Fishes That Start With B: Names and Facts

Fishes that start with B include aquarium species such as bettas and bristlenose catfish, freshwater species such as banded killifish, and marine animals such as barracudas and bull sharks. Common names are not a taxonomic checklist: one name can cover several species, and “shark” in a common name does not always mean a cartilaginous shark.

How to use this B-fish list

This page preserves its original examples and table, while adding selected corrections where claims conflict with reliable references. Treat an entry as a search lead, not as a verified species identification. For a precise identification, compare the fish’s scientific name, location, habitat, and visible features in an authoritative species database or local wildlife guide.

A common name can refer to multiple species or an informal group. For example, “butterflyfish” names a family of reef fishes, while “blacktip reef shark” names a species distinct from the Atlantic blacktip shark covered by NOAA. Scientific names make those distinctions clearer, but even accepted names and classifications can change as taxonomy is revised.

Corrections to several fish facts

Entry	What to know
Banded killifish	Fundulus diaphanus is native to eastern North America. It occupies shallow freshwater and brackish environments such as vegetated lakes, ponds, streams, marshes, and estuaries. It is not a tropical coral-reef fish; its diet includes small invertebrates, zooplankton, and algae. Oregon Sea Grant and the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife describe its habitat and range.
Bala shark	Balantiocheilos melanopterus is a freshwater member of the carp-and-minnow family Cyprinidae, not a true shark. Zoo Thailand describes it as a schooling river fish that eats small shrimp, aquatic insects, and other small animals; calling it vegetarian is inaccurate. Toronto Zoo lists adults to about 35 cm and up to six years in captivity, not the source’s three feet and more than 20 years. A 2007 taxonomic revision separates Indochinese specimens formerly treated as this species into B. ambusticauda, so older range summaries need care. Zoo Thailand, Toronto Zoo, and the original taxonomic description.
Baikal oilfish	The name refers to two species endemic to Lake Baikal. The current Catalog of Fishes accepts Comephorus baikalensis and C. dybowski. Studies describe well-developed gill arches in both and discuss lipid accumulation in relation to buoyancy in the swim-bladderless big oilfish. They do not establish that oil lets it breathe through its skin, makes deep water oxygen-poor, or enables long dives or winter survival; measured lipid amounts also differ by species and sample. Gill-structure study, study discussing buoyancy, and lipid measurements for both species.
Blacktip sharks	“Blacktip reef shark” and “Atlantic blacktip shark” are different common names for different species. NOAA’s Atlantic blacktip profile gives the scientific name Carcharhinus limbatus; do not transfer that profile’s range or measurements to the blacktip reef shark, C. melanopterus. NOAA Fisheries species profile.
Betta	“Betta” can mean the genus Betta or, in aquarium use, the Siamese fighting fish Betta splendens. The latter is one species in a wider genus. National Geographic describes wild bettas as native to shallow freshwater habitats in Southeast Asia; captive fin and color forms should not be mistaken for the full appearance of the wild species. National Geographic overview.

Frequently asked questions

Does every name in the table identify one fish species?

No. The table preserves 115 name entries, but common names can refer to a single species, multiple species, a genus, or a broader group. The California Academy of Sciences’ Catalog of Fishes tracks accepted scientific names and their history; use a scientific name plus a trusted source when exact identification matters.

Is a bala shark a true shark?

No. The bala shark is Balantiocheilos melanopterus, a freshwater cyprinid in the carp-and-minnow family. “Shark” is part of its common name, but true sharks belong to a different group of cartilaginous fishes. The name alone is not enough to identify its taxonomy or care needs.

Where does the banded killifish live?

The banded killifish is a North American fish found in shallow freshwater and brackish environments, including ponds, lakes, slow streams, marshes, and estuaries. It is often associated with aquatic vegetation. It is not a tropical reef species, despite the source article’s earlier description.

Are Baikal oilfish found in every lake?

No. Baikal oilfish are endemic to Lake Baikal in Siberia. The current Catalog of Fishes accepts the names big Baikal oilfish, Comephorus baikalensis, and little Baikal oilfish, C. dybowski. Research describes deep-water habits, but claims about breathing through skin or oil-powered survival need separate evidence.

Why include common names and scientific names together?

Common names make a list readable, while scientific names help distinguish species whose everyday names overlap or vary by place. A good identification check also confirms range and habitat: a fish recorded only in Lake Baikal is not interchangeable with a similarly named aquarium or coastal fish.

Research sources

• California Academy of Sciences, Eschmeyer’s Catalog of Fishes
• NOAA Fisheries, Atlantic Blacktip Shark
• Oregon Sea Grant, Banded Killifish
• New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife, freshwater fish guide
• Peer-reviewed study of Baikal oilfish mitochondrial genomes
• Zoo Thailand, Bala Shark
• National Geographic, Betta Fish
• Toronto Zoo, Tri-colour Shark
• Ng and Kottelat 2007, Bala shark taxonomy
• Eschmeyer’s Catalog, big Baikal oilfish
• Eschmeyer’s Catalog, little Baikal oilfish
• Gill structure of Baikal oilfish
• Study of pectoral-fin development and buoyancy
• Lipid measurements in two Baikal oilfish species

Source note: The original article below is retained for reference and has not been fully fact-checked. The sourced corrections above address selected examples only; treat other profile details and list entries as unverified until checked against a current species source.

There are many different types of fish that start with the letter B. Some of the most popular include the bluefin tuna, the blacktip reef shark, and the barramundi. Each of these fish has its own unique features, making them all interesting and enjoyable to watch.

The bluefin tuna is a large, predatory fish that can grow up to 15 feet in length. It is found in the open ocean, and is prized for its delicious flesh. The blacktip reef shark is a smaller species of shark that is commonly found near coral reefs. It gets its name from the black tips on its fins. The barramundi is a freshwater fish that is native to Australia and Southeast Asia. It is a popular sportfish, and is also considered to be a good food fish.

There are many other types of fish that start with B, but these are just a few of the most popular. If you’re interested in learning more about these amazing creatures, be sure to do some additional research. You’ll be sure to find something new and exciting about each one.

Fishes are a group of aquatic vertebrates, they can be either fresh or salt water dwelling. Fishes are an important source of food for humans. The term “fish” can refer to both the true fishes, which are the subject of this article, as well as the lampreys and hagfishes.

There are over 32,000 species of fish, making them the most diverse group of vertebrates. Fishes come in all shapes and sizes, from the massive whale shark to the tiny goby. Fishes can be found in all corners of the globe, from the deepest depths of the ocean to the highest mountain streams.

Fishes are a vital part of the ecosystem, they are both predators and prey. Many species of fish are commercially fished, making them an important part of the economy as well as the food chain. Fishes are a popular pet, with many people keeping fish tanks in their homes.

Fishes That Start With The Letter B

Betta

The betta is a freshwater fish known for its beautiful fins and vibrant colors. The betta is a member of the gourami family and is native to Southeast Asia. The betta is also known as the Siamese fighting fish. The betta is known for its long, flowing fins and vibrant colors. The betta is a popular fish for aquariums and makes a great pet for both beginners and experienced fishkeepers.

Black Moor

The Black Moor is a type of goldfish that gets its name from its black coloration. The Black Moor is a popular fish for both beginner and experienced fishkeepers alike. The Black Moor is a hardy fish that can live in a variety of water conditions. The Black Moor is a peaceful fish that does well in community tanks.

Bristlenose Pleco

The bristlenose pleco is a freshwater fish that is native to South America. The bristlenose pleco is a popular fish for both beginner and experienced fishkeepers. The bristlenose pleco is a peaceful fish that does well in community tanks. The bristlenose pleco is a hardy fish that can live in a variety of water conditions. The bristlenose pleco is known for its long, bristly fins.

Butterflyfish

Butterflyfish are a type of saltwater fish that is native to the reefs of the Indo-Pacific. Butterflyfish are a popular fish for both beginner and experienced fishkeepers. Butterflyfish are a peaceful fish that does well in community tanks. Butterflyfish are a hardy fish that can live in a variety of water conditions. Butterflyfish are known for their beautiful colors and patterns.

Baikal Oilfish

Deep within the icy waters of Lake Baikal in Siberia lives a curious creature – the Baikal oilfish. This ancient fish, nicknamed the “living fossil,” has existed for millions of years, relatively unchanged. Unlike most fish that rely on oxygen for energy, the Baikal oilfish stores a unique oil in its body, allowing it to breathe through its skin! This oily fuel gives it incredible endurance, enabling it to thrive in the oxygen-poor depths of the lake.

Imagine a fish shimmering with a rainbow of oil droplets! That’s the Baikal oilfish, with up to 40% of its body weight made up of this oily fuel. This adaptation allows it to dive for long periods and even survive harsh winters when the lake freezes over. The Baikal oilfish is a true marvel of evolution, showcasing nature’s ingenuity in adapting to extreme environments.

Bala Shark

Next up, we meet the majestic Bala shark, a gentle giant native to the fast-flowing rivers of Southeast Asia. These sleek fish can grow up to 3 feet long, but fear not, they’re vegetarian! Their graceful movements and shimmering silver scales make them a popular choice for aquariums. In the wild, they form large schools, gliding effortlessly through the water like underwater dancers.

Did you know Bala sharks can live for over 20 years in captivity? These social fish thrive in groups, their shimmering scales flashing as they move in synchronized harmony. Watching a school of Bala sharks glide through the water is a truly mesmerizing sight, teaching children about the beauty and importance of social behavior in the animal kingdom.

Banded Killifish

Let’s head to the vibrant coral reefs of the tropics to meet the Banded killifish, a dazzling display of color in a compact package. These tiny fish, rarely exceeding 2 inches, boast dazzling stripes and patterns that rival any fireworks display. Males often sport particularly vibrant colors, vying for the attention of females with their flashy fins.

Despite their small size, Banded killifish play a vital role in the coral reef ecosystem. They feed on tiny invertebrates, helping to keep the reefs healthy. Their short lifespans of just a few months also make them valuable indicators of environmental changes, reminding us of the delicate balance of life in our oceans.

Bamboo Shark

Imagine a shark perfectly blending into its surroundings, almost invisible to the naked eye. That’s the bamboo shark, a small yet stealthy hunter lurking in the coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific. Growing to just 3-4 feet, these sharks get their name from their slender bodies and flattened heads, resembling stalks of bamboo. Their brown and yellow mottled skin mimics the colors of the coral and algae, making them masters of camouflage.

Bamboo sharks are ambush predators, using their incredible camouflage to wait patiently for unsuspecting prey to swim by. They primarily feed on small fish and shrimp, using their sharp teeth and powerful jaws to snatch their meal. Despite their impressive hunting skills, bamboo sharks are peaceful creatures and pose no threat to humans. Their camouflage skills can be a fun science lesson, teaching children about adaptation and the importance of blending in for survival.

Bandfish

Let’s journey to the shallows of tropical reefs, where we encounter the vibrant and energetic bandfish. These tiny fish, rarely exceeding 4 inches, are a whirlwind of color and movement. Their slender bodies are adorned with dazzling stripes and patterns, with males often sporting even more flamboyant fins to attract mates.

These miniature marvels are social creatures, living in small groups and performing synchronized swimming displays. Their vibrant colors and coordinated movements resemble a dazzling underwater ballet, earning them the nickname “flashers.” Watching these tiny dancers interact teaches children about social behavior, cooperation, and the importance of communication in the animal kingdom.

Banjo Catfish

From the coral reefs to the murky depths of South American rivers, we meet the banjo catfish, a unique nocturnal musician. These bottom-dwelling fish have flattened heads adorned with whisker-like barbs, resembling the strings of a banjo. Their bodies are armored with bony plates, and their large mouths are perfect for vacuuming up food from the riverbed.

But the banjo catfish’s most interesting feature is its ability to create sounds! By vibrating its swim bladder and grinding its teeth together, this fish can produce a series of clicking and grunting noises. These sounds are thought to be used for communication, helping them find mates and defend their territory. Listening to the underwater “music” of the banjo catfish can be a fun activity for children, sparking their curiosity about communication in different species.

Barbeled Houndshark

Meet the barbeled houndshark, a deep-sea detective with a curious name and even more intriguing abilities. Unlike most sharks, this bottom-dweller relies less on sight and more on its incredible sense of smell. Its face is adorned with barbels, whisker-like appendages that act as olfactory superpowers, helping it sniff out food buried in the dark depths of the ocean. These barbels can grow up to 12 inches long, making this shark resemble a mustachioed underwater sleuth!

Barbeled houndsharks live in the cold, dark waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, at depths between 600 and 2,600 feet. Their bodies are long and slender, reaching up to 10 feet in length, and their mouths are filled with sharp, backward-facing teeth perfect for catching squid, worms, and other unsuspecting prey. These sharks are fascinating examples of how different species adapt to their environments, using their senses to thrive in the most challenging depths.

Barbel-less Catfish

In the murky waters of South America’s Amazon River basin lives the barbel-less catfish, a creature that defies expectations. Unlike most catfish, renowned for their whisker-like barbels, this smooth-skinned wonder has none. But don’t underestimate its sensory prowess! The barbel-less catfish relies on its keen sense of touch and taste to navigate the muddy, low-visibility waters of its habitat.

These catfish are small but mighty, rarely exceeding 12 inches in length. Their bodies are long and slender, and their skin is covered in a protective layer of slime that helps them avoid predators and navigate through tight spaces. They primarily feed on insects, worms, and small fish, using their powerful mouths to suck up their prey from the riverbed. By studying the barbel-less catfish, we can learn about the remarkable diversity of adaptations that allow different species to thrive in unique environments.

Barfish

Let’s journey to the sun-dappled shallows of mangrove forests, where we encounter the barfish, a master of disguise. This small, silvery fish, rarely exceeding 4 inches, is an expert at blending in with its surroundings. Its translucent body and shimmering scales perfectly mimic the sunlight filtering through the mangroves, making it nearly invisible to predators and unsuspecting prey.

Barfish are social creatures, living in loose schools and feeding on tiny plankton and crustaceans. Their incredible camouflage allows them to dart in and out of the mangrove roots, evading larger fish and hunting for food. Watching these miniature marvels flit through the water can teach children about the importance of camouflage in the animal kingdom and the diverse strategies species use to survive.

Beardfish

Imagine a fish with a flowing “beard” that helps it blend into the seafloor. Meet the beardfish, a bottom-dwelling wonder found in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. These stealthy creatures grow up to 4 feet long and are named for their long, whisker-like barbels that resemble a beard. But these barbels are more than just facial hair; they’re sensory superpowers!

Beardfish use their barbels to taste and smell their surroundings, helping them find food buried in the sand and mud. Their camouflage skills are top-notch, with mottled brown and green bodies that perfectly mimic the seafloor. They even wiggle their barbels in the sand to create ripples, further blurring the lines between fish and seabed! Studying the beardfish teaches us about adaptation, sensory perception, and the importance of camouflage in the animal kingdom.

Batfish

Prepare to be mesmerized by the batfish, a fish that looks like it leaped straight out of a comic book. Found in the deep waters of the Galapagos Islands and around Australia, this bizarre beauty has large, wing-like pectoral fins that propel it through the water like an underwater airplane. It even has a flattened body and a fin on its tail that resembles a rudder, making it a master of maneuverability.

Batfish grow up to 2 feet long and spend their days flitting through the darkness, using bioluminescent organs near their mouths to attract tiny shrimp and plankton. Their unique body shape and swimming style make them fascinating examples of convergent evolution, where unrelated species develop similar adaptations due to similar environments. Observing these underwater aviators sparks curiosity about diversity, adaptation, and the wonders of the deep sea.

Billfish

Hold onto your hats, because we’re encountering the ocean’s speed demons: billfish! These sleek and powerful fish, like marlins, sailfish, and swordfish, are renowned for their elongated snouts, or bills, which they use to hunt and defend themselves. These bills can be razor-sharp and reach up to half the length of the fish’s body, making them formidable predators.

Billfish are Olympic athletes of the ocean, capable of reaching speeds of 60 miles per hour in short bursts. Their streamlined bodies and powerful tails propel them through the water with incredible efficiency. They use their bills to spear prey like tuna, squid, and flying fish, making them apex predators in their ecosystems. Learning about billfish teaches us about adaptations for speed and hunting, the importance of predator-prey relationships in the ocean, and the awe-inspiring athleticism of these aquatic marvels.

Black Scabbardfish

Imagine a fish that lives miles below the ocean’s surface, where even sunlight dares not reach. Meet the black scabbardfish, a mesmerizing creature from the depths. These slender, eel-like fish grow up to 4 feet long and are named for their dark, almost black bodies. But the black scabbardfish don’t let the darkness stop them!

These deep-sea wonders have a secret weapon: bioluminescence. They possess light-emitting organs along their bodies, producing a soft, blue-green glow that helps them attract prey and communicate with each other. Studying the black scabbardfish teaches us about adaptation to extreme environments, bioluminescence in the deep sea, and the incredible diversity of life found even in the darkest corners of the ocean.

Black Triggerfish

Let’s journey to the vibrant coral reefs, where we encounter the black triggerfish, a fish that combines stunning colors with a feisty personality. These medium-sized fish, reaching up to 1.5 feet, are adorned with bold black and white stripes and a bright blue mouth. But their most striking feature is the dorsal fin, which they can erect like a flag, showcasing their vibrant colors and warning potential rivals.

Black triggerfish are territorial creatures, fiercely defending their patch of reef against intruders. They use their powerful jaws to crush coral and invertebrates, while their sharp teeth even help them pry open sea urchins! Observing these colorful fish teaches us about territoriality in the animal kingdom, the diversity of coral reef ecosystems, and the importance of conservation to protect these vibrant habitats.

Blue Shark

Soar through the open ocean alongside the blue shark, a magnificent predator known for its sleek beauty and impressive speed. These large sharks, averaging 8-12 feet, are named for their stunning blue-gray bodies that blend seamlessly with the ocean depths. They are graceful and powerful swimmers, capable of reaching speeds of 25 miles per hour and covering vast distances during their migrations.

Blue sharks are opportunistic feeders, preying on fish, squid, and even marine mammals. Their sharp teeth and powerful jaws help them tear through their prey, making them apex predators in their oceanic habitats. Studying the blue shark teaches us about migration patterns, adaptations for open-water hunting, and the importance of maintaining healthy predator-prey relationships in the ocean ecosystem.

Butterfish

Sun-kissed waters welcome us to the habitat of the butterfish, a dazzling display of iridescent scales. These small, oval-shaped fish rarely exceed 12 inches but shine brightly with their silvery-gold coloration. Their scales change hues depending on the angle of light, making them resemble shimmering jewels flitting through the shallows.

Butterfish are herbivores, nibbling on algae and plankton with their small mouths. They prefer warm, temperate waters and often form large schools, their shimmering scales creating a breathtaking spectacle as they move in synchrony. Observing these radiant fish teaches children about the beauty of sunlight reflection, the importance of algae in marine ecosystems, and the social behavior of fish in schools.

Buffalo Fish

Let’s head inland to explore the freshwater depths, where we encounter the mighty buffalo fish. These large, robust fish can grow up to 4 feet long and weigh over 40 pounds! Their bodies are broad and silvery, with humped backs that resemble the American bison, earning them their apt name. But despite their size, buffalo fish are gentle giants, primarily feeding on plankton and small invertebrates.

These freshwater marvels play a vital role in keeping rivers healthy by filtering the water and consuming algae. They are also popular sport fish, requiring patience and skill to land due to their powerful bodies. Studying the buffalo fish teaches children about freshwater ecosystems, the importance of filter feeders in maintaining water quality, and the sustainable practices involved in responsible fishing.

Bramble Shark

Finally, we plunge into the mysterious depths of the ocean to meet the intriguing bramble shark. These small, slender sharks, rarely exceeding 3 feet, are named for their spiny skin, resembling thorny brambles. But their most fascinating feature lies in their unique barbels. These whisker-like appendages glow with bioluminescence, attracting small fish and squid that the bramble shark then expertly snatches with its sharp teeth.

Bramble sharks are bottom-dwellers, navigating the darkness with their bioluminescent barbs and incredible sense of smell. They play an important role in the deep-sea ecosystem, controlling prey populations and contributing to the fascinating bioluminescent displays of the dark depths. Studying these sharks teaches children about adaptation to extreme environments, the wonders of bioluminescence, and the intricate food webs that exist even in the deepest parts of the ocean.

115 Fishes Beginning With B

Baikal oilfish	Bala shark
Ballan wrasse	Bamboo shark
Banded killifish	Bandfish
Banjo	Bangus
Banjo catfish	Barb
Barbel	Barbeled dragonfish
Barbeled houndshark	Barbel-less catfish
Barfish	Barracuda
Barracudina	Barramundi
Barred danio	Barreleye
Basking shark	Bass
Basslet	Batfish
Bat ray	Beachsalmon
Beaked salmon	Beaked sandfish
Beardfish	Beluga sturgeon
Bengal danio	Betta
Bichir	Bicolor goat fish
Bigeye	Bigeye squaretail
Bighead carp	Bigmouth buffalo
Bigscale	Bigscale pomfret
Billfish	Bitterling
Black angelfish	Black bass
Black dragonfish	Blackchin
Blackfin Tuna	Blackfish
Black neon tetra	Blacktip reef shark

Black mackerel	Black scalyfin
Black sea bass	Black scabbardfish
Black swallower	Black tetra
Black triggerfish	Bleak
Blenny	Blind goby
Blind shark	Blobfish
Blowfish	Blue catfish
Blue danio	Blue-redstripe danio
Blue eye trevalla	Bluefin tuna
Bluefish	Bluegill
Blue gourami	Blue shark
Blue triggerfish	Blue whiting
Bluntnose knifefish	Bluntnose minnow
Boafish	Boarfish
Bobtail snipe eel	Bocaccio
Boga	Bombay duck
Bonefish	Bonito
Bonnethead shark	Bonnetmouth
Bonytail	Bonytongue
Bowfin	Boxfish
Bramble shark	Bream
Brill	Bristlemouth
Bristlenose catfish	Broadband dogfish
Bronze corydoras	Brook lamprey
Brook stickleback	Brook trout

Brotula	Brown trout
Buffalo fish	Bullhead
Bullhead shark	Bull shark
Bull trout	Burbot
Bumblebee goby	Buri
Burma danio	Burrowing goby
Butterfish	Butterfly ray
Butterflyfish

Conclusion

The article discusses the various types of fishes that begin with the letter “B”. The author provides information on the habitat, diet and physical characteristics of each fish.

The article is a helpful guide for those interested in learning about different types of fishes. It is also a good resource for those who want to identify a specific fish.

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