In the mystical world of Feng Shui, fish are not just aquatic creatures but revered symbols of abundance, prosperity, and good health.
Among the good health symbols, Feng Shui fish hold a special place, swimming gracefully through water and symbolizing a constant flow of opportunities.
The Feng Shui Fish, with their vivacious colors and dynamic movement, embody energy and vitality. This article will explore different types of Feng Shui fish, their meanings, proper placements, and how they relate to period 9 Feng Shui, a phase of transformation and new beginnings.
Table of Contents
Types of Feng Shui Fish
5 Prestigious Types of Feng Shui Fish:
- Blood Parrot (血鹦鹉鱼): Known as the aristocrat among Feng Shui fish and referred to as Yin Yang fish (阴阳鱼) by masters, this non-reproductive hybrid of red devil fish and purple parrotfish resembles a flame, is brightly colored, and has a lifespan of around 7 years.
- Red Dragon Fish (红龙鱼): Dark red with dragon-like whiskers, this fish is esteemed for its ability to avert disasters and bring good luck. It’s considered a top-tier Feng Shui fish.
- Silver Arowana (银龙鱼): Often a substitute for red dragon fish, the Silver Arowana is native to Australia and symbolizes wealth accumulation.
- Black Goldfish (黑金鱼): A prestigious type of goldfish, often seen as a symbol of protection against evil spirits and misfortunes.
- Flowerhorn Cichlid (花罗汉鱼): Known for its vibrant colors and distinctively shaped head, it’s considered a sign of prosperity and luck in Feng Shui practice.
5 Common Types of Feng Shui Fish:
- Goldfish (金鱼): A decorative carp symbolizing wealth attraction and longevity.
- Rainbow Fish (彩虹鱼): Known to relieve fatigue and invigorate spirits, symbolizing loyalty and harmony in relationships.
- Koi Fish (锦鲤): Commonly considered good for luck, symbolizing nobility with its multicolored appearance.
- Zebra Fish (斑马鱼): Valued for its unique appearance, it’s seen as a symbol of balance and harmony.
- Guppy Fish (孔雀鱼): Popular for its adaptability, the Guppy is often linked to success and growth in personal and professional life.
Types of Fish to Avoid Keeping
Fish with malicious or evil energy, such as sharks, piranhas, fighting fish, etc., are not suitable for keeping at home. If you want to use them to ward off evil, you can keep black mollies or black-colored fish.
Feng Shui Fish: How Many to Keep?
The number of Feng Shui fish to keep is an elaborate subject, closely tied to Chinese Feng Shui principles and various concepts, such as “one-six water,” “four-nine as prosperous gold,” and sayings like “six-six as smooth sailing,” “nine-nine as heaven.” The meanings for the number of fish are as follows:
- One fish: Brings wealth
- Two fish: Not good for wealth
- Three fish: Not good for wealth
- Four fish: Considered lucky
- Five fish: Not good for wealth
- Six fish: Beneficial for wealth
- Seven fish: Considered lucky
- Eight fish: Considered lucky
- Nine fish: Brings wealth
- Ten or more fish: Considered by individual numbers, like twelve is considered as two, fifteen as five.
Specific numbers and colors of fish should also be considered according to the element and zodiac sign. For example:
- Water Element (Rat, Pig): One light (white) color, six dark (red or black) color
- Fire Element (Snake, Horse): Seven light (white) color, two dark (red or black) color
- Wood Element (Tiger, Rabbit): Three light (white) color, eight dark (red or black) color
- Metal Element (Monkey, Rooster): Nine light (white) color, four dark (red or black) color
- Earth Element (Ox, Dragon, Goat, Dog): Five light (white) color, ten dark (red or black) color
Specific combinations for Rat, Pig: 1,6; Snake, Horse: 2,7; Monkey, Rooster: 4,9,5; Dragon, Dog, Ox, Sheep: 5,10,4,9 are also essential for understanding the complex art of keeping Feng Shui fish.
The practice of keeping these fish can be a detailed and enriching study, adding beauty, harmony, and prosperity to a home or business environment.
Feng Shui Fish Tank Placement and Direction
Placement and direction in Feng Shui are vital considerations, ensuring that the energy flow aligns with specific intentions. In the context of Feng Shui fish, both the type of fish and its location within a space are essential to maximizing its effects.
Here are the different aspects to consider:
Aquarium Placement
- Living Room: The living room is often considered the ideal place for an aquarium, promoting a calming effect and positive energy flow.
- Avoid Bedrooms: The active energy of the fish may disrupt the peaceful energy needed for sleep. Avoid placing the aquarium in bedrooms.
- Entrance Area: An aquarium near the entrance can attract positive energies, enhancing opportunities and wealth prospects.
- Avoid Certain Locations: Care should be taken to avoid placing the aquarium in specific unfavorable areas, such as:
- Close to electrical appliances: such as above the television, next to the speakers.
- Places where direct sunlight can reach.
- Sloping or unstable places: such as unsteady shelves.
- The head of the bed.
These locations can interfere with the proper energy flow and the stability of the aquarium, leading to potential negative consequences in Feng Shui practices.
Directional Placement
- Southeast: Known as the wealth and abundance sector, the southeast is the traditional Feng Shui direction for placing Arowana fish or Goldfish.
- North: Representing the career area, the placement of Koi fish in the north can boost professional growth and opportunities.
- South: If fame and reputation are of concern, placing a Betta fish in the south can bring strength and recognition.
Importance of Water
- Flow and Movement: Water flow should be gentle, neither too fast nor too stagnant. The flow direction should ideally be inward to attract energy.
- Cleanliness: Regular maintenance of water quality reflects clarity in life and ensures the good health and vibrancy of the fish.
- Water Level: The water level must be balanced. Too much water can create an overwhelming energy, while too little may lead to deficiencies in various life aspects.
Complementing with Other Feng Shui Elements
- Wood Element: Including live plants in the aquarium nurtures growth and is aligned with the wood element.
- Earth Element: Stones and pebbles anchor stability, grounding the energy.
- Metal Element: Goldfish, particularly in a metal container, can enhance the metallic energy associated with wealth.
Period 9 Feng Shui
In Period 9 Feng Shui, the emphasis on wealth and fame becomes more pronounced. Considering the number 9’s significance in Chinese culture, a careful alignment with nine fish (e.g., eight goldfish and one black fish for protection) can be highly beneficial.
Aligning with Zodiac Signs
- Lucky Signs in 2024: Understanding the alignment of fish with the most luckiest zodiac sign in 2024 can bring personalized benefits.
- Year-Specific Placement: Every year, different sectors become more auspicious or inauspicious. Adapting fish placement accordingly can enhance or neutralize energies.
Feng Shui Fish Aquarium
An aquarium filled with colorful and lively fish is more than a delightful visual treat; it’s a powerful Feng Shui tool that can usher in prosperity, good health, and positive energy.
But the choice and number of fish, as well as the presence of one black fish, are grounded in deep symbolism.
Here’s how to harness the maximum benefits:
Choosing the Right Fish
Different fish species are associated with various attributes in Feng Shui:
- Goldfish: Symbolizes wealth and prosperity.
- Koi Fish: Represents perseverance and success.
- Arowana Fish: Known as the “Golden Dragon Fish,” it’s a symbol of strength and good fortune.
- Betta Fish: Emphasizes independence and originality.
Number of Fish Based on Symbolism
The number of fish in a Feng Shui aquarium carries significant symbolism and should be chosen with care:
- One Fish: Symbolizes a strong, independent energy. It can be used to boost personal growth.
- Three Fish: Represents the holy trinity of Heaven, Earth, and Mankind, promoting harmony.
- Five Fish: A powerful number in Feng Shui, often used to balance the five elements of nature.
- Seven Fish: Signifies abundance and prosperity in all areas of life.
- Nine Fish: Connects with Period 9 Feng Shui, symbolizing universal love and eternal life.
Enhancing Feng Shui with One Black Fish
- Symbolism of Black Fish: The black fish, typically a Mollie or Goldfish, is a symbol of protection. It absorbs negative energy, guarding the household or office from bad luck.
- Combination with Goldfish: A common Feng Shui practice is to have eight goldfish, symbolizing abundance, and one black fish for protection, making a total of nine.
- Replacement: If the black fish dies, it’s believed to have shielded the owner from misfortune. It should be replaced to continue offering protection.
Aquarium Design and Maintenance
- Shapes and Sizes: Choose a tank shape that complements the room. A rectangular or round tank is generally preferred in Feng Shui. Avoid sharp edges. Additionally, the fish tank should only be a quarter of the size of the living room’s width. A square shape is preferable. It’s not suitable to keep fish in a high-legged fish tank, as the top-heavy design makes it difficult to gather wealth energy.
- Location: As detailed above, placement matters. It can be in the southeast for wealth, north for career growth, etc. Additionally, the fish tank should not be placed higher than a person’s head. If the fish tank is placed next to the living room’s seating, and the highest water level is taller than the person sitting beside it, it’s referred to as ‘water pouring over the head’—it implies that the person’s psychology can easily be oppressed, inadvertently leading to illnesses or mental decline.
- Water Quality: Keep the water clean and oxygenated. Stagnant or dirty water can attract negative energy.
- Plants and Decorations: Incorporate natural elements like plants, stones, and wood. They enhance the aquarium’s energy.
Feng Shui Fish Art and Decor
Feng Shui isn’t limited to live fish or aquariums; artwork and decor featuring fish also carry the same positive energy. Here’s how to incorporate Feng Shui fish into your interior design:
Choosing the Right Imagery
- Koi Fish Paintings: Often seen in pairs, Koi fish symbolize love and commitment. Hang paintings of Koi fish in the bedroom to enhance romantic relationships.
- Goldfish Sculptures: As symbols of wealth, they can be placed in the living room or office to attract prosperity.
- Arowana Statues: These can be used as powerful protectors in business environments.
Placement Guidelines
- Southeast Direction: To enhance wealth and abundance, place fish art in the southeast, a powerful Feng Shui direction for prosperity.
- Avoid Bathrooms and Kitchens: As in the case with real fish, avoid placing fish decor in these areas to maintain potency.
Combining with Other Symbols
- With Water Elements: Combine fish art with water symbols like fountains to enhance the flow of positive energy.
- With Chinese Coins: Pairing fish sculptures or paintings with Feng Shui Chinese coins can multiply financial luck.
Cultural and Historical Background
The use of fish in Feng Shui is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and history. Understanding the background provides insight into why fish have become such potent symbols.
Fish in Chinese Language and Literature
- Homophones: In Chinese, the word for fish, “鱼” (yú), is a homophone for “余,” meaning surplus or abundance. This linguistic connection has made fish a symbol of prosperity.
- Literary References: Fish have been used metaphorically in Chinese literature and poetry to depict freedom, resilience, and abundance.
Fish in Chinese Art and Craftsmanship
- Traditional Paintings: Fish are common subjects in traditional Chinese art, representing good luck, abundance, and happiness.
- Embroidery and Textiles: Fish designs are popular in Chinese textiles, symbolizing fertility and affluence.
Fish in Chinese Festivals and Rituals
- Chinese New Year: Fish dishes are essential during the Chinese New Year as they symbolize surplus and prosperity for the upcoming year.
- Wedding Ceremonies: Fish symbols are used in weddings to wish the newlyweds happiness and abundance.
Connection to Zodiac and Astrology
- Pisces in Chinese Astrology: Fish are also connected to the zodiac, especially in the context of lucky signs in 2024.
Common Misconceptions and Mistakes
Keeping Feng Shui fish can bring positive energies into your life, but it’s essential to be aware of common misconceptions and mistakes that might negate the benefits or even introduce negative effects.
Here are some areas to be cautious about:
Taboos When Keeping Feng Shui Fish
- Wrong Placement: Placing the fish tank or fish art in incorrect directions like bathrooms or kitchens can create energy imbalances.
- Improper Number of Fish: The specific number of fish in an aquarium is essential, with eight red or gold and one black fish being common. An incorrect number can offset balance.
- Dead Fish: Dead fish should be replaced immediately, as they can bring bad luck.
Side Effects of Misuse
- Financial Instability: If a fish dies or the tank is not maintained properly, it can lead to financial instability or loss.
- Health Issues: Dirty or neglected aquariums can breed bacteria, affecting the fish’s health, symbolizing poor health for the owner.
- Relationship Problems: Improperly placed fish symbols, especially those representing love and commitment like Koi, can lead to discord in relationships.
Warning Signs Based on the Fish
- Change in Behavior: If the fish become listless or overly aggressive, it might indicate an imbalance in the home’s energy.
- Fish Sickness: Sick fish can be a warning sign for health issues within the family.
- Fish Death: A sudden death might signal upcoming financial problems or other negative occurrences.
How to Avoid Mistakes
- Regular Maintenance: Ensure the fish tank is clean, and the fish are healthy. Regular maintenance prevents negative energies from building up.
- Consult a Feng Shui Expert: If in doubt, consulting a Feng Shui expert can help ensure that everything is in harmony, especially concerning period 9 Feng Shui or other specific Feng Shui practices.
- Respect the Symbolism: Recognize that Feng Shui fish are not merely decorative but carry significant symbolism. Treating them with respect and understanding their meaning is crucial.
Who Can Keep What Type of Feng Shui Fish
Different types of Feng Shui fish may resonate with different individuals, based on their goals, zodiac signs, or personal preferences.
- Arowana (金龙鱼): Often termed as the “Gold Dragon Fish”, it’s particularly popular among businesspersons and those seeking financial success.
- Koi Fish: Symbolizing perseverance and determination, it may be suitable for those pursuing goals and overcoming obstacles. It is also considered one of the lucky signs in 2024.
- Goldfish: Representing abundance and happiness, goldfish can be kept by anyone seeking joy and prosperity, particularly during the most luckiest zodiac sign in 2024.
- Beta Fish: Known for its vibrant colors, it can be kept by those looking for creativity and inspiration.
- Black Mollies: Used for protection and to ward off negative energy. Suitable for those feeling vulnerable or in need of safeguarding.
Have You Chosen Your Feng Shui Fish?
Feng Shui fish is more than just an ornamental addition to your space; it symbolizes a profound connection to ancient wisdom, prosperity, health, and overall well-being. However, the choice of fish, its placement, and care all play a vital role in activating these energies.
As you contemplate incorporating Feng Shui fish into your home or office, reflect on what you seek to attract into your life. Are you aligned with the proper Feng Shui direction, and have you considered how this powerful symbol fits into your life in the coming year, especially with the transformations predicted in 2024?
Your fish could be more than just a decoration; it could be a catalyst for the change you seek.
What types of fish are commonly used in Feng Shui?
In Feng Shui, the most common types of fish used include Koi, Goldfish, and Arowana. Each species is believed to bring specific energies like prosperity, success, and harmony.
How many Feng Shui fish should be kept in an aquarium or pond?
Often, a combination of 8 gold or colorful fish and 1 black fish is preferred in Feng Shui. The number 8 symbolizes wealth, while the black fish is believed to absorb negative energy.
Where is the best position to place a Feng Shui fish tank in the home or office?
The ideal location for a Feng Shui fish tank is in the Southeast or North area of the space. The Southeast is associated with wealth, and the North represents career growth.
Can I use fake fish for Feng Shui purposes?
While real fish are preferred for their lively energy, artificial fish may be used as symbolic representations but lack the vitality that real fish bring to space.
Is there any specific care needed for Feng Shui fish?
Care for Feng Shui fish includes maintaining a clean tank, providing a balanced diet, and considering the placement according to Feng Shui principles. Careful attention to the wellbeing of the fish supports the positive energy they bring.
What do different colors of fish symbolize in Feng Shui?
In Feng Shui, different colors of fish have various meanings. For example, gold or red fish are associated with wealth and prosperity, while black fish help ward off negative energy.
2 Comments
Hello and thank you for your advice.
My fish tank is placed in the north area of my house which also happens to be my kitchen! But the fish tank is in the far north corner of my kitchen, far away from my stove!
What are your thoughts on this 🙏
Hi Corsa,
In Feng Shui, the North area of a home is associated with Career and Path in Life, and water elements like fish tanks can enhance the chi (energy flow) related to these aspects. Placing a fish tank in the North can be auspicious, as it’s believed to attract wealth and prosperity.
Having the fish tank in the far North corner of your kitchen, away from the stove, is generally good practice. The stove represents fire energy, and keeping a distance between the water element (fish tank) and fire element (stove) helps maintain balance and harmony in the energy of your space.
It’s also beneficial that your fish tank is not positioned directly in the kitchen’s busy area, as peace and stability around the water element are encouraged in Feng Shui. You might want to ensure that the water is always clean and the fish are healthy, as this is said to reflect on the energy and prosperity they attract.
– Chen Wei