Some fish species have the ability to light up. Yes, it’s true! There are such fish out there. So let’s learn more about these aquarium fish.
Aquarium Fish That Can Light Up
Glofish
Glofish are patented and trademarked brand of genetically engineered fluorescent fish.
They’re genetically modified from several different fish species, namely zebrafish, tetras, tiger barbs, rainbow sharks, and most recently, bettas.
Glofish were genetically modified to detect environmental pollution.
These fish are popular among aquarists due to their bright coloration and easy maintenance.
Glofish glow as they absorb light from their surroundings and slowly release that light when the light source is turned off.
Since glofish are bioluminescent, a dark background is ideal where their vibrant colors are clearly visible.
Neon Tetras
Neon tetras are small tropical freshwater fish belonging to the Characidae family.
They’re native to South America around the Amazon river basin.
These fish are popular among aquarists because of their attractive colors, docile nature, and easy maintenance.
Neon tetras aren’t bioluminescent fish, meaning they don’t produce light on their own.
Still, these fish glow in the dark because their iridescent blue color has highly reflective scales.
Their skin is made of bright fluorescent colors, which glow under UV light.
The fluorescent colors absorb light at a specific wavelength and produce a glowing effect.
Hence, you can often notice neon tetras glowing brightly under a black light or in the dark.
Clownfish
Clownfish is one of the most popular saltwater fish in the aquarium hobby.
These bright little fish are known to have lively personalities.
Clownfish inhabit the warm waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
They’re also found in shallow lagoons near Southeast Asia and Australia.
They come in different color varieties, including orange, yellow, and blue.
Each clownfish has thick white stripes outlined in thin dark lines that glow under soft black light.
These fish are favorites among aquarists for their tiny size and colorful appearance.
They also liven up the aquarium because when the lights go down, their glowing body creates a unique look inside the aquarium.
Platinum Angelfish
Platinum angelfish belong to the Cichlidae family. They primarily inhabit the slow-moving waters of South America.
Platinum angelfish are prized for their bright colors and long, flowing fins.
They’re a rare find and hence found only in a few aquariums.
These fish have a distinctive bright silvery sheen that reflects light.
Their scales are shiny and have a metallic appearance that glitters when light reflects off them.
Platinum angelfish are popular aquarium fish due to their easy maintenance and hardiness.
Their bright colors make these fish an excellent choice for any aquarium.
These fish will glow when placed in an aquarium with a black background.
Their bright colors make them stand out against the dark background.
They appear truly angelic when the aquarium’s lights are off as their white, iridescence, and silver color shines through.
