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.

13. Crystal Bee Shrimp
They may not be fish, but tiny Crystal Bee Shrimp make a great addition to any aquarium. It's fascinating to see then scuttling around the bottom of the tank and they don't tend to bother the fish. | Canva/Getty Images

