Top 10 Most Expensive Fish in the World | DPFunFacts

Pets are beloved by humans for their companionship, but the most mesmerizing attraction is the fish We keep them in small aquariums, but some are incredibly expensive, with rare species selling for hundreds, thousands, or even millions. Some unusual species with quirky features and rare coloration are sold for these incredible amounts. Let’s find out which are the 10 most expensive fish in the world.

1. Bluefin Tuna

In 2019, Japanese sushi tycoon Kiyoshi Kimura purchased a 612-pound bluefin tuna for $3.1 million at the Tsukiji fish market in Tokyo. This marks Kimura's third consecutive record-breaking tuna purchase at the event, following his previous record in 2013, 2014, and 2015. Bluefin tuna is highly prized in Japan for its rich, fatty meat and is considered a delicacy for sushi and sashimi dishes. However, overfishing and declining populations have raised concerns about the sustainability of bluefin tuna fishing. Conservation efforts have been implemented to protect the species, but high prices for bluefin tuna persist in auctions and the seafood market.

2. Koi Fish 

Koi prices range from under $10 to hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars, depending on factors like location, breed quality, availability, and demand. Most stores sell locally bred or imported grade-A types, while grade-A fish are imported from Japan and other countries with reputable breeders. These cheaper grade-A breeds have regular fins and rarely exceed 15 inches in length. High-quality koi fish, bred exclusively by top Japanese breeders, are the most expensive, often large or jumbo-sized. Miss Yingying, a koi enthusiast and collector, purchased the 39-inch Kōhaku variety S Legend for $1.8 million in October 2018. Unfortunately, multiple sources reveal S Legend died in 2019.

3. Flowerhorn Cichlid

The most expansive Flowerhorn Cichlid name Golden Monkey was sold for $600,000 in Malaysia in 2009. Flowerhorn cichlids can be expensive due to rarity, aesthetics, breeding, and demand. Rare and difficult-to-breed varieties are sought after for their striking colors, patterns, and distinctive head shape. Breeding high-quality Flowerhorn cichlids requires careful selection, attention to water quality, and environmental factors. Demand is high among aquarium hobbyists, particularly in Asia, leading to rising prices.

4. Platinum Arowana

In general, Arowana fish can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

The most expensive Arowana ever sold was a Platinum Arowana that sold for over $400,000 USD.

They are highly sought after due to its rarity, high demand, and endangered status. In Asia, the Arowana is associated with cultural beliefs, as it symbolizes unlimited luck and prosperity. Breeding in captivity is difficult, and the fish is considered a status symbol. With millions of people wanting to own this rare and valuable fish, the price of this rare and endangered species is expected to rise due to its high demand.

5. Peppermint Angelfish

The peppermint angelfish is a highly sought-after and expensive species, with a high listed price of $30,000. It is a dangerous and costly species to collect, as divers must descend 400 feet into the ocean for proper decompression and personal health. 

6. Masked Angelfish

The price of a masked angelfish can be between $16,000 to $20,000. While prices can vary depending on factors such as size, age, and location, such high prices are not typical for this species. They are sequential protogynous hermaphrodite, can change sex from female to male upon reaching sexual maturity. Their coloration is correct, with males having black tails and females having yellow fins.

7. Bladefin Basslet

The Bladefin Basslet is a rare species with a unique coloration and habitat in deep ocean reefs in the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean. Known for their orange color with white stripes, they can be difficult to catch due to their deep waters. Their high price ranges from $3,000 to $10,000 per fish, depending on size and quality. Despite their high price, Bladefin Basslets are popular among aquarium hobbyists due to their unique coloration and small size.

8. Platinum Alligator Gar

Platinum Alligator Gars are rare, expensive fish species with a platinum color and can grow up to 10 feet. The price can reach up to $7000 and require specialized aquarium setups, space, and filtration for survival. They are predatory and aggressive, so it's crucial to consider their compatibility with other fish. Investing in a specialized aquarium is significant, but research and ethical considerations are essential.

Obtaining these fish from reputable sources prioritizes the health and welfare of the fish.

9. Clarion Angelfish

The Clarion Angelfish, an endangered species with orange body and blue stripes, is a beautiful fish with a lifespan of up to 15 years. Despite their rarity, they are sold for around $2,500. A captive breeding program in Bali aims to reduce their disappearance, but the acquisition price remains high.

10. Zebra Plecostomus

Zebra Plecostomus, a popular freshwater aquarium fish, is native to Rio Xingu, Brazil. They require a well-maintained aquarium with hiding places and a strong filtration system. A 30-gallon tank is sufficient for a small group.Prices range from $200 to $500 per fish, considering size, quality, and habitat maintenance.

Aquarium fish are a diverse market with rarity, beauty, size, and unique characteristics. Their price varies based on factors like demand, location, and seller's reputation, making them valuable and rare. Factors like demand, location, and seller's reputation also impact the value of aquarium fish.