150+ Fish Names: Fun, Cute & Creative Ideas for Every Fish

Giving your fish a name is one of the best parts of becoming a new aquarium owner. Whether your finned friend is the star of your living room tank, a bubbly newcomer, or a longtime sidekick, the right name can make them feel even more like part of the family. To help you find the perfect match, we’ve curated an extensive list of fish names—from unique and creative to classic, funny, and adorable options. There’s a fish name for every personality here!

Why Naming Your Fish Matters

Although fish may not always come when called, naming your aquatic companion makes them feel special and helps you connect with them. Whether you want a name that reflects their shimmering scales or their quirky behavior, the right moniker brings extra joy to every feeding time and tank-cleaning day.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Fish Name

• Consider their appearance: Look at their colors, patterns, and size for inspiration (like “Goldie” for a goldfish or “Stripe” for a zebra danio).
• Think about personality: Is your fish shy, bold, or the fastest swimmer? Names like “Dash” or “Chill” might fit.
• Play with puns: Names like “Swim Shady” or “Gill-bert” add some fun to fishkeeping!
• Match the species: Some names suit certain species, such as “Bubbles” for bettas or “Blue” for tangs.
• Include the family: If you have a school, go for matching names (like “Salt” and “Pepper”).

Classic & Popular Fish Names

You can’t go wrong with a tried-and-true classic. These names are favorites for a reason—they’re simple, cute, and timeless choices for any pet fish.

• Goldie
• Bubbles
• Finn
• Blu
• Angel
• Dory
• Nemo
• Splash
• Sunny
• Coral

Cute Fish Names

Whether your fish is tiny and delicate or just has a lovable personality, these cute fish names will have everyone swooning.

• Pearl
• Sprinkles
• Peaches
• Jellybean
• Marshmallow
• Twig
• Peanut
• Biscuit
• Pixie
• Luna

Funny & Punny Fish Names

If you like a good laugh, these funny fish names—packed with puns and wordplay—will bring a smile every time you say them:

• James Pond
• Gill-bert
• Swim Shady
• Fintastic
• Fin Diesel
• Tuna Turner
• Salmon Cowell
• Sushi
• Fish Stick
• Algae-non

Best Names for Male Fish

Whether regal, tough, or just plain charming, male fish can rock these masculine names:

• Captain
• Mojo
• Zeus
• Rocky
• Shadow
• Bruce
• Spike
• Thor
• Ace
• Bolt

Best Names for Female Fish

For females, go for pretty, powerful, or elegant names that fit their flair:

• Bella
• Daisy
• Stella
• Sassy
• Queenie
• Ivy
• Ruby
• Willow
• Penny
• Opal

Unique Fish Names

If you want to stand out, try one of these creative and unique fish names that are sure to make waves:

• Neptune
• Sapphire
• Kaleido
• Pixel
• Lotus
• Zigzag
• Quasar
• Tempest
• Reef
• Nova

Food-Inspired Fish Names

Fish names based on foods are always a delight. Here are tasty picks for any flavor of fish:

• Pickles
• Skittles
• Pumpkin
• Mochi
• Peaches
• Cocoa
• Chip
• Honey
• Olive
• Ginger

Cool Names Inspired by Fish Species & Colors

Sometimes the best names pay homage to your fish’s natural traits or species. Here are some favorites categorized by species and color:

Famous Fish Names from TV, Movies & Books

Some fish are stars in their own right! Here are popular names inspired by our favorite underwater celebrities:

• Nemo (Finding Nemo)
• Dory (Finding Nemo & Finding Dory)
• Flounder (The Little Mermaid)
• Marlin (Finding Nemo)
• Mrs. Puff (SpongeBob SquarePants)
• Bubbles (Finding Nemo)
• Gill (Finding Nemo)
• Oscar (Shark Tale)
• Don Lino (Shark Tale)
• Cleo (Pinocchio)

Names for Groups or Pairs of Fish

Got two or more fish? Double the fun with these paired or group names:

• Salt & Pepper
• Bert & Ernie
• Thelma & Louise
• Peanut & Jelly
• Bubble & Squeak
• Starsky & Hutch
• Sugar & Spice
• Pip & Squeak
• Lilo & Stitch
• Fizz & Whiz

Names for Different Types of Aquariums

Creative and Out-of-the-Box Fish Names

Unleash your imagination with fish names inspired by mythology, science, weather, and everything else under the sun:

• Poseidon
• Triton
• Galileo
• Stormy
• Zephyr
• Comet
• Echo
• Orbit
• Frost
• Myst

Frequently Asked Questions: Fish Names

Q: Can fish recognize their own names?

A: While fish may not respond to their names the way dogs or cats do, some fish, especially intelligent species like bettas and goldfish, can learn to associate their name with feeding time or interaction.

Q: What if I change my fish’s name?

A: Fish don’t form name-based bonds, so changing their name won’t cause them distress. However, consistency may help you keep track of each fish, especially in larger tanks.

Q: How do I name multiple fish in one tank?

A: Many aquarists use themed or matching names for schools or pairs (such as “Salt” and “Pepper” or “Sunrise” and “Sunset”) to keep things fun and memorable.

Q: Are there names to avoid for fish?

A: Avoid choosing names that resemble commands you use with other pets or confusing terms. Otherwise, have fun with it!

Q: Can I use human names for fish?

A: Absolutely! Fish named “Sam” or “Emily” add a personal touch, and there are no rules limiting you to fish-specific names.

Final Thoughts: How to Choose the Right Name

The perfect name for your fish is one that makes you smile every time you see your aquatic companion. Whether you pick something classic, quirky, personal, or meaningful, naming your pet fish is just another way to celebrate your unique bond—no matter how many fins, scales, or splashes they bring into your life.

Still searching for inspiration? Try mixing and matching from each section above, or create your own one-of-a-kind name. Happy naming and happy fishkeeping!

Author

Anjali Sayee

 

Anjali is an Associate Editor at StyleCraze with 7 years of experience specializing in hairstyles, hair care, and skin care. She has authored over 300 articles and offers expert advice on hair styling techniques, effective skin care routines, and tips for maintaining healthy hair and skin.

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