From garden ponds filled with Koi Carp to the humble goldfish bowl (although goldfish are far happier living in a larger tank) – the UK is a nation of fish lovers.
There are an remarkable five million indoor fish tanks in the UK alone, according to the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA).
That’s about 10 per cent of British households – making fish the third most popular pet after dogs and cats.
It’s a fascinating hobby, particularly for youngsters, and there are few more relaxing activities than watching fish slowly swim around their home.
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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 finned friends that will happily live in the corner of your living room.
Before you start filling your tank with whatever colourful fish that takes your fancy it’s worth doing your homework.
Some fish present a serious challenge to look after - being tremendously picky about food and conditions.
Meanwhile, others just need a clean tank with a heater, filtration and basic fish food to thrive.
Here are the 12 easiest freshwater tropical fish to look after.
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9. Harlequin Rasbora
The colourful Harlequin Rasbora is a native of Southeast Asia is a small fish that will form a dazzling shoal in your aquarium. Get up to 10 of them - they get on well with everyone and are happy to just eat basic fish flakes. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Red-tailed Black Shark
Despite its name, the Red-tailed Black Shark is more closely related to the humble Carp than the Great White. Critically endangered in its native Thailand, this fish is common in aquariums, where they are all captively bred. Their one drawback is that they can be aggressive against fellow Red-tailed Black Sharks - something to look out for. | Canva/Getty Images
11. Cardinal Tetra
Similar 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. | Canva/Getty Images
12. Cherry Barb
Another schooling fish, you'll want a minimum of six Cherry Barb in your tank to keep them happy. Native to Sri Lanka, keep the ratio at two females to every male to maintain a healthy hierarchy. It's easy to tell the difference as the male is deep red, compared to the female's browny red colour. | Canva/Getty Images