From garden ponds filled with Koi Carp to the humble goldfish bowl (although, goldfish need far more space than a bowl can offer) –Britain is a nation of fish lovers.
Around 10 per cent of British households own pet fish – that means they are the third most popular animal after cats and dogs.
There’s loads 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 interesting finned friends.
One think you should be aware of is that while many of the most popular fish, such as the Neon Tetra, need a heated tank, others are more than happy to chill in a cold water aquarium (although you’ll still need a filtration system to keep them in tiptop fishy-shape).
Here are 13 amazing species of fish perfect to populate an unheated aquarium.
5. Zebra Danio
Another staple of community tropical fish aquariums, the Zebra Danio is a hardy and energetic breed that are happy to live in cooler waters. Named after their distinctive striped patternation, they are native to South Asia. | Canva/Getty Images
6. Weather Loach
Also known at the Dojo Loach, the Weather Loach is so named for its ability to sense barometric pressure changes - frantically swimming or standing on end when a storm is approaching. Native to East Asia, they are playful and quirky bottom-dwellers that enjoy cooler water with plenty of hidey-holes. | Canva/Getty Image
7. Rainbow Shiner
Native to North America, Rainbow Shiners shimmer with iridescent blues and purples. They require cool, clean water and do best in schools with good flow and oxygenation. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Ricefish
Also known as the Glassfish, the Ricefish gets its name from the fact that it can be found swimming around Asian rice paddy fields. Tougher than they look, they don't mind cool water and are the perfect fish for those who only have room for a small aquarium. | Canva/Getty Images