Top 7 Most Expensive Aquarium Fish In The World

When it comes to the world of aquarium fish, some species stand out not just for their beauty but also for their staggering price tags. These aquarium fish exhibit a wide range of vibrant colors, can be cross-bred, and come in various sizes, making them attractive as household pets.

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While most regular fish pets cost a few dollars to purchase, these can set you back at thousands of dollars, especially due to their rarity and being highly endangered, which makes obtaining them legally challenging.

Here we would like to share with you the top 7 most expensive aquarium fish that money can buy.

7. Golden Basslet (Up to $8,000)

Credit: Haplochromis via Wikimedia Commons

The Golden Basslet, scientifically known as Serranus chrysomelas, is a captivating saltwater fish that commands a hefty price. Despite its diminutive size of reaching only around 2 inches in length, it sells for approximately $7,000 to $8,000.

These golden wonders inhabit the deep waters of the Caribbean coral reefs, swimming at depths of around 50 to 80 meters. The fish has a unique combination of purple, black, and of course golden markings across its body.

Their rarity and the need for specialized decompression techniques to bring them to the surface contribute to their exorbitant price tag.

6. Bladefin Basslet (Up to $10,000)

Credit: reef builders

The Bladefin Basslet, scientifically known as Jeboehlkia gladifer, is the smallest expensive fish on this list measuring around 1.5 inches in length. The striking red and white coloration reminds us of the elusive peppermint angelfish.

However, what truly sets the Bladefin Basslet apart is its incredible depth of occurrence over 490 feet deep. For being such a tiny fish, its price tag however is quite the opposite with each costing a staggering $10,000.

5. Masked Angelfish (Up to $20,000)

Credit: Marine Collectors

The Masked Angelfish, scientifically known as Genicanthus personatus is a species native to the waters around Hawaii, particularly the Midway and Kure Atolls. Females typically have a mostly white body with a black “mask” on the face and black on the fins, while males have a similar pattern but with an orange “mask” instead.

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This striking contrast makes them a standout addition to any marine aquarium. Although not particularly rare in the wild, these fish are difficult to catch due to commercial fishing laws and the depths at which they live.

The price of a single masked angelfish can reach as high as $20,000.

4. Peppermint Angelfish (Up to $30,000)

The Peppermint Angelfish, scientifically known as Centropyge boylei, is a small, candy-striped fish renowned for its vibrant red and white coloration, resembling peppermint candy. With prices reaching up to $30,000, the Peppermint Angelfish is a true luxury item in the aquatic world.

These fish are native to the deep waters of the Central Pacific Ocean, particularly around the Cook Islands. Collecting them is a challenging and hazardous task, as they inhabit depths of around 400 feet. Specialized divers are required to reach these depths, and the process involves significant risks, including decompression sickness.

These fish are relatively small, reaching up to 3 inches in length, and they thrive in well-maintained reef aquariums with plenty of hiding spots and live rock formations.

3. Freshwater Polka Dot Stingray (Up to $100,000)

Known for its distinctive black or brown body adorned with striking white polka dots, the Freshwater Polka Dot Stingray is one of the most expensive aquarium fish with prices as high as $100,000.

The fish is native to the Xingu River in Brazil and unfortunately, its natural habitat is under threat due to habitat destruction and overfishing. These stingrays can grow to about a foot and a half in length, with females often being larger than males.

They require large aquariums, typically around 500 gallons, to thrive.

2. Golden Monkey Flowerhorn ($600,000)

Credit: Huy-Thoai, Shutterstock

The Golden Monkey Flowerhorn has set a new record for being the most expensive aquarium fish ever sold for a whopping $600,000 in Malaysia in 2009. This flowerhorn fish boasts a unique coloration and pattern with white-to-black markings and a red hue all over its face.

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In the Far East, owning a Golden Monkey Flowerhorn is believed to bring good luck and fortune, especially in gambling. The hump on its head resembles the Chinese god of longevity, and as the fish grows, the owner’s luck is said to increase as well.

I guess paying $600,000 for this fish might be worth it after all if luck is on your side that is.

1. Asian Arowana (>$300,000)

The Asian Arowana is renowned not only for its striking appearance but also for its extraordinary price tag with the Platinum costing $300,000 or more. This fish, native to Southeast Asia, is celebrated for its metallic sheen and vibrant colors, which can range from red and gold to green and blue.

Its allure is not just in its appearance; in many Asian cultures, it is considered a symbol of luck and prosperity, further enhancing its value. The rarity of the Asian Arowana significantly contributes to its high cost.

These fish are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), making them challenging to obtain legally. Each specimen is microchipped before sale to ensure authenticity and traceability.

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