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.
According to the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association there are an incredible five million indoor fish tanks in Britain - that’s around 10 per cent of British households who own fish, making them the third most popular pet after dogs and cats.
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.
When it comes to price, some rare fish can cost tens of thousands of pounds and will be out of reach of all but the wealthiest aquariasts (the posh name for people who maintain aquariums).
Luckily for most of us though, some of the most popular - and most beautiful - fish cost very little.
Here are 10 of the most inexpensive.

9. X-Ray Tetra
Also known as the Pristilla Tetra, the X-Ray Tetra gets its more common name from their remarkable transparent bodies. They are another tetra perfect for beginners thank to their ease of care and non-aggressive nature. You should be able to buy them for about £2.50-£3.50 each. | Canva/Getty Images

10. Kuhli Loach
Proof that even the more unusual looking tropical fish don't need to break the bank, the Kuhli Loach is a slender, eel-like bottom dweller. They are quite shy and mostly nocturnal but are excellent scavengers and will help keep your aquarium clean. Expect to pay around £3.25-£4.50 each for juvenile fish. | Canva/Getty Images

