From garden ponds filled with Koi Carp to the humble goldfish bowl (although goldfish really need far more space to thrive) – the UK is a nation of fish lovers.
According to the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association there are an incredible five million indoor fish tanks in Britain - that’s around 10 per cent of British households who own fish, making them the third most popular pet after dogs and cats.
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 colourful and interesting finned friends.
Freshwater (as opposed to saltwater) tanks are the most common type of aquarium, with a multitude of species available to fill them with colour.
Here are the 17 most popular.
17. Kuhli Loach
You certainly won't be mixing up the Kuhli Loach with any other fish in your tank - thanks to its peculiar eel-like shape and striking black-and-orange patternation. They like to have plenty of hiding places so make sure to provide them with plants and rocks. | Canva/Getty Images