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.

13. Longnose Hawkfish
You certainly won't confuse the Longnose Hawkfish with any other fish, thanks to its distinctive red-and-white checkered pattern and an elongated snout. They tend to spend most of their day chilling on coral or rocks but can't share a tank with small fish, which they consider to be a tasty snack. | Canva/Getty Images

