From garden ponds filled with Koi Carp to the humble goldfish bowl (although goldfish need far more room to thrive - replace it with a tank) – 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 equates to around 10 per cent of British households owning pet fish – putting them third after cats and dogs when it comes to most popular pet.
There’s lots 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.
But you’ll definitely want a few bottom-feeders in your freshwater tank - fish (and other creatures) that will hoover up any food that sinks to the bottom and keep algae under control to make sure the water stays crystal clear.
Here are 15 of the best that should top your list.
9. Hillstream Loach
Looing every inch like a miniature stingray, Hill Stream Loaches make for a dramatic addition to any tank, clinging on to glass and rock alike. They thrive in strong water flow and cooler, oxygen-rich tanks, where they will happily graze on algae-covered surfaces like a wee cow with gills. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Glass Catfish
The Glass Catfish is a remarkable creature - being as they are nearly completely transparent. They'll venture to the middle of the tank but will spend at least half their time at the bottom. They like to be kept in schools and need a clean tank with hiding spaces, gentle flow, and dim lighting. | Canva/Getty Images
11. Bumblebee Goby
And the award for cutest bottom-dweller goes to...the adorable Bumblebee Goby. These wee fish make it look like you have bees shooting around the bottom of your aquarium. They can be picked on by other fish so best have a few of them so they can form a gang to protect each other. | Canva/Getty Images
12. Pictus Catfish
Energetic and striking fish with incredible long whiskers, Pictus Catfish are active bottom dwellers that are never done with tifying up the tank. They can grow quite big, so need a larger aquarium, and are particularly industrious at night. | Canva/Getty Images