It is estimated that 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.
From garden ponds filled with Koi Carp to the humble goldfish bowl (although goldfish really need far more space to thrive) – the UK is a nation of fish lovers.
And the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA) say there are an incredible five million indoor fish tanks in Britain.
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 - both for freshwater and saltwater tanks.
But some fish top the charts when it comes to popularity amongst aquarists (the fancy name for people who maintain aquariums).
Here are the 13 species of reef fish that are most commonly found in saltwater aquariums in living rooms around the country.
5. Yellow Tang
The Blue Tang's close cousin the Yellow Tang is also a popular choice for those with larger tanks - with their remarkable bright yellow colouration. They are largely peaceful herbivores that thrive on a diet rich in marine algae. Due to their popularity, they are often captive-bred, making them a more sustainable choice for hobbyists. | Canva/Getty Images
6. Royal Gramma
This peaceful, vibrant purple-and-yellow fish thrives in reef aquariums. It prefers caves and crevices for hiding and gets along well with other non-aggressive tank mates. This is one fish that will brighten up any salt water aquarium. | Canva/Getty Images
7. Banggai Cardinalfish
Another great choice for beginners is the Banggai Cardinalfish - a striking black-and-white striped fish with elegant fins that is a peaceful and hardy addition to aquariums. They are slow moving and won't bother any of their tankmates, although are nocturnal so like an aquarium with subdued lighting. They like being kept with a group of fellow-Cardinalfish who they will form a family group with. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Six-Line Wrasse
The energetic, striped Six-Line (count them!) Wrasse is a handy fish to have around - as it controls pests like bristle worms. It’s reef-safe but can be semi-aggressive. You'll need to be sure to provide live rock and hiding spaces to match their natural behavior. | Canva/Getty Images