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.
13. Gold Barb
Tough and attractive, Gold Barbs are social, cool-water fish native to the Red River basin in southeast Asia. Their shimmering gold coloration brightens any tank, and they do best in small schools with plenty of swimming space. | Canva/Getty Images