84+ Dazzling Fish Names Starting with Letter D [ Fish Names ]

Have you ever wondered how many fish species start with the letter “D”? Well, wonder no more! We have compiled a list of 85 fish names that all begin with the letter “D”. From freshwater to saltwater, from small to large, this list covers a wide range of fish types.

1. Discus

Discus fish are a popular freshwater species known for their vibrant colors and round body shape. They originated from the Amazon River basin and require specific water conditions to thrive. Discus fish are peaceful creatures and prefer to live in groups.

2. Darter

Darters are a type of perch that can be found in freshwater streams and rivers across North America. They have elongated bodies with pointed heads and feed on small aquatic insects. Some darter species are threatened due to habitat destruction.

3. Dragonfish

Dragonfish, also known as the deep-sea dragonfish, are a group of bioluminescent fish found in deep ocean waters. They have large heads and mouths with sharp teeth, making them effective predators. Dragonfish are able to produce their own light through specialized organs called photophores.

4. Doctorfish

Doctorfish, also known as surgeonfish, are colorful tropical fish found in coral reefs. They have distinctive spines on their sides that resemble a surgeon’s scalpel, hence the name. These fish are herbivores and play an important role in maintaining the health of coral reef ecosystems.

5. Dogfish

Dogfish is a collective name for various species of small sharks found in oceans around the world. They have slender bodies and are known for their sharp teeth. Dogfish are often used for human consumption, but some species have experienced population declines due to overfishing.

6. Dolly Varden

Dolly Varden is a type of trout found in rivers and lakes in North America. They have colorful spots on their sides that resemble the traditional dress of a character from Charles Dickens’ book, A Christmas Carol. Dolly Varden are popular among anglers for their fight and agility.

7. Drum

Drum fish are a group of saltwater fish with distinctive round bodies and flat heads. They make a loud drumming sound by vibrating their swim bladder, hence the name. Some species, such as the red drum, are highly prized game fish, while others are commercially fished for food.

8. Darter goby

Darter gobies are small, colorful fish found in tropical and subtropical waters. They have elongated bodies with large eyes and live among rocks and corals on the ocean floor. Darter gobies feed on plankton and serve as an important source of food for larger fish.

9. Dwarf gourami

Dwarf gouramis are a popular freshwater aquarium fish known for their bright colors and peaceful nature. They come in various color variations, such as powder blue, gold flame, and neon red. These small fish do best in schools and require a well-maintained tank to thrive.

10. Dace

Dace is a common name for various freshwater fish species found in Europe and North America. They have slender bodies and are often used as bait by anglers. Dace are an important part of the food chain, serving as prey to larger fish and birds.

11. Dartfish

Dartfish are a group of small, colorful saltwater fish found in tropical and subtropical waters. They have elongated bodies with large fins and are often seen darting among corals or hiding in crevices. Dartfish are popular among aquarium enthusiasts for their vibrant colors and peaceful nature.

12. Denison barb

Denison barbs, also known as red line torpedo barbs, are a species of freshwater fish found in India. They have a striking appearance, with dark red and black stripes running down their bodies. Denison barbs are active swimmers and do best in large tanks with plenty of room to swim.

13. Dunkleosteus

Dunkleosteus is an extinct genus of armored fish that lived during the Late Devonian period, around 360 million years ago. They were one of the largest fish species to ever exist, reaching lengths of up to 33 feet (10 meters). Dunkleosteus had powerful jaws and sharp teeth, making them fierce predators in their underwater world.

14. Damselfish

Damselfish are a family of colorful saltwater fish found in tropical and subtropical waters. They have flat, oval-shaped bodies and are often seen swimming among corals in shallow reefs. Damselfish play an important role in coral reef ecosystems by grazing on algae and defending their territory from other fish.

15. Diamond tetra

Diamond tetras are a popular freshwater aquarium fish known for their silvery bodies and diamond-shaped markings. They originate from South America and are peaceful fish that do well in community tanks. Diamond tetras prefer to live in groups and require a well-planted tank with hiding spots.

16. Dolphin fish

Dolphin fish, also known as mahi-mahi or dorado, are a highly sought-after saltwater game fish found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. They have a distinctive appearance, with iridescent blue and green scales and a long dorsal fin. Dolphin fish are popular for their acrobatic jumps and strong fight when caught.

17. Dusky grouper

Dusky grouper is a large saltwater fish found in the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. They have a brownish-gray coloration and can reach sizes of up to 5 feet (1.5 meters) in length. Dusky grouper are an important food source for humans, but their populations have declined due to overfishing.

18. Dolphinfish

Dolphinfish, also known as pompano dolphin or lampuga, are a species of saltwater fish found in tropical and subtropical waters. They have a streamlined body shape and can reach lengths of up to 6 feet (1.8 meters). Dolphinfish are popular among anglers for their tasty meat and acrobatic jumps when caught.

19. Dwarf lionfish

Dwarf lionfish, also known as zebra turkeyfish, are a species of venomous saltwater fish found in the Indo-Pacific region. They have a distinctive appearance, with red and white stripes on their bodies and spines on their back that contain venom. Dwarf lionfish are popular among aquarium enthusiasts for their striking looks, but they require special care due to their venom.

20. Dottyback

Dottybacks are a family of small, colorful saltwater fish found in tropical and subtropical waters. They have elongated bodies with large fins and are often seen swimming among corals on the ocean floor. Dottybacks are popular among aquarium enthusiasts for their vibrant colors, but they can be territorial and aggressive towards other fish.

21. Dragonet

Dragonets, also known as mandarinfish, are a group of colorful saltwater fish found in the Indo-Pacific region. They have an elongated body and can be found in various color variations such as blue, green, and red. Dragonets have unique behaviors, such as walking on their fins, and require a well-established tank with plenty of live rock.

22. Driftwood catfish

Driftwood catfish, also known as whiptail catfish, are a species of freshwater fish found in South America. They have an elongated body with a flat head and can reach lengths of up to 8 inches (20 cm). Driftwood catfish get their name from their habit of using pieces of driftwood as shelter. They are peaceful fish and do well in community tanks.

23. Dwarf loach

Dwarf loaches are small, peaceful freshwater fish found in Southeast Asia. They have an elongated body with a striped pattern and are known for their ability to eat snails, making them popular among aquarium enthusiasts. Dwarf loaches prefer to live in groups and require a well-planted tank with hiding spots.

24. Diamond cichlid

Diamond cichlids, also known as diamond tetras, are a popular freshwater aquarium fish originating from South America. They have a silvery body with diamond-shaped markings and do well in community tanks with other peaceful fish. Diamond cichlids require a well-maintained tank with plenty of hiding spots and plants to thrive.

25. Dragon goby

Dragon gobies, also known as dragonfish or violet gobies, are a species of freshwater fish found in Asia. They have an elongated body with large fins and a unique ability to change color depending on their mood. Dragon gobies are bottom-dwellers and require a tank with sandy substrate and plenty of hiding spots. They also have a specialized diet and should only be kept by experienced aquarium enthusiasts. Some species of dragon gobies can grow up to 2 feet (60 cm) in length, making them an impressive addition to any tank.

More Fish Names Starting with Letter D:

S.No	Fish Name	Description
1	Dolphin Fish	Also known as Mahi-Mahi, Dolphin Fish are prized by anglers for their speed, beauty, and delicious taste.
2	Damselfish	A family of brightly colored saltwater fish, Damselfish are common in tropical coral reefs.
3	Darter	A group of small, freshwater fish, Darters are known for their vibrant colors and quick movements.
4	Discus	Named for their disc-like shape, Discus are popular in home aquariums due to their diverse patterns and colors.
5	Dogfish	A type of small shark, Dogfish are known for their spiny dorsal fins.
6	Dragonet	Small, bottom-dwelling fish, Dragonets are popular in the aquarium trade for their ornate patterns and colors.
7	Drum Fish	A family of fish named for the drumming or croaking sounds they make.
8	Dace	A term used for several species of small freshwater fish.
9	Dottyback	Known for their vibrant colors, Dottybacks are a popular choice for saltwater aquariums.
10	Danio	A family of small, schooling fish, Danios are popular in home aquariums due to their active behavior and bright colors.
11	Duckbill Eel	A deep-sea fish known for its elongated body and duckbill-like mouth.
12	Dusky Grouper	A large, predatory reef fish, the Dusky Grouper is popular among sport fishers.
13	Deep Sea Anglerfish	Known for their bioluminescent lure used to attract prey in the dark depths of the ocean.
14	Dab Fish	A type of flatfish found in the North Atlantic, Dab Fish are popular for their delicate flavor.
15	Dwarf Gourami	A small, brightly colored freshwater fish, Dwarf Gouramis are a popular choice for home aquariums.
16	Diamondback Terrapin	Though not a fish but a turtle, Diamondback Terrapins are often found in brackish coastal waters.
17	Dusky Shark	A large, slow-growing shark species found worldwide in tropical and temperate seas.
18	Dorado Catfish	One of the largest species of catfish in the world, found in the Amazon River.
19	Devil Ray	Known for their large pectoral fins that resemble wings, Devil Rays are a sight to behold in open oceans.
20	Dusky Flathead	A popular sport fish found in Australia’s coastal waters, known for its large mouth and dusky color.
21	Dolphin Wrasse	A brightly colored reef fish known for its high dorsal fin that resembles a dolphin’s dorsal fin.
22	Desert Pupfish	A small, hardy fish capable of surviving in extreme conditions, including desert springs and pools.
23	Dungeness Crab	Though technically a crustacean, Dungeness Crabs are a popular seafood item hailing from the West Coast of North America.
24	Deepwater Cardinalfish	A bioluminescent fish found in the deep sea, known for its large eyes adapted for low light conditions.
25	Dusky Dottyback	A small, brightly colored reef fish, Dusky Dottybacks are known for their aggressive behavior.
26	Dragon Wrasse	Known for their elongated bodies and intricate patterns, Dragon Wrasses are a fascinating addition to saltwater aquariums.
27	Dwarf Lionfish	A small, venomous fish known for its ornate fins and spines.
28	Diamond Sturgeon	A species of sturgeon known for its diamond-shaped scutes, found in the rivers of Eurasia.
29	Dwarf Cichlid	A group of small, colorful freshwater fish, Dwarf Cichlids are popular in home aquariums.
30	Diamond Goby	Known for their bright, diamond-like markings, Diamond Gobies are a popular choice for saltwater aquariums.
31	Donzella Fish	A small, schooling fish found in the Mediterranean Sea.
32	Dogtooth Tuna	A large, predatory fish known for its sharp, dog-like teeth.
33	Dusky Morwong	A bottom-dwelling fish found in the waters off southern Australia and New Zealand.
34	Dolly Varden Trout	A species of char found in cold-water tributaries of the Pacific Ocean.
35	Dentex	A genus of fish in the family Sparidae, Dentex are known for their strong jaws and sharp teeth.
36	Dusky Batfish	Known for its dark coloration and bat-like shape, the Dusky Batfish is a unique marine species.
37	Devil Firefish	Also known as the Lionfish, the Devil Firefish is known for its venomous spines and aggressive behavior.
38	Diana’s Hogfish	A brightly colored reef fish, Diana’s Hogfish are known for their distinctive patterns.
39	Dwarf Seahorse	The smallest seahorse species, Dwarf Seahorses are often kept in home aquariums.
40	Diamondback Squid	Though not a fish, the Diamondback Squid is an important part of the marine food chain.
41	Dwarf Sperm Whale	The smallest species of whale, the Dwarf Sperm Whale is more closely related to dolphins and porpoises.
42	Dark Shrimp Goby	A small, bottom-dwelling fish, Dark Shrimp Gobies are known for their symbiotic relationships with burrowing shrimp.
43	Dusky Perch	A freshwater fish found in Australia, the Dusky Perch is known for its dark coloration.
44	Dusky Pipefish	A small, elongated fish, the Dusky Pipefish is closely related to seahorses.
45	Doubleday’s Wrasse	A brightly colored reef fish, Doubleday’s Wrasse are known for their intricate patterns.
46	Diana Hogfish	A species of wrasse known for its bright colors and distinctive patterns.
47	Diamond Killifish	A small, brightly colored fish, Diamond Killifish are often found in brackish waters.
48	Dwarf Pencilfish	A small, schooling fish, Dwarf Pencilfish are popular in home aquariums due to their peaceful nature.
49	Dusky Millions Fish	A small, freshwater fish known for its ability to thrive in a variety of conditions.
50	Dwarf Rasbora	A small, colorful freshwater fish, Dwarf Rasboras are known for their active behavior and schooling nature.
51	Dusky Frillgoby	A small, bottom-dwelling fish, Dusky Frillgobies are known for their fringed fins.
52	Dwarf Checker Barb	A small, freshwater fish, Dwarf Checker Barbs are known for their checker-like pattern.
53	Dark Sleeper	A type of goby known for its nocturnal habits and bottom-dwelling nature.
54	Diamond Watchman Goby	Known for its bright, diamond-like markings, the Diamond Watchman Goby is a popular choice for saltwater aquariums.
55	Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish	A small, brightly colored fish, Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish are popular in home aquariums.
56	Dusky Gudgeon	A small, bottom-dwelling fish, Dusky Gudgeons are often found in slow-moving waters.
57	Dusky Parrotfish	Known for their ability to change colors and shapes, Dusky Parrotfish are a common sight on tropical reefs.
58	Dwarf Spotted Danio	A small, schooling fish, Dwarf Spotted Danios are known for their active behavior and bright spots.
59	Dusky Flathead Catfish	A species of catfish known for its large mouth and dusky color.
60	Dwarf Golden Moray	A small, brightly colored eel, the Dwarf Golden Moray is a popular choice for saltwater aquariums.
61	Dwarf Silver Dollar	A small, freshwater fish, Dwarf Silver Dollars are known for their round shape and silver color.
62	Dusky Leatherjacket	A type of filefish known for its leathery skin and dusky color.
63	Dwarf Zebra Lionfish	A small, venomous fish known for its ornate fins and zebra-like stripes.
64	Dusky Sweeper	A small, schooling fish, Dusky Sweepers are often found in caves and overhangs on tropical reefs.
65	Dwarf Hawkfish	A small, colorful fish, Dwarf Hawkfish are known for their ability to perch on coral and rocks.
66	Dusky Squirrelfish	A small, nocturnal fish, Dusky Squirrelfish are known for their large eyes and squirrel-like movements.
67	Dusky Jawfish	A small, bottom-dwelling fish, Dusky Jawfish are known for their ability to burrow in the sand.
68	Dwarf Colored Goby	A small, brightly colored fish, Dwarf Colored Gobies are often found in coral reefs.
69	Dwarf Monocle Bream	A small, bottom-dwelling fish, Dwarf Monocle Breams are known for their round shape and single dark spot.

Conclusion:

Overall, these 84 fish names starting with D showcase the incredible diversity found within the world of fish. From colorful reef inhabitants to fierce predators, each fish has its own unique characteristics and behaviors. Whether you’re an aquarium enthusiast or a fishing enthusiast, there’s always something new to learn about these fascinating creatures.