Fish are some of the most sought-after animals for fishing, but not all fish come cheap.
Some species of fish can be extremely expensive, and their unique features or rarity drive up their prices to astronomical levels.
In this article, we’ll be discussing some of the world’s most expensive fish, the reasons behind their prices, and some fun facts you probably didn’t know!
Without any further ado, here are fifteen of the most expensive fish on earth:
1. Bluefin Tuna
One bluefin tuna can cost you up to $175,000! These prized fish are highly sought after by sushi chefs, who pay a premium for them due to their size and taste. The bluefin tuna population has been drastically reduced due to overfishing, so they’re now considered an endangered species and highly regulated by international law.
2. Arapaima
This rare Amazonian fish is a favorite among aquarium owners, as it can grow up to 10 feet long! It’s also known as a “living fossil” because its existence dates back hundreds of millions of years! Prices for this exotic species range from $10,000 up to $15,000.
3. Beluga Sturgeon
Found primarily in the Caspian Sea region, this majestic fish grows up to 23 feet long and can live for well over 100 years! Beluga sturgeon caviar is one of the most coveted delicacies in the world and sells for around $7,500 per kilogram (around 2 pounds).
4. Coelacanth
This ancient fish was thought to have gone extinct about 65 million years ago until one was caught off the coast of South Africa in 1938! These rare specimens sell for around $5,000 each and are often used by museums in exhibitions that focus on extinction topics or prehistoric creatures.
5. Asian Arowana
This beautiful tropical fish is believed by many cultures to bring good luck! They usually sell for around $5,000 each but can go as high as $350,000 if they have rare coloring or markings that make them particularly desirable.
6. Golden Mahseer
Native to India and Pakistan, these large river-dwelling creatures are highly sought after by anglers looking for a challenge! They typically sell for anywhere between $3,500-$4,500 each depending on size and coloration patterns.
7. Bluefin Tuna
Bluefin tuna are some of the most sought-after fish in the world due to their delicious flavor and firm texture. They are also one of the most expensive, with a single fish often selling for tens of thousands of dollars. Bluefin tuna are found in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and can grow to be over 10 feet long and weigh over 1,000 pounds.
8. Neon Tetra
Neon tetras are a type of freshwater fish that originate from South America. They are a popular choice for aquariums due to their brightly colored bodies and long fins. Neon tetras can grow to be around two inches in length and can live for up to five years. Prices for neon tetras start at around $5 but can go up to $50 for rarer varieties
9. Kobia
Kobia are large, predatory fish that are found in tropical waters around the world. They are prized for their meat, which is considered to be among the finest of all fish. Kobia steaks can sell for over $200 per pound, making them some of the most expensive fish in the world.
10. Giant Trevally
Giant trevally are large saltwater fish that are found in tropical waters around the world. They are prized for their meat, which is considered to be among the finest of all fish. Giant trevally steaks can sell for over $200 per pound, making them some of the most expensive fish in the world.
11. Blue Marlin
Blue marlin are large saltwater fish that are found in tropical waters around the world. They are prized for their meat, which is considered to be among the finest of all fish. Blue marlin steaks can sell for over $200 per pound, making them some of the most expensive fish in the world.
12. Clownfish
Clownfish are small tropical fish that are native to the Indian and Pacific Oceans. They are best known for their bright orange coloration and their association with anemones. Clownfish are popular pets due to their low maintenance requirements and their relatively low cost, with most fish selling for less than $100.
13. Discus Fish
The discus fish is a species of freshwater fish that originates from the Amazon River Basin. It is a popular aquarium fish due to its unique shape and vibrant colors. Discus fish can be difficult to care for, however, and they are one of the more expensive pet fish, with most fish selling for between $100 and $500.
14. Goldfish
Goldfish are small freshwater fish that originate from China. They were first bred for their coloration, which ranges from golden yellow to bright orange. Goldfish are one of the most popular pet fish in the world due to their low cost and easy care requirements. Most goldfish sell for less than $10.
15. Koi Fish
Koi fish are a subspecies of carp that originates from Japan.
They are bred for their ornamental value and come in a wide range of colors, including black, white, red, and orange.
Koi fish are popular pond fishes due to their beauty and gracefulness.
They can also be quite expensive, with some fish selling for thousands or even millions of dollars, as was the case with “S Legend,” a Kōhaku koi that was sold for nearly two million USD ($1.8m).
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to start an exotic aquarium or trying your hand at catching some rare specimens out on your next fishing trip, our list of the world’s most expensive fish will certainly give you something interesting to focus on!
Be sure to do your research before buying any rare aquatic creature, however, as some countries may have restrictions regarding which types you can keep as pets or what size limits there may be when it comes to selling certain species commercially.
Happy fishing everyone!
Do you plan on acquiring any of these fish for yourself one day?
Let us know in the comments below!