Exotic and Endemic species of Aquarium fishes

Exotic and Endemic species of Aquarium fishes: There are many exotic and endemic species that add beauty, intrigue, and diversity to tanks.

What is ornamental fish?

Fish kept or raised as ornaments are done so for their visual appeal. When goldfish were domesticated in China more than a millennium ago, decorative fish breeding got off. Today, many fish species are highly valued for their unique markings (e.g., koi carp).

Exotic and Endemic species of Aquarium fishes

Exotic aquarium fish species are those that are not indigenous to a certain area but are purposefully or inadvertently brought in for the aquarium trade. The term “endemic” refers to aquarium fish species that are unique to a particular area or environment and cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Exotic Aquarium Fish Species

In India, exotic ornamental fish have become quite popular due to their vibrant colors, unique appearances, and interesting behaviors, making them a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts. Here are some notable exotic ornamental fish that are commercially important in India:

1. Koi Carp (Cyprinus rubrofuscus)

• Description: Koi are large, colorful fish that are often associated with Japanese culture. They come in a variety of colors, including red, white, yellow, and black.
• Market: Highly prized in India for ornamental pond settings, especially in upscale homes and commercial establishments.

2. Goldfish (Carassius auratus)

• Description: A popular and well-known ornamental fish, goldfish come in many varieties, including the fancy goldfish with distinct tail and body shapes.
• Market: Widely kept in India for home aquariums and ponds.

3. Betta Fish (Betta splendens)

• Description: Known for their vibrant colors and flowing fins, bettas are hardy and easy to care for, though males can be territorial.
• Market: Popular in India for small, individual aquariums due to their beauty and minimal care requirements.

4. Discus Fish (Symphysodon spp.)

• Description: Discus are recognized for their round, disk-shaped bodies and vibrant colors. They come in a variety of hues, including red, blue, and green.
• Market: Though they require more care and attention, discus fish are highly sought after by dedicated aquarium hobbyists in India.

5. Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)

• Description: Known for their elegant triangular body shape, angelfish are available in several color morphs, including silver, black, and marble.
• Market: A favorite in home aquariums and freshwater tanks in India, particularly for their beauty and peaceful temperament.

6. Guppies (Poecilia reticulata)

• Description: Small, hardy fish that come in a variety of colors, including red, blue, and yellow. They are livebearers, meaning they give birth to live young.
• Market: Extremely popular in India due to their easy care and wide availability.

7. Mollies (Poecilia sphenops)

• Description: Mollies are small, peaceful fish available in various colors, such as black, gold, and dalmatian. They are often kept in community aquariums.
• Market: Common in India, as they are hardy and adapt well to different water conditions.

8. Swordtails (Xiphophorus hellerii)

• Description: Swordtails are named for the long, sword-like extensions of the males’ tails. They come in a variety of colors, including red, green, and gold.
• Market: Popular for ornamental aquariums in India, especially for their vibrant colors and active nature.

9. Neon Tetras (Paracheirodon innesi)

• Description: These small, schooling fish are known for their striking blue and red coloration, making them popular in aquariums.
• Market: Common in India, often used in community aquariums.

10. Cichlids (Amatitlania nigrofasciata)

• Description: Cichlids, like the Convict Cichlid (Amatitlania nigrofasciata) or the Oscar (Astronotus ocellatus), are popular for their bold colors and unique personalities.
• Market: Increasingly popular in India, particularly among aquarists who enjoy keeping larger and more territorial species.

11. Zebra Danios (Danio rerio)

• Description: These small fish have distinct horizontal stripes of blue and silver, making them easy to identify. They are hardy and active.
• Market: Popular in India for community tanks due to their peaceful nature and resilience.

12. Platies (Xiphophorus maculatus)

• Description: Platies are small, livebearers that come in a wide range of colors, including red, yellow, and blue.
• Market: Common in India, they are especially favored for beginner aquariums.

13. Tetras (Hemigrammus rhodostomus)

• Description: Tetras are small, colorful fish that are often found in schools. Species like the Rummy-nose Tetra (Hemigrammus rhodostomus) are especially appreciated for their beauty.
• Market: Widely kept in India, particularly in well-maintained community aquariums.

14. Arowana (Scleropages formosus)

• Description: Known as the “dragon fish,” arowanas are large, sleek fish with metallic scales and long fins. They are considered symbols of luck and prosperity in many cultures.
• Market: Arowanas are highly prized in India, especially in ornamental pond settings, though they are considered a luxury fish.

15. Tiger Barbs (Puntius tetrazona)

• Description: Tiger Barbs are known for their bright orange and black striped bodies, making them stand out in any tank. They are active and tend to live in schools.
• Market: Popular in India, especially for community aquariums.

16. Oscar Fish (Astronotus ocellatus)

• Description: Oscars are large, aggressive fish with a range of colors and patterns, including orange, red, and black.
• Market: Common in India, particularly among aquarists looking for larger, more dynamic fish.

17. Marine Species:

• Clownfish (Amphiprioninae), Tang Fish (like the Blue Tang or Yellow Tang), and Lionfish (Pterois spp.) are increasingly being imported and kept in marine aquariums in India.
• Market: Though more specialized, marine fish have a niche but growing market in coastal cities where saltwater aquariums are more common.

These exotic ornamental fishes are often sold in specialized fish shops and markets, and their popularity is growing across the country, especially with the increasing interest in aquarium setups among hobbyists. However, due to concerns about sustainability and the impact on natural ecosystems, it is essential that these fish are sourced responsibly from certified breeders and suppliers.

Introducing exotic species into new habitats can have ecological consequences, including competition with native species, predation, and habitat alteration. Therefore, responsible aquarium keeping and proper disposal of unwanted fish are essential to prevent the spread of exotic species into natural ecosystems.

Endemic Aquarium Fish Species

India is home to a diverse range of freshwater ornamental fish species, many of which are endemic to the country. These species are highly valued for their vibrant colors, unique patterns, and adaptability to aquarium settings. Here are some notable endemic ornamental fish species found in India:

1. Mahseer (Tor spp.)

• Description: Mahseer is a large and strong fish, often referred to as the “tiger of the water.” These fish are known for their beauty and are often found in fast-flowing rivers.
• Market: While they are mainly prized by anglers, some species of Mahseer, like the Golden Mahseer (Tor putitora), have ornamental value.
• Endemic Area: Found in the rivers of the Western Ghats, the Himalayan foothills, and other parts of central and northern India.

2. Ganges Shark (Glyphis gangeticus)

• Description: A freshwater species of shark, this fish is native to the Ganges River and has ornamental value due to its unique and sleek appearance. However, it is very rare in aquariums due to its size and specialized care needs.
• Endemic Area: The Ganges River and other parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain.

3. Barbs (Puntius spp)

• Description: Several species of Puntius (also known as barbs) are endemic to India. These fish are small, hardy, and come in vibrant colors, making them a popular choice in freshwater aquariums.
  • Examples:
    • Puntius denisonii (Denison’s Barb or Red-Line Torpedo)
    • Puntius ticto (Ticto Barb)
• Market: Widely appreciated for their small size, vivid colors, and peaceful nature.
• Endemic Area: Found throughout India, particularly in the rivers and lakes of the Western Ghats, and the northeastern regions.

4. Indian Glass Fish (Parambassis ranga)

• Description: This species is also known as the Indian Glassfish due to its transparent, almost glass-like body. It’s a small, peaceful species that is popular in community tanks.
• Market: Popular in both domestic and international ornamental fish markets.
• Endemic Area: Found in the rivers of India, particularly in the southern and eastern parts.

5. Koi Carp (Cyprinus rubrofuscus) – Indian Varieties

• Description: While the Koi carp is generally associated with Japan, several varieties of Koi carp have been selectively bred in India, making them a prominent ornamental species. These fish are highly prized for their vibrant colors.
• Market: Widely used in decorative ponds and aquariums in India.
• Endemic Area: While Koi carp are not native to India, they have been integrated into local ornamental fish markets for many years, particularly in states like West Bengal.

6. Siamese Fighting Fish (Betta splendens) – Indian Varieties

• Description: Though native to Southeast Asia, Betta splendens (Siamese fighting fish) has a variety of color morphs that have become distinct within India due to selective breeding.
• Market: Highly popular in India due to their vibrant colors and unique fighting behavior.
• Endemic Area: These fish are native to Southeast Asia but have a long-standing presence in ornamental fishkeeping in India.

7. Indian Mudskipper (Periophthalmus spp.)

• Description: Known for its ability to move on land and water, the Indian Mudskipper is an amphibious fish with a fascinating behavior that makes it a unique addition to aquariums.
• Market: Niche market, due to their unique behavior and specific care needs.
• Endemic Area: Coastal regions of India, particularly in mangrove swamps and estuaries.

8. Barilius spp.

• Description: Species like Barilius barna and Barilius vagra are small, active fish found in fast-flowing streams and rivers. They are known for their silvery body and attractive, slender shape.
• Market: Appreciated in the aquarium trade for their agility and the aesthetic appeal they add to aquariums.
• Endemic Area: Common in the rivers and streams of the Himalayas and other parts of India.

9. Indian Glassfish (Parambassis ranga)

• Description: Known for its transparent, glass-like body, the Indian Glassfish is a small but attractive species that’s ideal for aquariums.
• Market: Popular in both domestic and international markets.
• Endemic Area: Found in rivers of India, particularly in the southern and eastern regions.

10. Labeo spp.

• Description: Labeo species are also popular in India for ornamental purposes. Labeo rohita, for example, is commonly known as Rohu, which is a major fish in Indian aquaculture but also appreciated for ornamental purposes.
• Market: Common in Indian aquariums.
• Endemic Area: Found across many freshwater habitats in India, including the Ganges and other river systems.

11. Rainbow Fish (Danio spp.)

• Description: The Danio species, such as Danio rerio (Zebra Danio), are small, hardy fish that come in a variety of colors and patterns. While not strictly endemic, some varieties are selectively bred in India.
• Market: Widely popular in India for their vibrant color and ease of care.
• Endemic Area: Found throughout India in various freshwater habitats.

12. Gudgeon Fish (Oxyeleotris spp.)

• Description: Known for their unique appearance, these fish are small and often have an interesting blend of colors. They are hardy and can thrive in both freshwater and brackish water conditions.
• Market: Popular in certain niche ornamental fish markets.
• Endemic Area: Found in rivers and freshwater systems across India.

13. Mystus spp. (Asian Catfish)

• Description: Several species of Mystus catfish are found in India. These are small, active fish often seen in freshwater aquariums due to their peaceful nature and attractive body shapes.
• Market: Popular in aquariums, especially in community tanks.
• Endemic Area: Found across India, especially in freshwater river systems.

Many of these species are endemic to specific regions in India and are often found in sensitive ecosystems such as river systems and wetlands. It is important to ensure that ornamental fish are sourced sustainably to avoid over-exploitation of these valuable species. Additionally, habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change can threaten their populations, making conservation efforts crucial for their continued survival and availability in the ornamental fish trade.

Overall, both exotic and endemic species contribute to the diversity and appeal of the aquarium hobby, but responsible aquarium keeping practices are essential to minimize ecological impacts and conserve these valuable fish species for future generations.