From garden ponds filled with Koi Carp to the humble goldfish bowl – the UK is a nation of fish lovers.
The Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA) say there are an incredible five million indoor fish tanks in Britain.
Around 10 per cent of British households own pet fish – making them the third most popular animal to welcome into our homes after cats and dogs.
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.
It’s important to ensure that you get the right fish for your particular aquarium or your pets will not be happy and healthy.
And while the size of tank is only limited by your budget and availably space in your home, there are plenty of beautiful fish that will thrive in a smaller tank.
So, here are 13 of the best species of fish for aquarists (the posh name for people who maintain aquariums) who only have room for a small tank.
9. Least Killifish
Used to living in stagnent, muddy water in their native North America, a clean five litre tank is positively luxurious for the Least Killifish. There's no problem with space either - they are the seventh smallest breed of fish in the world. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Neon Tetra
The Neon Tetra is the UK's (and probably the world's) most popular tropical fish and a great choice for a small tank. The tiny fish's bright red and blue colouring and ease of care are a winning combination for beginners. They originally come from backwater streams in the Amazon basin in South America. They are schooling fish so there should be a minimum of six in a tank - although with a small aquarium you'll not be wanting that many more. | Canva/Getty Images
11. Cardinal Tetra
Almost identical to the Neon Tetra, but with a distinctive red lower half of the body and an even more vibrant blue stripe, the Cardinal Tetra is slightly less popular - and more expensive - because it is more difficult to breed in captivity. It's still just as easy to look after though - and still ideal for those with a smaller aquarium. | Canva/Getty Images
12. Ember Tetra
If you are looking for a decent-sized school of fish to dart around your small tank then the tiny Ember Tetra is worth consideration. Smaller than other tretras they are easy to look after and provide great colour for your aquarium. | Canva/Getty Images