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 colourful and interesting finned friends.
But if you’re setting up an aquarium for the first time there are some fish that experts recommend due to their ease of care and low prices.
So, here are the 15 best species of fish for novice aquarists (the posh name for people who maintain aquariums).
9. Swordtail
No prizes for guessing how the Swordtail got its name - with its distinctive tail differentiating it from its close cousin the Platy. Selective breeding means they are available in a wide variety of colours including black, silver, orange, red, and mixed patterns. They are great for beginners as they are a community fish, meaning they get on well with other species. The only exception is males can be territorial with other males - so maybe only add one to your tank. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Kuhli Loach
Native to the island of Java in Indonesia, the colourful eel-like Kuhli Loach tend to hide away during the day - coming out in the evening to scavenge food from the bottom of the tank. Easy to look after, just make sure they have plenty of hidey-holes to retire to. | Canva/Getty Images
11. Red-tailed Black Shark
Despite its name, the Red-tailed Black Shark is more closely related to the humble Carp than the Great White. Critically endangered in its native Thailand, this fish is common in aquariums, where they are all captively bred. Their one drawback is that they can be aggressive against fellow Red-tailed Black Sharks - something to look out for. | Canva/Getty Images
12. Endler's Livebearer
These tiny Guppy-esque fish are simple to breed and even easier to take care of. Their diminuative size means they are a great choice for first-time aquariasts who only have room for a small tank. Sociable wee fish, you'll be wanting a small shoal of them. | Canva/Getty Images