170 Black Fish Names You’ll Actually Want To Use

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Naming a black fish isn’t as simple as it looks. Do you go mysterious, cute, or a little bit punny?

Black fish are the tuxedos of the aquarium world — elegant, dramatic, and just a little extra. Some channel their inner Batman, others embrace their dark side with Kylo Ren energy, and a few just float around like living ink blots.

Scroll through and find the perfect name for your little shadow swimmer.

Top 10 Fan-Favorite Black Fish Names (Start Here!)

If you just brought home your new black beauty and need a name right now, start here. These are the crowd-pleasers that fish owners can’t stop using for their sleek little swimmers.

Each one fits the dark, dramatic vibe of black fish, whether yours lurks like a mini sea monster or glides around like it’s in slow-motion cinematic mode.

1. Phantom: Mysterious and cool without trying too hard. Perfect for fish that disappear into the background plants like they’re pulling off an underwater magic trick.
2. Midnight: The classic. Works well for solid black fish or those with a deep blue shimmer that evokes the night sky.
3. Storm: For fish with energy to spare — or one that stirs up chaos in the tank like it’s controlling the weather.
4. Batman: A top pick for obvious reasons. Moody, brave, and probably convinced it owns the tank.
5. Shadow: Simple but timeless. Fits fish that trail behind others or vanish the second you grab your phone to take a photo.
6. Ebony: Elegant and smooth, like a name your fish would choose if it had taste in furniture.
7. Diablo: For that mischievous little troublemaker who won’t stop rearranging the gravel.
8. Smokey: Soft, subtle, and a little mysterious—ideal for fish with gray undertones or flowing fins.
9. Knight: Strong, noble, and dramatic. A solid choice for fish who swim like they’re on a mission.
10. Onyx – elegant and popular, gives gemstone vibes like “Ebony.”

Quick Takeaway: If you want a name that sounds classic but not cliche, Phantom and Midnight top the list. Want personality? Diablo or Storm bring the drama.

Sweet, Strong, Or Spooky? 10 Girl Names For Every Kind Of Black Fish

Your fish’s color might be striking, but her personality is what sets her apart. Whether she’s bold and curious or quiet and observant, these names capture every type of aquatic energy.

1. Raven: A classic choice for any sleek, standout fish.
2. Luna: For one that glows softly under the tank light, like reflected moonlight.
3. Viola: Graceful and understated, perfect for fish with flowing fins.
4. Morticia: Ideal for a dramatic presence that commands attention.
5. Dahlia: Inspired by the deep, inky flower—refined and a little mysterious.
6. Persephone: Regal and strong, for the fish who rules her corner of the tank.
7. Aurora: A balanced mix of light and dark—great for multi-toned fish.
8. Elvira: Confident, distinctive, and impossible to miss.
9. Ivy: Simple, fresh, and timeless.
10. Scarlett: For fish with red accents or a little extra spark.

Quick Tip: Pick a name that matches your fish’s behavior, not just her color. If she’s curious and bold, Elvira is a good fit. If she’s calm and smooth, Luna or Viola might be the better match.

Cool & Confident: 10 Boy Names For Black Fish

If your fish swims like he owns the tank, these names fit the mood. From smooth and sophisticated to sharp and unexpected, each one has that quiet confidence dark-colored fish seem to carry.

1. Jet: Sleek, strong, and effortlessly cool.
2. Zorro: For the fast mover who’s always one step ahead.
3. Dante: A dramatic choice for fish with flair.
4. Cosmo: Stylish and modern, great for any active swimmer.
5. Kuro: Means “black” in Japanese—a clean, minimalist option.
6. Knight: Perfect for a bold fish with a steady presence.
7. Maverick: For the one who refuses to follow the group.
8. Ace: Confident, classic, and a little competitive.
9. Rasputin: A darkly charming name for the unpredictable type.
10. Felix: Latin for “lucky,” ideal for fish that seem to thrive no matter what.

Quick Takeaway: Names like Jet and Knight project strength and style, while Cosmo and Felix bring a lighter, more playful tone. Pick what fits your fish’s vibe, not just his color.

10 Unisex Black Fish Names That Just Fit

These all-around picks sound great on any black fish, from a calm betta to a fast-swimming molly.

1. Slate: Smooth, simple, and modern.
2. Bandit: For the fish who loves to dart and hide.
3. Ash: Short and moody, perfect for minimalists.
4. Neptune: Majestic and aquatic—hard to go wrong here.
5. Cocoa: Sweet but not too soft.
6. Galaxy: For fish that shimmer with subtle highlights.
7. Panda: Cute and high-contrast, perfect for black-and-white patterns.
8. Nova: A nod to stars and cosmic energy.
9. Echo: Cool and rhythmic, great for schools that move together.
10. Salem: Classic, mysterious, and fitting for nearly any fish.

Quick Takeaway: Unisex names work best when they match how your fish moves or behaves. Ash and Slate suit quiet types, while Galaxy or Bandit fit those who stand out.

10 Funny Black Fish Names That’ll Make You Smile

Fish don’t have a sense of humor, but that doesn’t mean you can’t. These clever names make your tank feel a little more entertaining every time you feed your crew.

1. Darth Baiter: Because “Luke, I am your aquarist” never gets old.
2. Swim Shady: For the fish that lurks in the shadows.
3. James Pond: A classic. Suits any fish that looks suspiciously suave.
4. Gill Nye: The science fish.
5. Caviar: A dark little irony that works every time.
6. Fin Diesel: For the strong, silent type with serious speed.
7. Carrot: Because it’s definitely not one.
8. Puck: Short, snappy, and full of attitude.
9. Espresso: Energized, dark, and totally overcaffeinated.
10. Bean: A cute name that makes people do a double-take.

Quick Takeaway: Funny names make great conversation starters and break up the usual list of “Shadow” and “Midnight.” Pick one that’ll make you grin every time you see it swim by.

Black Fish Names By Theme

Sometimes the best way to name your fish is by thinking about what kind of story it tells. Whether it reminds you of your favorite movie, a mythic figure, or just your morning coffee, these themes make it easy to find something that fits.

10 Pop Culture & Mythology Black Fish Names

For fish with a little main-character energy.

1. Vader: A strong pick for Star Wars fans who love a dramatic entrance.
2. Nyx: Greek goddess of night, elegant and powerful.
3. Salem: Witchy, mysterious, and unforgettable.
4. Arwen: Graceful and ethereal, perfect for long-finned fish.
5. Draco: For a fish with a bold, confident presence.
6. Morgana: Enchanting and timeless.
7. Bellatrix: Another nod to the dark side of the wizarding world.
8. Zephyr: Light, quick, and full of movement.
9. Hades: Strong, stoic, and commanding.
10. Neo: Short, modern, and effortlessly cool.

10 Nature-Inspired Black Fish Names

Rooted in simplicity and movement—great for tanks with natural setups.

1. Ember: For a fish with red or copper undertones.
2. Basalt: Earthy and strong, like volcanic rock.
3. Rain: Gentle and calming to watch.
4. Flint: Sharp and precise in its movements.
5. Reef: Ideal for social fish that love structure.
6. Shadowleaf: A creative choice for planted tanks.
7. Pine: Subtle and nature-driven.
8. Delta: For graceful swimmers that navigate like rivers.
9. Tide: Calm but powerful.
10. Cinder: Perfect for dark fish with a spark of silver or gray.

10 Food & Drink Black Fish Names

Whimsical, funny, and just the right amount of indulgent.

1. Oreo: Classic black-and-white perfection.
2. Pepper: For spotted fish with a bit of spice.
3. Cola: Bubbly and sweet.
4. Bourbon: Smooth, strong, and a little sophisticated.
5. Java: For caffeine lovers who appreciate a simple brew.
6. Nutella: Sweet and rich—ideal for dark, glossy scales.
7. Brownie: Cozy and nostalgic.
8. Licorice: A quirky, bold pick.
9. Cocoa Puff: For tiny round fish that look like snacks.
10. Stout: A hearty, funny name for a chunky swimmer.

10 Luxury & Gemstone Black Fish Names

Elegant names for fish that look like they belong in a designer display.

1. Zircon: Shiny and unique, great for iridescent species.
2. Sable: Dark, soft, and sophisticated.
3. Quartz: Clean, sharp, and modern.
4. Ambergris: Rare and luxurious, perfect for a standout fish.
5. Mercury: Sleek and reflective for metallic scales.
6. Topaz: For fish with subtle gold flecks.
7. Cashmere: Soft-sounding and stylish.
8. Chrome: Futuristic and cool.
9. Opal: For fish that shimmer with hidden colors.
10. Velour: Rich and plush, perfect for slow-moving fish.

Quick Takeaway: Picking a theme helps you tell a little story about your fish. Pop Culture gives attitude, Nature brings calm energy, Food & Drink adds humor, and Luxury brings sophistication.

Black Fish Names By Appearance (Patterns, Fins, & Features)

Some fish earn their names from how they move or look under the light. Whether yours has spots, stripes, shimmer, or flowing fins, these names highlight what makes your black fish stand out.

10 Spotted Or Speckled Black Fish Names

For fish with freckles, dots, or marbled patterns.

1. Dottie: Simple and self-explanatory.
2. Pixel: Great for small, patterned species.
3. Freckle: A cute nod to a lightly speckled look.
4. Marble: For fish with intricate, blended markings.
5. Inkwell: Works for fish that look like someone splashed them with paint.
6. Mottle: Short and unexpected, yet fitting.
7. Polka: A playful choice for spotted guppies or mollies.
8. Smudge: For uneven or patchy black markings.
9. Chip: Ideal for small, tough little fish.
10. Domino: A classic for black-and-white contrasts.

10 Striped Or Patterned Black Fish Names

Perfect for zebra-style markings, bold lines, or unique color bands.

1. Barcode: For fish with perfectly spaced stripes.
2. Tux: Short for tuxedo—formal and timeless.
3. Bandit: For masked or striped patterns that look sneaky.
4. Racer: Suits quick swimmers with sleek stripes.
5. Streak: Simple, clean, and easy to remember.
6. Checkers: For fish with geometric or balanced markings.
7. Sketch: For fish that look hand-drawn.
8. Sash: A classy nod to subtle line patterns.
9. Pinstripe: Great for slender fish with thin markings.
10. Zin: Short, punchy, and perfect for zebra danios.

10 Flowing Or Fancy Finned Black Fish Names

For bettas, angelfish, or any fish that drifts like silk underwater.

1. Ripple: Calm and fluid, perfect for gentle movement.
2. Breeze: A soft, relaxed choice.
3. Satin: Smooth and graceful, ideal for long fins.
4. Drift: Minimalist but visually fitting.
5. Whisper: For slow-moving, quiet fish.
6. Plume: Evokes delicate, feathery motion.
7. Cascade: For flowing fins that look like tiny waterfalls.
8. Aero: Short, airy, and modern.
9. Muse: For fish that feel effortlessly artistic.
10. Twirl: Playful, perfect for those who can’t sit still.

10 Metallic Or Iridescent Black Fish Names

For fish with sheen, shimmer, or changing undertones under the light.

1. Steel: Strong and modern.
2. Graphene: Futuristic and tech-inspired.
3. Alloy: For mixed hues and sleek shine.
4. Luster: A refined, polished choice.
5. Glimmer: Perfect for a soft, shifting glow.
6. Nova: For iridescent movement that catches the light.
7. Quartzite: Strong and smooth, with subtle reflection.
8. Mercury: Fluid and fast.
9. Chrome: Cool, minimalist, and reflective.
10. Nebula: For fish that shimmer like a galaxy.

Quick Takeaway: You don’t need to overthink it; sometimes your fish’s markings or movement pick the name for you. If it’s spotted, striped, flowing, or metallic, lean into the details that make it one of a kind.

Unexpected & Original: 20 Black Fish Names You Won’t Hear Twice

If you want your fish to stand out from every Shadow and Midnight in the tank world, this list is for you. These names are creative, distinctive, and almost guaranteed to be one of a kind at your local pet store.

1. Vanta: Inspired by Vantablack, one of the darkest substances known.
2. Obscura: Latin-inspired and artsy, perfect for deep hues.
3. Nocturne: Musical and moody, ideal for a calm, elegant fish.
4. Carbon: Minimalist and modern, good for sleek swimmers.
5. Tannin: For fish that thrive in rich, dark water setups.
6. Indra: A nod to the storm god, powerful yet balanced.
7. Velar: Smooth-sounding and futuristic.
8. Basen: Short and cool, evokes depth and stillness.
9. Eclipse: Simple, bold, and tied to cosmic contrast.
10. Onwa: Derived from an Igbo word meaning “moon,” subtle and poetic.
11. Ceniza: Spanish for “ash,” but softer and more melodic.
12. Vireo: A rare bird name that feels sleek and aquatic.
13. Myrrh: Earthy and mysterious, perfect for exotic species.
14. Driftmark: A subtle nod for fantasy fans, tied to sea imagery.
15. Obsidia: Feminine variant of Obsidian, less literal and more lyrical.
16. Rook: Smart, dark, and sharp like the chess piece.
17. Kuroi: Japanese for “black,” concise and clean.
18. Tempest: For fish that seem small but move with force.
19. Cloak: Understated and mysterious.
20. Gravel: Offbeat and textural, great for bottom dwellers.

Quick Takeaway: These names work because they sound fresh. Skip overused color cues and go for texture, tone, or movement instead; your fish deserves something more original.

Small But Mighty: 20 Cute Names For Little Black Fish

Small fish bring big personality. Whether yours zips around the tank or hovers calmly near the glass, these names are simple, lighthearted, and easy to love.

1. Bubba: A classic, friendly name for a fish that feels like part of the family.
2. Pebble: Tiny, round, and unexpectedly charming.
3. Bitty: Perfect for fish so small you almost miss them.
4. Mochi: Sweet, soft, and fun to say.
5. Speck: For fish with tiny spots or faint markings.
6. Olive: A cute pick with a smooth, natural sound.
7. Tad: Works for small fish or young fry.
8. Pip: Short and punchy for fast swimmers.
9. Dot: Minimalist and adorable.
10. Noodle: A funny fit for long, wiggly fish.
11. Biscuit: Soft, cozy, and friendly.
12. Blip: A quick flash of movement in fish form.
13. Marble: Great for tiny fish with mixed tones.
14. Cupcake: Playful and slightly ridiculous, which makes it memorable.
15. Peb: A modern twist on Pebble, simple and sleek.
16. Bug: Ideal for fish that dart around nonstop.
17. Crisp: Clean and bright, for those that stand out in a crowd.
18. Tofu: Whimsical and unexpected.
19. Chip: A small but mighty pick.
20. Sprout: For fish with potential to grow into something amazing.

Quick Takeaway: Short names suit small fish best. Choose something quick to say and fun to repeat. You’ll be surprised how fast it sticks.

How To Choose The Right Name

With so many ideas to choose from, narrowing it down can feel like the hardest part.

1. Match the energy. Is your fish bold, shy, or somewhere in between? A name that mirrors its behavior will always feel right.
2. Keep it short. One or two syllables are easiest to remember and say.
3. Avoid duplicates. If you have several fish, ensure their names are distinct enough to distinguish them.
4. Go with what makes you smile. You’ll be saying it often, so pick something that feels good every time.
5. Trust your first instinct. The name you think of right away is usually the one that sticks.

Quick Takeaway: The best names capture a fish’s personality, not just their appearance. Watch your fish for a day or two — you’ll know when the right name surfaces.