swimmers originating from the South American Amazon River. The appearance of this fish are sleek and silver-colored and are known for their hunting skills in the wild. Their size and behavior makes it one of the exotic fishes, but they are not an ideal fish for beginners.
- In keeping it in your fish tank, you need to provide enough space for this fish. They are also semi-aggressive that might cause a problem when not paired appropriately with other fishes. Despite the complexity of keeping these fish, they are acknowledged as the “crowning jewel” of exotic freshwater fishes collectors.
- Wolf Cichlid
- This fish is the most aggressive Cichlid you can purchase in the market. Despite their plain looking appearance, they are hyper aggressive that can cause a problem when placed with other fishes. Owners of this fish suggest that it should be kept alone in a tank as they can harass fishes included in the tank, they are also terrifying to feed as well. They are also not an ideal fish for beginners as it may inflict an injury to the owner while feeding it.
- Discus
- Discus are intermediate fishes that are not suitable for starters. They possess a variety of colors and body patterns that make them a beautiful fish to keep. They can also be kept in a fish tank along with other fishes, but it is highly suggested to keep them with their own species. There are certain conditions that must be met if you want to keep them together with other fishes.
- Zebra Plecostomus
- From its name, you can already guess what this fish looks like. It is a type of catfish that is distinguished by the white and black stripes it has on its body, looking like a zebra. As a bottom feeder, it prefers to have a spot where it can hide. These fishes are not aggressive but it is not that ideal to keep them with many other zebra plecostomus or other fishes.
- Black Ghost Knifefish
- The name might already give you a hint on the characteristics of this fish. Aside from its terrifying appearance, it prefers low-light environments. They have a black skin and a narrow body that is shaped like a knife, and they do not have scales. They are also like eels as they can also sense electromagnetic fields. Just like Zebra Plecostomus, they prefer to hide as they are timid fishes, and come out only at night. The peaceful behavior they have makes them suitable to house to other fishes, but they are prone to illnesses.
- Freshwater African Butterflyfish
- This fish is slow moving and has a strange body structure. Due to its unchanged morphology ever since it has existed, they resemble a butterfly as their fins are shaped like wings of one. They are not for beginners also and they are aggressive fishes that can be a predator when kept with other fishes. These fishes prefer shallow waters, so it is suggested to keep them in shallow tanks for it to thrive safely and healthy.
Conclusion
Exotic Fish might be beautiful, but some of them possess potential harm if not studied and taken care of responsibly. Most of these fishes are not for beginner-level hobbyists, as they have strict conditions to be met first for them to thrive in the aquarium. Furthermore, in taking care of these fishes and other exotic ones, it is important to know their nature and to study them carefully to avoid any potential danger. Always be knowledgeable about what you are taking care of.