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 interesting finned friends.
One thing you should be aware of is that some fish favour the bottom of the tank, while others are happier nearer the surface - combine the two and you’ll have a well-balanced aquarium.
Here are 10 of the best and brightest top and bottom dwellers.
13. Wrestling Halfbeak
The slender and unusual body of the Wrestling Halfbeak makes a quirky addition to a community aquarium. They get their name from their elongated lower jaw and happily swim around close to the surface. They are a peaceful fish that will get on with the majority of tankmates. | Canva/Getty Images
14. Guppy
One of the world's most popular - and colourful - fropical fish, the Guppies are lively, brightly colored fish that may visit other parts of their aquarium home, but are happiest near the top of the water. They’re prolific breeders - don't be surprised if you wake up one morning to numerous baby Guppies - and a perfect fish for complete beginners. | Canva/Getty Images
15. Endler’s Livebearer
Endler’s Livebearers are small, colorful, and active surface-dwellers. Their vibrant patterns brighten any aquarium, and their peaceful nature allows them to thrive in community tanks, where they tend to stay near the top. Their dimunuative size means they are the ideal top-dweller choice for those with smaller tanks. | Canva/Getty Images
16. Zebra Danio
Zebra Danios are hardy, fast-swimming fish that love darting across the top layer. Their zebra-like stripes and energetic behavior make them entertaining and easy-to-keep top-level residents. | Canva/Getty Images