Giving your fish a name can definitely help your aquatic friend develop more personality and charm! Also, choosing a name for your fish promises to be fun, regardless of whether you intend to keep them as pets, cook them for a tasty meal, or just enjoy their beauty in the tank.
Did you know some names can accurately capture the distinct personalities and traits of your aquatic companions? Yup! You just need a little imagination and inspiration.
So, we’ve put together a helpful guide with a list of creative potential names for your fish to assist you. Now, let’s get started!
Check out these other perfectly curated fish names for your aquatic friend:
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Edible Fish Names for Girls
When naming your female fish, you might want a name that’s as elegant and pretty as they are. Consider choosing a name that captures their character and charm. Here’s a list of 50 female edible fish names, along with their meanings, to inspire you:
1. Salmonella – A playful twist on the fish Salmon.
2. Dory – After the beloved blue tang from “Finding Nemo.”
3. Caviara – A chic variation of Caviar.
4. Sushi – A cute name for a small, vibrant fish.
5. Marina – Meaning “of the sea.”
6. Tetra – Inspired by the small, colorful Tetra fish.
7. Nori – Japanese for seaweed, often used in sushi.
8. Anchovy – A tiny but mighty fish.
9. Betta – After the beautiful Betta fish.
10. Coral – Perfect for a fish with a colorful personality.
11. Goldie – A classic name for a goldfish.
12. Pearl – Elegant and precious.
13. Tuna – For a strong, dominant female fish.
14. Shrimpy – Cute and small.
15. Molly – A common aquarium fish.
16. Guppy – After the small, playful Guppy.
17. Angel – Inspired by the Angelfish.
18. Flounder – After the fish in “The Little Mermaid”
19. Minnow – For a small, agile fish.
20. Mermaid – For a fish with a magical presence.
21. Nemo – After the famous clownfish.
22. Penny – Cute and simple.
23. Rainbow – For a colorful fish.
24. Snapper – For a fish with attitude.
25. Tilapia – A common edible fish.
26. Wanda – A playful take on ‘wander.’
27. Zebra – For a striped fish.
28. Bubbles – Perfect for a playful fish.
29. Clammy – For a calm, peaceful fish.
30. Dolphin – For a sleek, graceful fish.
31. Eelena – A twist on Eel.
32. Finley – Meaning ‘fair-haired hero.’
33. Gilliana – After ‘gills.’
34. Haddock – A type of edible fish.
35. Iris – Meaning ‘rainbow.’
36. Jelly – After the jellyfish.
37. Koi – A type of ornamental fish.
38. Lobstina – A fun name for a red or pink fish.
39. Mackerella – A twist on Mackerel.
40. Neptune – After the Roman god of the sea.
41. Octavia – Inspired by octopus.
42. Perchance – A play on Perch.
43. Queen – For a dominant, regal fish.
44. Reef – After the coral reef.
45. Starfish – For a standout fish in your tank.
46. Trouty – A playful take on Trout.
47. Ursula – After the sea witch in “The Little Mermaid”.
48. Venus – After the goddess of love and beauty.
49. Whalee – For a large, majestic fish.
50. Xenia – Meaning ‘hospitality.’
Edible Fish Names for Boys
Choosing a name for your male fish can be a fun way to reflect their personality. Before selecting, spend some time observing their characteristics and behavior. Here are 50 edible fish names for boys, along with their meanings:
1. Bass – A strong, masculine name.
2. Codex – A twist on Cod.
3. Drummer – After Drum fish.
4. Fluke – For a lucky fish.
5. Grouper – For a sociable, group-loving fish.
6. Halibut – A unique name for a unique fish.
7. Ikan – Malay for fish.
8. Jaws – For a fish with a big personality.
9. Kingfish – For a regal, dominant fish.
10. Lemon – For a bright, zesty fish.
11. Mako- After the Mako shark.
12. Nile – After the Nile River.
13. Oscar – A popular name for aquarium fish.
14. Pike – For a sleek, fast-moving fish.
15. Quincy – A classy, sophisticated name.
16. Ray – After the stingray.
17. Sharky – For a daring, adventurous fish.
18. Trident – After the weapon of Poseidon.
19. Urchin – For a spiky, spirited fish.
20. Vortex – For a fish with a dynamic presence.
21. Whaler – For a large, strong fish.
22. Xander – Meaning ‘defender.’
23. Yellowfin – For a fish with yellow fins
24. Zebulon – A unique, exotic name.
25. Albacore – A type of tuna.
26. Bluefin – For a blue-hued fish.
27. Chippy – Cute and friendly.
28. Dolph – Short for Dolphin.
29. Eddy – For a fish that loves to swim in circles.
30. Fin – An obvious but adorable choice.
31. Gill – After the fish’s gills.
32. Herring – A common edible fish.
33. Igloo – For a cool, calm fish.
34. Jack – A strong, no-nonsense name.
35. Krill – For a small but mighty fish.
36. Lobster – For a red or pink male fish.
37. Mullet – For a fish with a unique style.
38. Nemo – After the famous clownfish.
39. Octo – Short for Octopus.
40. Prawn – A cute name for a small fish.
41. Quiver – For a fast, agile fish.
42. Razor – For a sharp, sleek fish.
43. Sardine – A small but popular fish.
44. Triton – After the Greek god of the sea.
45. Ulysses – For an adventurous fish.
46. Viking – For a strong, fearless fish.
47. Wally – Short for Walleye.
48. Xiphias – After the swordfish.
49. Yuri – Meaning ‘farmer’ in Russian.
50. Zorro – For a mysterious, bold fish.
Popular Edible Fish Names
These names have captured the hearts of fish owners around the world. These names stick out as classic favorites when it comes to aquatic companions. Here are 20 of the most popular and fascinating edible fish names:
1. Nemo – A timeless name for a clownfish.
2. Dory – A popular name after the “Finding Nemo” character.
3. Goldie – A classic name for goldfish.
4. Bubbles – Perfect for a playful fish.
5. Sushi – A trendy name for a small fish.
6. Whalee – A fun name for a large fish.
7. Marlin – After the fish in “Finding Nemo.”
8. Coral – For a colorful, vibrant fish.
9. Sharky – For a daring, adventurous fish.
10. Flounder – A name full of character.
11. Gill – Simple and straightforward.
12. Betta – After the beautiful Betta fish.
13. Moby – After the famous whale in literature.
14. Octavia – For a fish with a dynamic personality.
15. Pike – For a sleek, fast fish.
16. Salmonella – A whimsical take on Salmon.
17. Tuna – A strong, bold name.
18. Angel – Perfect for a graceful fish.
19. Koi – For an ornamental, elegant fish.
20. Neptune – After the Roman god of the sea.
Funny Edible Fish Names
Sometimes, you need a little humor when naming your fish. Adding whimsical flair to your fish’s name will cheer up your aquarium and make it fun and playful. Here are 20 funny edible fish names for a good laugh:
1. Fish and Chips – A classic duo.
2. Bait – For the fish always chasing food.
3. Chum – A funny name for a friendly fish.
4. Squidward – After the character from SpongeBob SquarePants.
5. Fish Stick – For a long, thin fish.
6. McFish – A fast-food-inspired name.
7. Gill-bert – A play on Gilbert.
8. Fin Diesel – For a fast and furious fish.
9. Sashimi – For a delicate, elegant fish.
10. Tarter – A saucy name.
11. Bob – Simple and humorous.
12. Captain Hook – For a fish with attitude.
13. Clammy – For a calm, peaceful fish.
14. Flipper – A playful, classic name.
15. Krabby – For a fish with a bit of an attitude.
16. Nori – A sushi-inspired name.
17. Poseidon – For a fish that rules the tank.
18. Seabiscuit – After the famous racehorse.
19. Squirt – For a small, spry fish.
20. Tetra – A simple yet catchy name.
Unique Edible Fish Names
Looking for something different? With these catchy names, your fish will stick out from the sea of aquariums and demonstrate their uniqueness and charm. Here are 20 unique edible fish names to set your pet apart:
1. Aquamarine – For a fish with a stunning blue color.
2. Barracuda – A unique name for a fierce fish.
3. Caspian – After the Caspian Sea.
4. Dolphina – A feminine twist on Dolphin.
5. Electra – For a fish that shines brightly.
6. Fang – For a fish with a bold personality.
7. Glacier – For a cool, majestic fish.
8. Harbor – A peaceful, serene name.
9. Ivory – For a fish with a pale, elegant hue.
10. Jade – After the precious stone.
11. Kraken – For a mysterious, powerful fish.
12. Luna – Meaning ‘moon’.
13. Mystic – For a fish with an enigmatic presence.
14. Nebula – For a fish with a cosmic, starry color.
15. Orca – For a black and white fish.
16. Pearl – A classic, elegant name.
17. Quasar – For a fish that’s out of this world.
18. Riptide – For a strong, dynamic fish.
19. Siren – After the mythical sea creatures.
20. Tsunami – For a powerful, commanding fish.
Fictional Edible Fish Names
For those inspired by literature, film, and mythology, these imaginative names derived from well-loved personalities and tales may take your fish on magical and adventurous trips. Here are 20 fictional edible fish names for your aquatic pets:
1. Ariel – After the mermaid princess.
2. Atlantis – A mythical undersea city.
3. Calypso – After the sea nymph.
4. Davy Jones – After the legendary sea devil.
5. Elmo – After the famous red fish from Sesame Street.
6. Finneas – A twist on a fictional character’s name.
7. Glug – A playful, made-up name.
8. Hydra – After the mythical sea monster.
9. Krakatoa – For a fish with a fiery personality.
10. Leviathan – After the biblical sea creature.
11. Moby Dick – After the famous whale in literature.
12. Narnia – For a fish with a magical presence.
13. Odyssey – After the epic journey.
14. Pisces – After the zodiac sign.
15. Quest – For a fish on an adventure.
16. Ragnarok – After the Norse mythology end of the world.
17. Sherlock – For a smart, observant fish.
18. Triton – After the Greek god of the sea.
19. Utopia – For a fish in a perfect world.
20. Vulcan – After the Roman god of fire.
Famous Edible Fish Names
Your underwater buddies might gain a little celebrity from these memorable names, which honor fish that have captivated people’s attention for generations. Here are 20 famous edible fish names inspired by renowned fish from various media and folklore:
1. Jaws – After the famous movie Shark.
2. Willy – After the orca in “Free Willy.”
3. Flipper – After the famous dolphin.
4. Bruce – The shark from “Finding Nemo.”
5. Moby – After Moby Dick.
6. Lenny – The vegetarian shark from “Shark Tale.”
7. Free – Inspired by “Free Willy”.
8. Klaus – The fish from “American Dad!”.
9. Marvin – After the paranoid android, for a quirky fish.
10. Monstro – The whale from Pinocchio.
11. Nessie – After the Loch Ness Monster.
12. Orca – A classic name for a majestic fish.
13. Pip – A charming, simple name.
14. Quint – After the shark hunter in “Jaws.”
15. Rainbow – After Rainbow Fish in the children’s book.
16. Shamu – The famous orca from SeaWorld.
17. Tadpole – For a small, young fish.
18. Ursula – After the sea witch in “The Little Mermaid.”
19. Violet – For a fish with a vibrant hue.
20. Wanda – After “A Fish Called Wanda”.
Creative Edible Fish Names
To wrap up our list, here are 20 creative edible fish names that blend fun, flair, and originality; every time you give them a call, these creative names will surely light up your aquarium and make you grin:
1. Aqua – A simple yet striking name.
2. Blu – For a fish with a stunning blue color.
3. Crest – For a fish that’s always at the top.
4. Dune – For a fish that loves the sandy bottom.
5. Echo – For a fish that makes a statement.
6. Fjord – After the deep, narrow sea inlets.
7. Gale – For a fish as strong as the wind.
8. Halo – For a fish that shines brightly.
9. Ivy – For a fish as graceful as the plant.
10. Jet – For a fast-moving, sleek fish.
11. Kelp – For a fish that loves to hide in plants.
12. Lagoon – For a peaceful, serene fish.
13. Mist – For a mysterious, ethereal fish.
14. Nova – For a fish that’s a star.
15. Opal – For a fish with a colorful, iridescent hue.
16. Pebble – For a small, adorable fish.
17. Quill – For a fish with a sharp personality.
18. Reed – For a fish that’s tall and slender.
19. Surge – For a dynamic, energetic fish.
20. Tide – For a fish that moves with the rhythm of the sea.
We hope this guide inspires you to find the perfect name for your aquatic companion. Happy fish naming!
How To Name Your Fish
Choosing the perfect name for your blue companion from the aquatic world can be fun and daunting. If you’re seeking inspiration, consider names derived from their physical attributes, such as Gill or Finn, reflecting parts of fish anatomy.
Each fish has a unique personality and story, and you can find a name that genuinely matches your fish by taking the time to get to know it. Look to the specific species of your fish for a name that speaks to its unique identity.
Expand your horizons by considering your fish’s color, patterns, and unique characteristics. Names that highlight these aspects can add a personal touch and make your fish’s name memorable.
Navigating the Sea of Names
Embarking on the journey of pet ownership brings joy and the exciting challenge of naming. You may choose the ideal name for your fish that captures their character and bonds them to everyone they encounter with a bit of imagination and effort. Here are some buoys to help you navigate through:
1. Simplicity is Key:
If you give your fish a simple name, you can call it more easily, and others will be able to pronounce and remember it more quickly. Opt for a name that flows off the tongue, preferably with one or two syllables. It should be memorable and easy for you to use comfortably.
2. Seek Far and Wide for Inspiration:
Finding a name that accurately conveys the uniqueness and charm of your fish can be done by looking through various inspiration sources. Your inspiration can come from anywhere – from baby name books to the unique personality traits of your fish.
Is your fish an eager eater, or does it have a quirky swimming pattern? Naming them after these traits can be both meaningful and fun.
3. Unique Stories Lead to Unique Names:
Has your fish’s arrival into your life been nothing short of a storybook tale? Consider names that reflect this extraordinary journey. Names inspired by favorite movies or books, such as Dora, meaning “God’s gift,” or the beloved Nemo, can add a touch of narrative to your fish’s identity.
Consider naming your fish after the individual adventure and personality it has acquired. Each fish has a backstory that adds to its uniqueness.
4. The Charm Factor:
Let the name reflect the humor and playfulness of your aquatic friend. However, don’t feel pressured to follow trends. A name with positive associations in literature or with a personal connection can be just as delightful. By selecting a name that speaks to you, you can establish a stronger connection with your fish and give them more meaning in their name.
5. The Name Trial:
Test out your favorite names to see how they sound when called out loud. By trying out several options out loud, you can see which names seem the most natural and fit your fish’s personality the best. Feedback from friends and family can be invaluable in gauging a name’s fit.
6. A Collective Brainstorm:
If you’re stuck in a naming whirlpool, turn to your social circle or dive into online communities and forums for a sea of ideas. Getting advice from others might provide new insights and inspire original naming concepts you wouldn’t have thought of on your own. Collaboration can spark the perfect name.
7. Revitalize Common Names:
Give a twist to a common name by adding a title or modifying it slightly to refresh its appeal. “Ms. Nemo” can offer a new take on a classic name. This distinctive spin can make your fish stand out and give it a different identity.
8. For the School of Fish:
When naming multiple fish, consider themes, pairings, or group names that reflect their collective identity. Doing this will help your aquarium’s group dynamic come together. Drawing inspiration from previous pets can also connect generations of your aquatic family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, some people keep edible fish as pets. Yes, these people also, like other pet owners, give their fish a name. Keeping that aside, here are other questions we thought you might be wondering about:
Can I rename my fish later?
Of course! Since fish don’t understand names like humans, you can give your fish a new name if it seems like a better fit or if your tastes change over time.
I want to eat my fish, but can I still name it?
Though the choice of name is entirely yours, consider whether naming your fish will fit with your goals for it—especially if you intend to eat it later.
What happens if I’m stuck on a fish name?
If you have trouble coming up with a name, don’t hesitate to ask friends, family, or even internet fishkeeping forums for suggestions.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, giving your fish a name is a chance to develop a closer bond with these exciting animals rather than just being a silly hobby.
You can increase your enjoyment of fishkeeping and make enduring memories by naming your fish after people or things that speak to you or your fish’s characteristics. It’s ultimately up to you to decide what name is best for your fish. Just follow your gut and enjoy the naming process.
Ian Sterling, founder of Fishlab.com, began his aquarium journey over 30 years ago, driven by a deep fascination for fish and their diverse personalities. His website, Fishlab.com, is dedicated to making fishkeeping accessible and enjoyable, offering beginner-friendly guidance, expert insights, and a community for aquarists to connect and share experiences.