From garden ponds filled with Koi Carp to the humble goldfish bowl (although goldfish are far happier living in a larger tank) – the UK is a nation of fish lovers.
There are an remarkable five million indoor fish tanks in the UK alone, according to the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA).
That’s about 10 per cent of British households – making fish the third most popular pet after dogs and cats.
It’s a fascinating hobby, particularly for youngsters, and there are few more relaxing activities than watching fish slowly swim around their home.
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There’s plenty of choice when it comes to adding fish to (well prepared and correctly set up) home aquariums, with pet shops offering a bewildering range of finned friends that will happily live in the corner of your living room.
The first decision to make is whether you are going to pick a freshwater or saltwater tank - saltwater is a little more demanding - before choosing your fish breeds.
Of course one of the things that attract people to tropical fish is their bright colours.
These serve a number of functions - including a warning to predators to stay away, signal to other species, blend in with colourful coral, or to attracting a mate.
So, here are 12 of the most colourful fish for tropical freshwater aquariums.
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1. Discus
Also known as the Pompadour Fish, the Discus is a native of the Amazon River in Brazil and is highly sought after by aquariasts due to the dazzling array of colours different fish exhibit - from vivid orange to metallic turqouise. Rarer colours can go for eye-watering sums of money. There's an entire industry in Thailand dedicated to breeding these calm fish many consider to be the most beautiful of all species. | Canva/Getty Images
2. Boeseman's Rainbowfish
Native to the lakes of Indonesia, Boeseman's Rainbowfish is famous for its stunning gradiated colouration, progressing from a metallic blue front half to a golden-yellow back. A peaceful fish, they thrive in community aquariums. | Canva/Getty Images
3. Paradise Fish
Native to East Asia, Paradise Fish have long fins and bold coloration in blues, reds, and oranges. Hardy and intelligent, you have to be a wee bit careful about the males - who can be territorial in smaller tanks. | Canva/Getty Images
4. Peacock Gudgeon
Found in Papua New Guinea, the Peacock Gudgeon have electric blue bodies with red speckles and yellow underbellies - they certainly stand out! They are a chilled fish breed perfect for planted nano aquariums. | Canva/Getty Images