From garden ponds filled with Koi Carp to the humble goldfish bowl (although goldfish need larger tanks to thrive) – the UK is a nation of fish lovers.
According to the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association there are a remarkable 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.
Of course one of the things that attract people to tropical fish is their bright colours.
These serve a number of functions - including a warning to predators to stay away, signal to other species, blend in with colourful coral, or to attracting a mate.
So, here are 13 of the most colourful fish for tropical freshwater aquariums.
5. Clown Loach
Originating on the Indonesian islands of Sumatra and Borneo, the Clown Loach is a popular aquarium fish thanks to its distinctive tiger-like orange-and-black stripes. They are highly sociable and commonly enjoy playing with other fish. | Canva/Getty Images
6. Guppy
With it's alternative name of the Rainbow Fish, it's no wonder that the Guppy makes this list. They have been selectively bred to come in a range of colours - all stunning. Originally from northeast South America, they give birth to live babies. Many an aquarium owner has woken up to find numerous tiny baby Guppies in their tank. | Canva/Getty Images
7. Boeseman's Rainbowfish
Native to the lakes of Indonesia, Boeseman's Rainbowfish is famous for its stunning gradiated colouration, progressing from a metallic blue front half to a golden-yellow back. A peaceful fish, they thrive in community aquariums. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Paradise Fish
Native to East Asia, Paradise Fish have long fins and bold coloration in blues, reds, and oranges. Hardy and intelligent, you have to be a wee bit careful about the males - who can be territorial in smaller tanks. | Canva/Getty Images