Where Your Fish Come From
Explore the native habitats of 200 aquarium species — from the Amazon basin to the lakes of Papua New Guinea.
Browse Regions
Did You Know?
Splash Tetras lay their eggs OUT of the water — on overhanging leaves. The male then splashes water onto the eggs every few minutes until they hatch and drop into the water.
Aquarium Fish by the Numbers
Our Data
Species origin data is compiled from peer-reviewed scientific literature, FishBase (the global fish species database), and verified collection records. Geographic coordinates represent the core native range for each species — many have been introduced to other regions but are mapped to their original habitat. Care requirements are based on established aquarium literature and experienced keeper consensus. This database is actively maintained and expanded. Have a correction or suggestion? Contact us.
Sources
- FishBase
- Seriously Fish
- Primary scientific literature
Explore by Continent
Regional Difficulty Guide
Not all origins are equal — some regions produce hardy beginner fish, others demand experienced keepers.
Central America
BeginnerLivebearers and hardy cichlids that tolerate a wide range of water conditions. Ideal for new fishkeepers.
Southeast Asia
BeginnerHome to bettas, rasboras, and gouramis — adaptable species bred in captivity for generations.
India & Sri Lanka
BeginnerBarbs and danios from here are tank-bred staples. Hardy and forgiving of beginner mistakes.
Amazon Basin (clearwater)
IntermediateMost tetras and corydoras adapt well, but some species prefer soft, acidic water for optimal health.
Amazon Basin (blackwater)
AdvancedCardinal tetras, discus, and wild-caught species need very soft, acidic water (pH 5.0–6.5) and pristine conditions.
African Rift Lakes
IntermediateCichlids from Tanganyika and Malawi need hard, alkaline water (pH 7.5–8.5) — the opposite of most community fish.
Papua New Guinea
IntermediateRainbowfish are hardy once established but need stable, well-oxygenated water and room to swim.
Congo Basin
IntermediateCongo tetras and African catfish prefer soft water and subdued lighting. Sensitive to poor water quality.
Build an Authentic Biotope Tank
Our calculator can help you create a community of species from the same region — fish that would naturally live together in the wild.
Amazon Blackwater Community
A soft, acidic setup recreating the tannin-stained waters of the Rio Negro. Features peaceful tetras, dwarf cichlids, and armored catfish.
Amazon Clearwater Community
A brighter Amazon setup with tetras, corydoras, and peaceful community fish from the clearwater tributaries.
Lake Malawi Mbuna Tank
A rocky, alkaline setup featuring colorful mbuna cichlids from Africa's Lake Malawi. High activity, bold personalities.
Lake Tanganyika Shell Dweller
A specialized setup for shell-dwelling cichlids — tiny fish with huge personalities that live in empty snail shells.
Southeast Asian Stream
A lush planted tank with rasboras and gouramis from Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Conservation Note
Many popular aquarium fish are endangered or extinct in the wild. Captive breeding programs and responsible fishkeeping help preserve genetic diversity.
Critically Endangered / Extinct in Wild
🔴Endangered
🟠Vulnerable
🟡Buying captive-bred specimens helps reduce pressure on wild populations. Ask your local fish store about the origin of their fish.