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Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →A 2019 published list puts the reported values of ten tropical fish between $1,000 and $400,000. Those figures are historical claims from one article—not verified, comparable prices buyers can expect today. Geography, currency, specimen size, variety and breeding status all affect what a fish may cost.
What are the most expensive tropical fish?
The following ranking reproduces the amounts reported in a 2019 article. The source does not establish sale dates, specimen sizes, geography or a consistent pricing method, so treat the figures as that article’s reported values—not current asking prices, confirmed auction results or a definitive global ranking.
| Rank in 2019 list | Fish | Reported figure |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Platinum Arowana | $400,000 |
| 2 | Freshwater Polka Dot Stingray | $100,000 |
| 3 | Peppermint Angelfish | $30,000 |
| 4 | Bladefin Basslet | $10,000 |
| 5 | Golden Basslet | $8,000 |
| 6 | Neptune Grouper | $6,000 |
| 7 | Australian Flathead Perch | $5,000 |
| 8 | Wrought Iron Butterfly Fish | $2,700 |
| 9 | Clarion Angelfish | $2,500 |
| 10 | Candy Basslet | $1,000 |
All amounts are the figures in the 2019 article’s table; it does not provide enough market detail to compare them as like-for-like transactions. International Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Studies, 2019.
Why these figures are not a current price guide
A price has meaning only alongside its market and unit. A single fish and a pair are not equivalent, and prices can differ with location, currency, size, variety and breeding status. The 2019 list does not specify enough of those details to show what a particular fish would cost in a particular place today.
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- PERFECT FOR BEGINNERS AND SEASONED AQUATIC HOBBYISTS: User-friendly setup designed for quick aquarium assembly and maintenance.
- COMPLETE STARTER KIT: Includes a 10-gallon glass rectangle aquarium, low profile hood with cool white LED lighting and feeding door, SmartClean filtration, EcoRenew cartridge, preset heater 50W, thermometer, fish net, premium fish food and a water conditioner.
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A 2022 study of ornamental aquarium-organism trade in Bangladesh illustrates the difference: its top-priced fish table reports local ranges in Bangladeshi taka (BDT) per pair, and says price depends on variety, size and breeding status. Its numbers describe that study’s regional context; they should not be converted into a global ranking.
| Fish in Bangladesh study | Reported local range | Unit and context |
|---|---|---|
| Golden or Asian Arowana | BDT 20,000–80,000 | Per pair; Bangladesh study |
| Black Arowana | BDT 18,000–45,000 | Per pair; Bangladesh study |
| Ocellate River Stingray | BDT 15,000–25,000 | Per pair; Bangladesh study |
| Silver Arowana | BDT 7,000–18,000 | Per pair; Bangladesh study |
| Emperor Angelfish | BDT 7,000–15,000 | Per pair; Bangladesh study |
These are reported study ranges, not current offers. Ornamental aquarium organisms trade in Bangladesh, 2022.
Rank #2
- 【Realistic and Vibrant】: Tokenkuko artificial tropical fish aquarium features interesting images of tropical fish, and dynamic images create the illusion of water and tropical fish in motion. It can create a realistic, peaceful, and soothing atmosphere anywhere in the home.
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What makes Asian arowana a special case?
Asian arowana (Scleropages formosus) is a high-value collector fish, but its desirability is tied to harvest, trade and conservation concerns. Australian Museum research discusses these issues in Cambodia, while National Geographic has also described the species in the context of the high-value collector market.
A price or reputation does not establish that a particular fish or transaction is legal. The sources cited here do not set out current ownership or import rules for every jurisdiction. Anyone considering an Asian arowana should check the applicable local regulations and establish the fish’s provenance before proceeding. Australian Museum, 2008; National Geographic, approximately 2016.
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- Bright Cardinal Tetra Live Fish: Add vibrant blue and red color to your freshwater aquarium with Cardinal Tetras, a classic tropical schooling fish loved for planted and community tanks
- Peaceful Community Aquarium Fish: Cardinal Tetras are calm, active swimmers that pair well with other small peaceful species in properly maintained freshwater aquariums
- Compatible with Community Tanks: Suitable for peaceful freshwater setups with other small, non-aggressive fish such as rasboras, small tetras, corydoras, and other gentle tank mates
- Enhances Planted Aquariums: Cardinal Tetras stand out beautifully against green plants, driftwood, and dark substrate, making them a favorite for aquascaped tanks
- Arrival Care: Fish are carefully selected and packed for safe delivery. Acclimate slowly upon arrival and place into a stable, cycled freshwater aquarium
How big is the aquarium fish trade?
WWF attributes an estimate of 5,300 aquarium fish species traded annually across 125 countries, with estimated retail value of US$15–30 billion, to Evers, Pinnegar and Taylor (2019). It also cites an older estimate from Olivier (2001) that approximately 10% of freshwater aquarium specimens are harvested directly from wild populations. These broad trade estimates are not measurements of the ten fish in the 2019 ranking. WWF, “Mekong Forgotten Fishes: Prized Pets Around the World,” 2023.
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- Lightahead Artificial Tropical Fish Aquarium is a fascinating alternative to a regular aquarium. A moving picture creates the illusion of water and tropical fish in motion. Multi Colored Artificial Fish. A virtual Ocean in Motion> There may be a little sound of the motor while operating .However it will be minimum. Adapter included
- Realistic Tranquil, peaceful, soothing beautiful deep-sea environment for home or office.A great stress-buster.Ideal for your desktop, living room and practically any other room in your house. Great gift for anyone who loves sea life or simply wants to make a unique design statement. Very easy to install. No maintenance required. Approx 12 x 10 inches.It is 110V with USA Plug
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Rank #4
- Live Neon Tetra Freshwater Fish: Includes 10 live Neon Tetras plus 4 free, scientifically known as Paracheirodon innesi, a popular small tropical aquarium fish known for its bright blue and red coloration
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
