Your pet fish may not exactly waddle about the house like furrier and outdoursier pets or make quite as much noise. Still, it has a unique personality and deserves a name just as much as a cat or a dog.
Perhaps you haven’t yet thought of a fitting name for your finned friend. Choosing the perfect name for a pet can be as challenging as it can be fun, after all. But choosing a name doesn’t have to be hard.
Your pet fish has many unique physical and personality traits that can inspire a good moniker; think swimming style, body color, fin shape, or even disposition. Let’s waste no further time and just go through some great suggestions.
Also see these other popular fish names:
Contents
Pet Fish Names for Girls
Most great pet fish names are genderless, so your little swimming friend’s gender won’t necessarily matter. However, suppose your fish is female; you may want to name it femininely. Here are 50 of the best female fish names, along with their meanings.
1. Ariel – Inspired by the mermaid princess.
2. Bella – Beautiful in Italian.
3. Coral – After the colorful marine structures.
4. Dory – From the famous blue fish in “Finding Nemo.”
5. Ella – Meaning ‘fairy maiden.’
6. Fiona – Meaning ‘fair’ or ‘white.’
7. Goldie – Perfect for a goldfish.
8. Harmony – Symbolizing peace and tranquility in your tank.
9. Iris – Named after the colorful flower or eye part, fitting for a vibrant fish.
10. Jewel – Ideal for a fish with sparkling scales.
11. Kiki – A playful and energetic name.
12. Luna – Meaning ‘moon’ for a fish with a serene presence.
13. Marina – Relating to the sea.
14. Nina – Meaning ‘little girl’ in Spanish.
15. Opal – After the precious gemstone.
16. Pearl – Perfect for a precious and elegant fish.
17. Queenie – For a fish with a regal demeanor.
18. Ruby – Ideal for a red or vibrant fish.
19. Star – For a fish that shines in your aquarium.
20. Tess – A charming and simple name.
21. Ursula – For fans of “The Little Mermaid.”
22. Violet – Perfect for a fish with purple hues.
23. Wanda – A playful take on ‘wand’ like a fish waving its fins.
24. Xena – For a strong and independent fish.
25. Yasmin – Meaning ‘jasmine flower’ for a delicate fish.
26. Zara – Meaning ‘princess’ in Arabic.
27. Amethyst – Named after the violet gemstone, perfect for a fish with purple or iridescent scales.
28. Blossom – For a fish that adds beauty to your aquarium like a blooming flower.
29. Celestia – Inspired by celestial bodies, ideal for a majestic or ethereal-looking fish.
30. Daisy – After the simple yet beautiful flower, suitable for a cheerful and bright fish.
31. Elara – A name of Greek origin, Elara is perfect for a fish with a mythical or elegant presence.
32. Freya – In Norse mythology, Freya is a goddess of love and beauty, fitting for a graceful fish.
33. Ginger – For a fish with a spicy personality or a reddish hue.
34. Hazel – Perfect for a fish with a warm or earthy tone.
35. Ivory – Ideal for a fish with pale, delicate scales.
36. Jasmine – After the fragrant flower, suitable for a delicate and beautiful fish.
37. Kiara – Meaning ‘light’ or ‘clear’ in Italian, great for a fish with a bright or luminous appearance.
38. Lily – A classic and elegant name, perfect for a serene and graceful fish.
39. Misty – For a mysterious or elusive fish.
40. Nova – Meaning ‘new,’ ideal for a recent addition to your aquarium.
41. Olive – A peaceful and understated name, suitable for a fish with a subtle beauty.
42. Poppy – A fun and lively name for an energetic fish.
43. Quincy – A unique and quirky name for a fish with personality.
44. Rosie – Perfect for a fish with a pink hue or a bubbly personality.
45. Sapphire – After the precious blue gem, ideal for a fish with striking blue scales.
46. Tara – Meaning ‘star’ in Sanskrit, suitable for a standout fish in your tank.
47. Umbra – For a fish with darker tones or a mysterious aura.
48. Venus – After the Roman goddess of love and beauty, fitting for an enchanting fish.
49. Willow – A gentle and fluid name, perfect for a gracefully swimming fish.
50. Zephyr – Meaning a gentle breeze, ideal for a fish with a smooth and effortless swimming style.
Pet Fish Names for Boys
If your pet fish is male, you should give it a masculine name, perhaps one that also reflects something you like about it. You may want a name that reflects strength, character, or even its unique patterns. Here are 50 of the best pet male fish names—-along with their meaning—that you can try.
- Titan – For a dominant or large fish.
- Ulysses – After the Greek hero, suitable for a fish with an adventurous spirit.
- Vortex – For a fish that’s always on the move.
- Winston – A strong, traditional name.
- Xander – Meaning ‘defender of the sea.’
- Yoshi – A fun, playful name.
- Zephyr – For a fish that glides smoothly like a gentle breeze.
- Atlas – For a fish that seems to carry the weight of the world.
- Bolt – Perfect for a fast-moving fish.
- Cyrus – Meaning ‘sun,’ for a bright, radiant fish.
- Draco – After the constellation, for a fish with star-like qualities.
- Eli – A short, strong name.
- Felix – Meaning ‘lucky,’ perfect for a cherished fish.
- Griffin – For a majestic and noble fish.
- Hank – A classic and sturdy name.
- Igor – For a fish with a distinct personality.
- Jett – Perfect for a speedy and agile fish.
- Kai – Meaning ‘sea’ in Hawaiian.
- Loki – For a mischievous or playful fish.
- Maverick – For a fish that doesn’t follow the crowd.
- Nyx – After the Greek goddess of night, suitable for a dark-colored fish.
- Orion – Named after the hunter constellation.
- Phoenix – For a fish with vibrant, fiery colors.
- Quest – For an adventurous and curious fish.
- Ragnar – A strong, commanding name.
- Saber – For a sharp and sleek fish.
- Thor – After the Norse god, fitting for a powerful fish.
- Vulcan – For a fish with a fiery spirit.
- Wyatt – Meaning ‘brave in war,’ suitable for a bold fish.
- Zane – Meaning ‘God’s gracious gift,’ perfect for a cherished pet fish.
- Ace – For a fish that’s number one in your tank.
- Blaze – Perfect for a fish with fiery colors.
- Captain – For a leader in the aquarium.
- Duke – A name that commands respect.
- Echo – For a fish with a distinctive and memorable appearance.
- Finn – A fitting name for any fish.
- Gus – Short and sweet, just like your pet.
- Hunter – For a fish with predatory instincts.
- Ivan – A strong, traditional name.
- Jasper – After the speckled stone, ideal for a patterned fish.
- King – For the ruler of your aquarium.
- Leo – Meaning ‘lion,’ for a brave fish.
- Max – A popular name for a beloved pet.
- Nemo – Inspired by the adventurous fish in “Finding Nemo.”
- Oscar – Perfect for a bold and striking fish.
- Pirate – For a fish with a mischievous streak.
- Quartz – A unique name for a unique fish.
- Rex – Meaning ‘king’ in Latin.
- Spike – For a fish with a spiky appearance.
- Triton – Named after the Greek god of the sea.
Popular Names for Pet Fish
Perhaps you like faddish fish names because of their universal appeal, whether due to popular culture or their catchy sound. Here are 20 of the most popular and fascinating pet fish names you may like:
1. Bubbles
2. Splash
3. Sushi
4. Blue
5. Flippy
6. Gill
7. Rainbow
8. Shadow
9. Sunny
10. Sparkle
11. Tango
12. Ziggy
13. Angel
14. Crystal
15. Flash
16. Marbles
17. Neptune
18. Pebbles
19. Shimmer
20. Twinkle
Funny Pet Fish Names
Adding humor to your pet’s name can bring a smile whenever you see them. The best humorous names to give your fish combine wit and popular references to make the joke obvious at once. Here are great ones to try. See if you can recognize the references:Â
1. Fin Diesel
2. Swim Shady
3. Fishgerald
4. Gilly Idol
5. Baitoven
6. H2Oprah
7. Cod Stewart
8. Swimmy Fallon
9. Kriller
10. Bubbles McFishface
11. Fish Stick
12. Sir Swimsalot
13. Puff Daddy
14. Swimothy
15. Aquaman
16. Gupp With It
17. Swimona Ryder
18. Algae Eater
19. Bubble Guppie
20. Wet Willy
These names are pun-filled and perfect for a fish with a playful personality.
Unique Pet Fish Names
Who says your little finned friend must have an everyday name? If you want a unique name for your fish, perhaps something unconventional, here are 20 one-of-a-kind options:
1. Azul
2. Calypso
3. Drift
4. Ebb
5. Fathom
6. Glint
7. Hydrus
8. Infinity
9. Jett
10. Kelpie
11. Lagoon
12. Mystic
13. Nautilus
14. Orion
15. Prism
16. Quasar
17. Ripple
18. Surge
19. Tidal
20. Vortex
Fictional Pet Fish Names
Fiction, both in movie and written format, is full of great names you can give your fish. Here are 20 great fictional fish pet names inspired by characters from movies, books, and mythology:
1. Aquafina
2. Atlantica
3. Blinky
4. Crush
5. Dagon
6. Elmo
7. Flounder
8. Glub
9. Hydron
10. Ichthy
11. Jaws
12. Koi Story
13. Loch
14. Moby
15. Nixie
16. Orca
17. Poseidon
18. Quibble
19. Scuba
20. Triton
These names add a touch of fantasy and imagination to your pet’s identity.
Famous PET Fish Names
Many individual fish are popular in fiction and non-fiction, some for bravery and gallantry, others for interesting personalities or stories. Here are 20 names inspired by famous fish from history, movies, and literature:
1. Cleo (from “Pinocchio”)
2. Comet (from “The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That!”)
3. Darwin (from “The Amazing World of Gumball”)
4. Flipper
5. Free Willy
6. Goldie (from “The Simpsons”)
7. Jaws
8. Klaus (from “American Dad!”)
9. Lenny (from “Shark Tale”)
10. Monstro (from “Pinocchio”)
11. Nemo (from “Finding Nemo”)
12. Oscar (from “Shark Tale”)
13. Puff (the Magic Dragon)
14. Sharkbait (from “Finding Nemo”)
15. Swiper (from “Dora the Explorer”)
16. Willy (from “Free Willy”)
17. Bruce (from “Finding Nemo”)
18. Don Lino (from “Shark Tale”)
19. Anchor (from “Finding Nemo”)
20. Chum (from “Finding Nemo”)
These names are great for fans of movies and pop culture.
Creative PET Fish Names
You can also throw away all you know and get creative with your fish’s name. Here are 20 great ones, but depending on your inspiration, you can come up with others.
1. Abyss
2. Borealis
3. Celeste
4. Dewdrop
5. Ember
6. Flux
7. Galaxy
8. Halo
9. Icicle
10. Java
11. Kiwi
12. Lotus
13. Mirage
14. Nebula
15. Oasis
16. Pixel
17. Quill
18. Rhapsody
19. Solaris
20. Twilight
With this extensive list of pet fish names, you’re sure to find the perfect name that captures the essence of your aquatic companion. Remember, the best name for your fish is one that feels right to you and suits your fish’s personality and appearance.
How To Name Your FishÂ
Choosing the perfect name for your blue companion from the aquatic world can be both fun and daunting. If you’re seeking inspiration, consider names derived from their physical attributes, such as Gill or Finn, which reflect parts of fish anatomy. Look to the specific species of your fish for a name that speaks to its unique identity.
Expand your horizon by considering your fish’s color, patterns, and unique characteristics. Names highlighting these aspects can add a personal touch and make your fish’s name special.
Navigating the Sea of Names
The sea of good names you can give your pet can seem boundless. Here are some buoys to help you navigate through:
1. Simplicity is Key:
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. You can’t go wrong with simple, one-syllable names like Finn or two-syllable names like Nemo.
2. Seek Far and Wide for Inspiration:
Use the sea of names itself as inspiration. That 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:Â
Has your fish’s arrival into your life been nothing short of a storybook tale? Consider names that reflect this special journey. Perhaps how your fish came into your life makes for a memorable tale.
You can name the fish to reflect that as well. Names inspired by favorite movies or books, such as Dora, meaning “God’s gift,” or the beloved Nemo, can add a narrative touch to your fish’s identity.
4. The Charm Factor:
Let the name reflect the cuteness and playfulness of your aquatic friend. For example, if your male fish gets along really well with female tankmates, consider naming him Prince Charming. 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.
5. The Name Trial:
Test out your favorite names to see how they feel when called out loud. Feedback from friends and family can be invaluable in gauging a name’s fit. However, how the name resonates with you is what ultimately matters.
6. A Collective Brainstorm:
If you’re stuck in a naming whirlpool, turn to your social circle or dive into online communities and forums to fish for ideas. By collaborating with people, you gain valued insights, which can translate to finding the perfect name
7. Revitalize Common Names:
One of the greatest name-creation techniques is to twist 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.
8. For the School of Fish:
When naming multiple fish, consider themes, pairings, or group names that reflect their collective identity. One idea to adopt is to draw inspiration from previous pets, as this can also connect generations of your aquatic family.
Final Thoughts
Naming your fish can indeed be a fun and meaningful journey! It’s a chance to showcase their unique personality and create a little story around them. Don’t rush it—take your time to explore different sources of inspiration.
Maybe it’s a favorite character from a book or movie, a meaningful word in another language, or even a clever pun related to fish or water. Enjoy the process, and when you stumble upon that perfect name, it’ll feel just suitable for your aquatic buddy!
Frequently Asked Questions
You may post any questions on pet fish naming in the comment section, but here are some quick answers to some questions you might have on the subject.Â
Can Fish Respond to Their Names?
Some think fish know and respond to names, but this is highly unlikely. Fish can react to sounds but not necessarily to specific words.
What Is the Cutest Fish Name?
A name’s cuteness is subjective, and no single name is the cutest. However, names like Spikey, Nemo, and Bubbles are among the cutest for most people.
Can I Give My Fish A Human Name?
You can name your pet fish after anything as long as the name is meaningful to you.
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.