Some of the most popular cold water fish.placeholder image
Some of the most popular cold water fish. | Canva/Getty Images

Cold Water Tropical Fish: Here are 11 colourful fish that thrive in unheated tanks - from Goldfish to Rainbow Shiner

No heated tank? No problem!

From garden ponds filled with Koi Carp to the humble goldfish bowl (although, as we’ll find out later, goldfish need far more space than a bowl can offer) –Britain is a nation of fish lovers.

Around 10 per cent of British households own pet fish – that means they are the third most popular animal after cats and dogs.

There’s loads 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 think you should be aware of is that while many of the most popular fish, such as the Neon Tetra, need a heated tank, others are more than happy to chill in a cold water aquarium (although you’ll still need a filtration system to keep them in tiptop fishy-shape).

Here are 11 amazing species of fish perfect to populate an unheated aquarium.

Make sure you don't miss a moment of breaking news from across Scotland by signing up to our free newsletter here.

Related topics:
Dare to be Honest
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice