When choosing a pet fish, one of the most important factors to consider is its lifespan. Some fish species can live for just a few years, while others can thrive for decades. If you're looking for a long-lived pet fish, here are some of the top contenders:

What Fish Lives the Longest for a Pet?

Goldfish

Goldfish are a classic choice for aquarium pets, and for good reason. They're hardy, easy to care for, and can live for up to 20 years.

There are many different varieties of goldfish, each with its own unique appearance. Some of the most popular types include the common goldfish, the fancy goldfish, and the comet goldfish.

Goldfish are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, and live food. They need a spacious aquarium with plenty of swimming space and filtration.

Koi

Koi are a type of carp that are prized for their beauty and longevity. They can live for up to 50 years in captivity.

Koi are cold-water fish and need a pond or large aquarium with a water temperature between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They're omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, and live food.

Koi are social fish and should be kept in groups of at least three. They're also active swimmers, so they need plenty of space to swim.

Red-bellied Piranhas

Red-bellied piranhas are a type of carnivorous fish that are native to the Amazon River basin. They can live for up to 10 years in captivity.

Red-bellied piranhas are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six. They're also aggressive fish, so they should not be kept with other fish species.

Red-bellied piranhas need a spacious aquarium with plenty of swimming space and filtration. They're carnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including live food, frozen food, and pellets.

Conclusion

When choosing a long-lived pet fish, it's important to consider your own needs and lifestyle. Some fish species, like goldfish and koi, are easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of environments. Others, like red-bellied piranhas, require more specialized care and should only be kept by experienced aquarists.

No matter what type of fish you choose, be sure to do your research and provide your pet with the best possible care. With proper care, your fish can live a long and happy life.