Fish That Start With G [Full List]

From graceful giants to ghastly goblins, this group of aquatic creatures will leave you in awe of their diversity and adaptability. Each species has unique features that allow them to thrive in their respective environments, making them truly fascinating to observe and study. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of fish that begin with G!

When it comes to fish, there’s no doubt that they are some of the most captivating creatures on the planet. From their dazzling colors to their intricate behaviors, fish have long been a subject of fascination for people all over the world.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the unique characteristics of fish that start with G, exploring their habitats, diets, and adaptations that make them stand out from the rest.

Whether you’re an avid angler, an aquarium enthusiast, or just a curious nature lover, this article is sure to pique your interest and expand your knowledge of the amazing world of fish.

Fish That Start With G

The diverse group of fish that start with the letter “G” includes species that are found in a variety of habitats, ranging from freshwater streams to the deep ocean. They have different feeding habits, ranging from filter feeding to being carnivores that consume other fish and invertebrates. Each species has unique adaptations that allow them to survive in their particular environment.

Galjoen Fish

The galjoen fish, also known as Dichistius capensis, is a species of fish that can be found in the temperate waters of the southeastern Atlantic Ocean. This fish is highly sought after for its delicious taste and is often found in commercial fisheries. The galjoen fish is a hardy fish that is known for its ability to withstand the strong currents and rough waters of the Atlantic. They can grow up to 70 centimeters in length and weigh up to 5 kilograms.

Ganges Shark

The Ganges shark, Glyphis gangeticus, is a critically endangered species of freshwater shark that can be found in the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Mahanadi Rivers in India and Bangladesh. It is a small shark that can grow up to 2 meters in length and feeds mainly on small fish and crustaceans. The Ganges shark is a highly elusive species and is rarely seen by humans.

Gar

The gar, or Lepisosteus, is a type of freshwater fish that is native to North and Central America. This fish is known for its long, slender body and sharp teeth. The gar is a predatory fish that feeds on other fish and can grow up to 3 meters in length. It is also a popular game fish, known for its challenging fight when caught on a fishing line.

Garden Eel

The garden eel, or Heteroconger hassi, is a species of eel that can be found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific. These eels are known for their unique appearance, with a slender, snake-like body and a pointed head. Garden eels are named after their behavior of living in large groups in sandy or muddy bottoms, which give them the appearance of a garden.

Garibaldi

The Garibaldi, or Hypsypops rubicundus, is a brightly colored fish that is found along the coast of Southern California. It is the state fish of California and is known for its vibrant orange color. The Garibaldi is a territorial fish that can grow up to 38 centimeters in length and feeds mainly on small crustaceans and algae.

Garpike

The garpike, or Lepisosteus osseus, is a type of freshwater fish that is native to North America. It is a predatory fish that feeds on other fish and can grow up to 1.5 meters in length. The garpike is known for its long, slender body and its ability to breathe air using a specialized swim bladder.

Ghost Fish

The ghost fish, or Polyacanthus macrurus, is a species of fish that can be found in the coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific. It is named for its translucent body, which gives it a ghostly appearance. The ghost fish is a small, bottom-dwelling fish that feeds mainly on small crustaceans and other invertebrates.

Ghost Flathead

The ghost flathead, or Platycephalus indicus, is a species of fish that can be found in the waters of the Indo-Pacific. It is a bottom-dwelling fish that feeds mainly on small fish and crustaceans. The ghost flathead is named for its pale, almost translucent coloration, which gives it a ghostly appearance.

Ghost Knifefish

The ghost knifefish, or Apteronotus albifrons, is a species of fish that can be found in the freshwaters of South America. It is a nocturnal fish that feeds mainly on small fish and invertebrates. The ghost knifefish is named for its slender, knife-like body and its ability to produce electrical signals for communication and navigation.

Ghost Pipefish

The elusive Ghost Pipefish is a small and slender fish that belongs to the Syngnathidae family. Its elongated body, which can grow up to 17 centimeters in length, is covered in bony plates that provide excellent camouflage against the background of the coral reef. These fish are typically found in the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific, where they use their tubular snouts to suck up small crustaceans and plankton from the water column.

Ghost Shark

Also known as chimaeras, ghost sharks are a type of cartilaginous fish that live in the deep waters of the world’s oceans. These strange creatures have elongated bodies, large eyes, and long, whip-like tails. They use their sense of smell to locate prey, which includes small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. Unlike most sharks, ghost sharks lay eggs rather than giving birth to live young.

Ghoul

The Ghoul is a type of deep-sea fish that belongs to the family Eurypharyngidae. This strange-looking fish has a large head and a long, eel-like body that can grow up to 40 centimeters in length. Its skin is covered in small, light-producing organs called photophores, which it uses to attract prey in the dark depths of the ocean. The Ghoul feeds on a variety of small fish and crustaceans, which it captures using its long, tooth-lined jaws.

Giant Danio

The Giant Danio is a popular freshwater aquarium fish that belongs to the family Cyprinidae. These fish are known for their bright colors and active personalities, which make them a favorite among hobbyists. They can grow up to 10 centimeters in length and are typically found in the rivers and streams of Southeast Asia. Giant Danios are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including small insects, crustaceans, and plant matter.

Giant Gourami

The Giant Gourami is a large freshwater fish that belongs to the family Osphronemidae. These fish can grow up to 70 centimeters in length and are known for their distinctive shape, which is similar to that of a large goldfish. They are native to the rivers and lakes of Southeast Asia and are popular aquarium fish due to their peaceful nature and ability to eat a variety of foods, including insects, crustaceans, and plant matter.

Giant Sea Bass

The Giant Sea Bass, also known as the Black Sea Bass, is a large, slow-moving fish that can be found along the Pacific coast of North America. These fish can grow up to 2.5 meters in length and weigh up to 225 kilograms. Despite their size, Giant Sea Bass are not aggressive towards humans and are often seen by divers in the kelp forests off the coast of California. They feed on a variety of small fish and crustaceans, as well as squid and octopus.

Gibberfish

The Gibberfish is a deep-sea fish that belongs to the family Opisthoproctidae. This strange-looking fish has a large head and a small, eel-like body that is covered in small, light-producing organs called photophores. It uses these organs to attract prey in the dark depths of the ocean, where it feeds on small fish and crustaceans. The Gibberfish is found in all of the world’s oceans and can grow up to 30 centimeters in length.

Gila Trout

The Gila Trout is a species of freshwater trout that is native to the Southwestern United States. These fish are typically found in clear, cold mountain streams and can grow up to 45 centimeters in length.

They are known for their striking appearance, with a deep olive-green back, golden-yellow sides, and a reddish belly. The Gila Trout is an important species for anglers and is prized for its fighting spirit and delicious taste. Unfortunately, due to habitat loss and overfishing, the Gila Trout is now listed as an endangered species.

Gizzard Shad

The Gizzard Shad is a common freshwater fish that belongs to the family Clupeidae. These fish are found throughout the eastern United States and can grow up to 40 centimeters in length. They are known for their unique digestive system, which includes a muscular gizzard that helps them to grind up tough plant material. Gizzard Shad are an important food source for larger fish and are also used as bait by anglers.

Glass Catfish

The Glass Catfish is a popular aquarium fish that belongs to the family Siluridae. These fish are known for their translucent bodies, which allow their internal organs to be seen from the outside. Glass Catfish are native to the rivers of Southeast Asia and can grow up to 15 centimeters in length. They are peaceful fish that do well in community aquariums and are omnivores, feeding on a variety of foods including small fish, crustaceans, and plant matter.

Glassfish

The Glassfish, also known as the Indian Glassfish, is a species of freshwater fish that is native to the rivers of Southeast Asia. These fish are named for their transparent bodies, which allow their internal organs to be seen from the outside. Glassfish are popular aquarium fish due to their peaceful nature and ease of care. They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including small fish, crustaceans, and plant matter.

Glass Knifefish

The Glass Knifefish is a freshwater fish that is native to the rivers of South America. These fish are known for their long, slender bodies and transparent fins, which give them their distinctive appearance. Glass Knifefish are nocturnal and use their sensitive electroreceptors to navigate in the dark. They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including small fish, crustaceans, and plant matter.

Glowlight Danio

The Glowlight Danio, also known as the Dwarf Danio, is a small freshwater fish that is native to Myanmar. These fish are named for their bright orange-red coloration, which makes them stand out in any aquarium. Glowlight Danios are peaceful fish that do well in community tanks and are omnivores, feeding on a variety of foods including small insects, crustaceans, and plant matter.

Goatfish

The Goatfish is a species of marine fish that is found in the warm waters of the world’s oceans. These fish are named for their whisker-like barbels, which resemble the horns of a goat. Goatfish are bottom-dwelling fish that feed on small invertebrates and crustaceans in the sand and mud. They are an important food source for larger fish and are also targeted by commercial fishermen.

Goblin Shark

The Goblin Shark is a deep-sea shark that is known for its distinctive appearance. These sharks have long, protruding snouts that they use to detect prey in the dark depths of the ocean. They are also known for their large, protruding jaws, which can extend to catch prey. Goblin Sharks are found in all of the world’s oceans and can grow up to 4 meters in length.

Goby

The Goby is a small, bottom-dwelling fish that is found in both freshwater and saltwater environments. These fish are known for their bright colors and unique behavior, which includes forming symbiotic relationships with other species such as shrimp or crabs. Gobies are an important part of many aquatic ecosystems and can be found in a variety of habitats, from coral reefs to freshwater streams. They are also popular aquarium fish due to their vibrant colors and interesting behaviors.

Golden Dojo

The Golden Dojo, also known as the Weather Loach, is a freshwater fish that is native to Asia. These fish are named for their ability to sense changes in barometric pressure and are often kept in aquariums as weather indicators. Golden Dojos are bottom-dwelling fish that are known for their distinctive whiskers and love of burrowing in the substrate. They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including small fish, crustaceans, and plant matter.

Golden Loach

The Golden Loach, also known as the Golden Spiny Eel, is a freshwater fish that is native to Southeast Asia. These fish are named for their golden coloration and spiny dorsal fins, which they use for defense against predators. Golden Loaches are nocturnal and are often found hiding in caves or crevices during the day. They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including small fish, crustaceans, and plant matter.

Golden Shiner

The Golden Shiner is a freshwater fish that is native to North America. These fish are named for their bright golden coloration and are popular baitfish for anglers. Golden Shiners are schooling fish that are found in a variety of habitats, from streams to lakes. They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including small invertebrates, algae, and plant matter.

Golden Trout

The Golden Trout is a freshwater fish that is native to the mountain streams of California. These fish are named for their bright golden coloration and are popular with anglers due to their beauty and fighting spirit. Golden Trout are adapted to life in cold, fast-moving water and are often found in high-elevation streams. They are carnivores and feed on a variety of insects, crustaceans, and small fish.

Goldeye

The Goldeye, also known as the Herring Shad, is a freshwater fish that is found throughout North America. These fish are named for their golden-yellow eyes and are often caught by anglers using live bait or lures. Goldeyes are schooling fish that are found in a variety of habitats, from rivers to lakes. They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including small invertebrates, algae, and plant matter.

Goldfish

The Goldfish is a freshwater fish that is native to East Asia but is now found throughout the world as a popular aquarium fish. These fish are named for their bright golden coloration and unique body shape, which includes a double caudal fin and a round body. Goldfish are hardy fish that can adapt to a variety of water conditions and are omnivores, feeding on a variety of foods including small insects, crustaceans, and plant matter.

Gombessa

The Gombessa, also known as the Coelacanth, is a deep-sea fish that was thought to be extinct until a living specimen was caught off the coast of South Africa in 1938. These fish are named for their large, scale-less bodies and unique fin structure, which includes lobed fins that resemble limbs. Gombessas are found in deep waters around the world and are believed to be living fossils, representing an ancient group of fish that evolved over 400 million years ago. They are carnivores and feed on a variety of fish, crustaceans, and squid.

Goosefish

The Goosefish, also known as the Monkfish, is a deep-sea fish that is found in the Atlantic Ocean. These fish are named for their large, gaping mouths and are known for their unique method of catching prey. Goosefish lie in wait on the ocean floor and use a specialized lure on their head to attract prey towards their jaws. Once a fish or crustacean is within range, the Goosefish can quickly snap its jaws shut and swallow the prey whole. They are carnivores and feed on a variety of fish and crustaceans.

Gopher Rockfish

The Gopher Rockfish is a marine fish that is found along the Pacific coast of North America. These fish are named for their large, rounded heads and are often caught by recreational anglers. Gopher Rockfish are found in rocky reef habitats and are known for their ability to blend in with their surroundings, making them difficult to spot. They are carnivores and feed on a variety of invertebrates and small fish.

Gourami

Gouramis are a family of freshwater fish that are native to Asia and Africa. These fish are named for their distinctive shape, which includes a long, cylindrical body and a labyrinth organ that allows them to breathe air from the surface. Gouramis are popular aquarium fish due to their vibrant colors and interesting behaviors, such as bubble-nesting. They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including small invertebrates and plant matter.

Grass Carp

The Grass Carp, also known as the White Amur, is a freshwater fish that is native to East Asia but has been introduced to many parts of the world as a biological control for aquatic plants. These fish are named for their ability to consume large amounts of vegetation, including weeds and algae. Grass Carp are herbivores and feed almost exclusively on plant matter.

Graveldiver

The Graveldiver, also known as the Indian Glassy Fish, is a freshwater fish that is native to India. These fish are named for their transparent bodies, which allow their internal organs to be seen. Graveldivers are bottom-dwelling fish that are known for their love of hiding in the substrate. They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including small invertebrates and plant matter.

Grayling

The Grayling is a freshwater fish that is native to the northern hemisphere. These fish are named for their gray coloration and are popular with anglers for their beauty and fighting spirit. Grayling are found in clear, cold streams and are adapted to life in fast-moving water. They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including insects, crustaceans, and plant matter.

Gray Mullet

The Gray Mullet, also known as the Flathead Mullet, is a marine fish that is found in coastal waters around the world. These fish are named for their gray coloration and flat heads. Gray Mullets are bottom-dwelling fish that are often caught by anglers using bait or lures. They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including small invertebrates and plant matter.

Gray Reef Shark

The Gray Reef Shark is a marine fish that is found in the Indo-Pacific region. These fish are named for their gray coloration and are often found in coral reef habitats. Gray Reef Sharks are apex predators and are known for their aggressive behavior towards humans. They are carnivores and feed on a variety of fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods.

Great White Shark

The Great White Shark is a marine fish that is found in coastal waters around the world. These fish are named for their white underbelly and are one of the largest predatory fish in the ocean. Great White Sharks are apex predators and are known for their ability to hunt large marine mammals such as seals and sea lions. They are also known to scavenge on dead whales and other marine animals. Great White Sharks are often feared by humans due to their reputation as man-eaters, but attacks on humans are rare.

Green Swordtail

The Green Swordtail is a freshwater fish that is native to Mexico and Central America. These fish are named for the long, sword-like extension on their tails. Green Swordtails are popular aquarium fish due to their hardiness and peaceful temperament. They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including small invertebrates and plant matter.

Greeneye

The Greeneye, also known as the Bigeye Scad, is a marine fish that is found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. These fish are named for their large, round eyes and are often used as bait for larger predatory fish. Greeneyes are schooling fish that are adapted to life in open water. They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including plankton and small fish.

Greenling

Greenlings are a family of marine fish that are found in the Pacific Ocean. These fish are named for their green coloration and are popular with anglers for their fighting spirit. Greenlings are bottom-dwelling fish that are often found in rocky reef habitats. They are carnivores and feed on a variety of invertebrates and small fish.

Grenadier

Grenadiers are a family of marine fish that are found in deep waters around the world. These fish are named for their elongated bodies and are often caught as bycatch by commercial fishermen. Grenadiers are adapted to life in the deep ocean and are able to withstand the high pressures and low temperatures found at great depths. They are carnivores and feed on a variety of fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods.

Green Spotted Puffer

The Green Spotted Puffer is a freshwater fish that is native to Southeast Asia. These fish are named for their green coloration and distinctive spots. Green Spotted Puffers are popular aquarium fish due to their unique appearance and interesting behaviors, such as inflating themselves when threatened. They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including small invertebrates and plant matter.

Ground Shark

Ground Sharks are a family of marine fish that are found in coastal waters around the world. These fish are named for their habit of spending most of their time on or near the ocean floor. Ground Sharks are a diverse group of fish that includes species such as the Sandbar Shark and the Nurse Shark. They are carnivores and feed on a variety of fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods.

Grouper

Groupers are a family of marine fish that are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. These fish are named for their large, round bodies and are popular with anglers for their size and fighting spirit. Groupers are bottom-dwelling fish that are often found in coral reef habitats. They are carnivores and feed on a variety of fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods.

Grunion

The Grunion is a marine fish that is found in the eastern Pacific Ocean. These fish are named for their unusual spawning behavior, which involves coming ashore to lay their eggs on sandy beaches during high tide. Grunion are an important part of the coastal ecosystem and are a popular target for recreational anglers. They are carnivores and feed on a variety of small invertebrates.

Grunt

Grunt fish are a family of marine fish that are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. These fish are named for the grunting sound they make when disturbed. Grunts are schooling fish that  are often found in coral reef habitats. They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including small invertebrates and algae.

Grunter

Grunter fish are a family of marine and freshwater fish that are found in Africa, Asia, and Australia. These fish are named for the grunting sound they make when caught or handled. Grunters are bottom-dwelling fish that are often found in sandy or muddy habitats. They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including small invertebrates and plant matter.

Grunt Sculpin

The Grunt Sculpin is a marine fish that is found in the North Pacific Ocean. These fish are named for their grunting sound and their resemblance to sculpin fish. Grunt Sculpins are bottom-dwelling fish that are often found in rocky reef habitats. They are carnivores and feed on a variety of invertebrates and small fish.

Gudgeon

Gudgeons are a family of freshwater fish that are found in Europe, Asia, and North America. These fish are named for their slender shape and are often used as bait for larger predatory fish. Gudgeons are adaptable fish that can live in a variety of habitats, from fast-moving streams to slow-moving ponds. They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including small invertebrates and plant matter.

Guitarfish

Guitarfish are a family of marine fish that are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. These fish are named for their guitar-like shape and are often caught as bycatch by commercial fishermen. Guitarfish are bottom-dwelling fish that are often found in sandy or muddy habitats. They are carnivores and feed on a variety of fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods.

Gulf Menhaden

Gulf Menhaden are a species of marine fish that are found in the Gulf of Mexico. These fish are an important food source for larger predatory fish and are also used for bait by recreational anglers. Gulf Menhaden are filter feeders and consume phytoplankton and small zooplankton.

Gulper Eel

The Gulper Eel, also known as the Pelican Eel, is a deep-sea fish that is found in all the world’s oceans. These fish are named for their large, expandable mouth and are able to swallow prey that is larger than their own body. Gulper Eels are adapted to life in the deep ocean and are able to withstand the high pressures and low temperatures found at great depths. They are carnivores and feed on a variety of fish and crustaceans.

Gulper

The Gulper, also known as the Swallowtail Anglerfish, is a marine fish that is found in the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. These fish are named for their large, expandable mouth and their resemblance to anglerfish. Gulpers are bottom-dwelling fish that are often found in deep water habitats. They are carnivores and feed on a variety of fish and cephalopods.

Gunnel

Gunnels are a family of marine fish that are found in shallow waters around the world. These fish are named for their long, slender shape and are often found hiding in crevices or under rocks. Gunnels are carnivores and feed on a variety of invertebrates, such as crustaceans and mollusks.

Guppy

The Guppy, also known as the Millions Fish, is a freshwater fish that is native to South America. These fish are named for their popularity in the aquarium trade and their ability to reproduce rapidly. Guppies are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including algae, small invertebrates, and even their own offspring in some cases.

Gurnard

Gurnards are a family of marine fish that are found in shallow waters around the world. These fish are named for the grunting sound they make when caught or handled. Gurnards have spiny, bony heads and are bottom-dwelling fish that are often found in sandy or muddy habitats. They are carnivores and feed on a variety of invertebrates, such as crustaceans and mollusks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the world of fish that start with G is truly a wonder to behold. From the glittering scales of the golden shiner to the ghostly appearance of the goblin shark, each species has its own unique charm that sets it apart from the rest. Whether you’re exploring the depths of the ocean or the calm waters of a local stream, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in the world of fish that start with G. So, take some time to appreciate the beauty and diversity of these magnificent creatures, and who knows? You might just be inspired to dive in and explore the world of fish even further!