The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →There are about 37,000 recognized fish species. FishBase reported 36,761 species in its June 2026 statistics; the exact count is a dated snapshot, not a permanent total.
“Types of fish” can mean individual species or broad groups. The count answers the species question; a useful overview of the broad groups is jawless fishes, cartilaginous fishes, and bony fishes.
What does “type of fish” mean?
“Type of fish” is an everyday phrase, not one precise scientific category. Someone asking how many types there are may mean species, broad evolutionary groups, families such as catfish, or aquarium varieties. Here, the count refers to recognized species.
The three broad groups of living fish
| Broad group | What distinguishes it | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Jawless fishes | Lack hinged jaws | Hagfishes and lampreys |
| Cartilaginous fishes | Skeletons made primarily of cartilage | Sharks, rays, skates, and chimaeras |
| Bony fishes | Skeletons made primarily of bone | Most familiar freshwater and marine fishes |
These are useful broad groupings, not three equally species-rich or perfectly parallel taxonomic categories. “Fish” is a familiar umbrella term rather than one single formal class containing all fishes.
#1 Best Overall
- GLASS AQUARIUM: Rectangular glass aquarium makes an ideal home for your fish.
- ADD ON ACCESSORIES: Mix and match with your favorite Tetra filtration, lighting and water care products (sold separately).
- EASY CUSTOMIZATION: Use assorted Tetra accessories (sold separately) to make your aquarium your own.
- 29 GALLON TANK: Measures 30.19 inches wide by 12.5 inches deep by 18.5 inches high.
- TETRA BRAND: Dedicated to helping seasoned hobbyists and beginners alike enjoy a successful, lifelong aquatic experience.
Jawless fishes
Jawless fishes include hagfishes and lampreys. Lampreys have a round, sucker-like mouth; hagfishes are eel-shaped marine animals known for producing slime when disturbed.
Cartilaginous fishes
This group includes sharks, rays, skates, and chimaeras. Their skeletons are primarily cartilage rather than bone.
Bony fishes
Bony fishes include a very large diversity of lineages and account for most fish species. Familiar examples include minnows, catfish, salmon, tuna, cichlids, gobies, and flatfishes. Ray-finned fishes make up most of this diversity; lobe-finned fishes include lungfishes and coelacanths.
How many fish species does FishBase report?
| FishBase report | Species | Other displayed figures |
|---|---|---|
| February 2026 statistics | 36,535 | 5,274 genera, 626 families, 84 orders, and 10 classes |
| June 2026 statistics | 36,761 | 5,276 genera and 629 families |
These dated statistics are from FishBase, a global information system on finfishes. The June 2026 figure is a sensible basis for the rounded answer “about 37,000.” FishBase explains that databases can differ in their coverage, update schedules, and taxonomic treatment; counts of available names should not be confused with counts of currently accepted species.
Rank #2
- Compact: Dimension: 7.9"x5.9"x5.9"; 1 Gallon tank; ideal for small spaces, aquarium beginners caring for a single betta, a few shrimp, snails, or a tiny goldfish. Also works as a temporary hospital tank, quarantine tank, or desktop decor (After deducting the filter part, the actual usable volume is approximately 0.8 gal and it will further decrease after adding substrate)
- Customizable Lighting: features a 3-color LED hood with 10 adjustable brightness levels to showcase your fish and tank décor
- Self-Cleaning Filtration: Hidden filter keeps tank clean for easier maintenance. Note: Clean filter sponge and pump regularly to avoid clogging; regular water changes are required — this small tank does not support zero-maintenance use
- Thoughtful Design: its top feeding hole allows for easy feeding without removing the lid; four silicone feet for stability and quiet operation
- Complete Starter Kit: 1x 1 gallon Fish Tank, 1x Filter Sponge, 1x Adjustable Water Pump, 1x LED Hood (Note: The light requires a power transformer (not included) for use. Compatible transformers include 5V 0.5A, 5V 1A, 5V 1.5A, and 5V 2A)
Why does the fish species count change?
Species totals change as researchers describe species and revise classification. A fish once treated as one widespread species may be split into several, while names once thought to represent different species may be treated as synonyms. A change in classification can also move a fish into another group without changing the species total.
FishBase’s February 2026 and June 2026 statistics show why it is useful to name the database and date when giving a precise count. “About 37,000 recognized fish species” is more reliable as a general answer than presenting one snapshot as permanent.
Further reading on fish classification
For a specialist discussion of fish classification and relationships among groups, Fishes of the World, Fifth Edition by Joseph S. Nelson, Terry C. Grande, and Mark V. H. Wilson is a taxonomy reference. It is not a current database for counting recognized species.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.FAQ
How many fish species are there in the world?
There are about 37,000 recognized fish species. FishBase reported 36,761 in its June 2026 statistics.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #3
- HIGH-QUALITY GLASS CONSTRUCTION for strength and clarity
- SUITABLE FOR FRESHWATER AND MARINE APPLICATIONS
- REINFORCED CENTER-BRACED FRAMES on larger sizes to prevent glass bowing
- CLEAN SILICONE EDGES and SLEEK BLACK TRIM for a polished, watertight finish
- AVAILABLE IN MULTIPLE SIZES. Choose from 20-gallon High, 20-gallon Long, 29 gallon tanks
What are the three broad types of fish?
A useful broad overview distinguishes jawless fishes, cartilaginous fishes, and bony fishes. These groups differ in features such as jaws and the material that makes up the skeleton.
Which broad group includes the most fish species?
Bony fishes include most living fish diversity and many familiar species, such as minnows, catfish, salmon, tuna, and cichlids.
Is the number of fish species fixed?
No. Database totals change as species are described and researchers revise names and classification. FishBase’s reported totals also depend on the date of the statistics.
Does “fish species” mean the same as “fish names”?
No. A database may record names that are not currently accepted species, including names treated as synonyms. Check whether a source is counting accepted species or names.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Quick Recap
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.
