Types of Chinese Fish Species

One of the earliest-known types of Chinese fish species is the koi carp. This is not actually a distinct species of fish, but a cultivar of other carp species. This is predominately the Amur carp (Cyprinus rubrofuscus), something only determined relatively recently thanks to genetic testing. It is similar to how dogs have different breeds, but are all part of the same species.

Many centuries of breeding have provided koi carp with incredible patterns on their scales. These patterns display various combinations of white, red, black, yellow and even blue. Although they are often most associated with Japanese culture, koi carp were originally domesticated in China. This was mainly being bred for food. Breeding in Japan was more geared toward a decorative species for ornamental ponds.

In Chinese culture, koi carp are believed to represent strength and determination. This is inspired by the legend that a koi that swims against the current can become a dragon. You can learn more about the legends in Asian culture which surround this type of Chinese fish species with our article asking what is the koi fish legend?

The common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is one of the most important fish species in Chinese aquaculture. This stocky, large-scaled fish is widely raised for human consumption due to its rapid growth and adaptability. The common carp also has great cultural significance in China, being mostly associated with abundance and wealth. The common carp is one of the oldest fish farmed by humans, with records of its cultivation dating back more than 2,000 years.

Our next type of Chinese fish species is also known as one of the most popular aquarium fish. The goldfish is native to China, being domesticated over a millennium ago from wild carp species. Over this time, many different goldfish cultivars have been developed which display a great diversity of patterns and morphologies. They include fantail goldfish, sarasa goldfish and oranda goldfish types. The photo below shows a goldfish with a long tail.

Goldfish were introduced to Europe in the 17th century and quickly became popular pets around the world. They are types of freshwater Chinese fish which are relatively easy to care for, the reason they are so popular as pets. They are often considered a starter pet for children, but they still need good care and an appropriate tank.

Also known as the mandarin dragonet, the mandarinfish (Synchiropus splendidus) is closely associated with Chinese culture. Their name derives from the beautiful coloration and patterns which you can see in the photo below. These are similar to the ornately patterned robes worn by Chinese mandarin, scholars who were revered members of society.

While they are beautiful, they are quite small Chinese fish. Their scales help them to blend in with the coral reefs which make up their natural habitat. They are highly prized in the aquarium trade. Being a marine Chinese fish species, they should be looked after by those with experience of saltwater aquariums. The mandarinfish produces a toxic mucus that protects it from marine predators.

Learn about another toxic fish species with our article asking where are weever fish found?

Another common freshwater Chinese fish species, the silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) is an Asian carp which is widely farmed in China for human consumption. This fish is characterized by its silvery body and upward-facing mouth, a feature which allows it to feed on plankton at the water's surface.

It is an important fish species in Chinese aquaculture due to its rapid growth and its role in algae control. Furthermore, silver carp are also known for their ability to leap out of the water when threatened. While this can be an amazing feat to witness, it is also a behavior which can be dangerous for fishermen.

Also known as the Asian bonytongue or dragonfish, the Asian arowana (Scleropages formosus) is a freshwater fish species from China prized for its majestic appearance and symbolism. With its elongated body and glossy scales, this fish is considered a symbol of power, wealth and good fortune. It has beautiful scales of varying colors, an example of which can be seen in the photo below.

Due to its beauty and rarity, the arowana is one of the most expensive fish in the world on the aquarium fish market. In Chinese culture, the arowana is believed to bring prosperity and protect its owner from negative energies.

Learn more about fish anatomy with our article asking do all fish have scales?

Also known as the Chinese catfish, the Amur catfish (Silurus asotus) is named after the large river which covers territory in northern China and the Russian Far East. Living in rivers, this is a Chinese freshwater fish known for its elongated body and lack of scales. It is an important fish in Chinese fisheries and aquaculture, also being used in traditional medicine. The Amur catfish is able to survive in waters with low oxygen levels, making it very adaptable.

Another example of a Chinese fish is the olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus), also known as the bastard halibut. It is a flatfish that lives in the coastal waters of China. Its common name derives from its sclae coloration which can be observed in the photo below.

This Chinese fish is highly prized in Chinese cuisine for its soft, white meat. Its flattened body and one-sided eyes make it easily recognizable. It is known for being a master of camouflage, capable of changing its color to blend in with the seabed.

You can learn more about how coloration affects the survival of various species with our article asking what is aposematism in animals?

Also known as the Siamese tiger perch, the Siamese tigerfish (Datnioides pulcher) is a freshwater Chinese fish known for its black vertical stripes and yellow body. This gives it an appearance that resembles a tiger. This fish is popular in aquariums due to its striking appearance and active behavior. Although native to Asia, its population in the wild has declined due to overfishing and habitat loss.

The northern snakehead (Channa argus) is a type of freshwater fish that is a predator found in rivers and lakes in China. With its elongated body and mouth full of sharp teeth, this fish is a formidable hunter. It is characterized by breathing atmospheric air, allowing it to survive in waters with little oxygen.

Although it is prized in Chinese cuisine, it is also considered an invasive species in other parts of the world due to its ability to adapt to new environments. It does not make a good aquarium fish due to both is large size and the fact it will likely eat most of the other fish.

Learn more about how to keep fish healthy at home with our article asking how long do aquarium fish live?

If you want to read similar articles to Types of Chinese Fish Species, we recommend you visit our Facts about the animal kingdom category.