From garden ponds filled with Koi Carp to the humble goldfish bowl – the UK is a nation of fish lovers.
And the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA) say there are an incredible five million indoor fish tanks in Britain.
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.
One thing to consider is that some fish tend to live considerably longer lives than others - the aggressive Betta often won’t reach its third birthday.
Here’s are the 13 breeds likely to live to a ripe old age.
1. Australian Lungfish - over 100 years
Also known as the Queensland Lungfish, the Australian Lungfish is a remarkable creature in many ways - including that it can survive out of water and that it's been around for over 380 million year, making it a 'living fossil'. Fascinating, if demanding, pets - they can live for over 100 years. | Canva/Getty Images
2. Aftican Lungfish - up to 50 years
The African Lungfish doesn't live as long as its Australian cousin, but it does have an extra trick up its sleeve - it can survive for months burrowed away in dries mud when there's no water. Along with their ability to lve for over two years without eating, it means that they reportedly live for up to 50 years. | Canva/Getty Images
3. Koi Carp - 25-50 years
Native to Japan and China, koi are colorful carp most commonly bred for ornamental ponds (just make sure to protect them from local cats). With proper care, they can easily live for over 30 years, with some apparently reaching the half century. No wonder they symbolize longevity in Asian culture. | Canva/Getty Images
4. Goldfish - up to 43 years
Probably the world's most popular aquarium fish, the Goldfish comes in a whole array of sizes, shapes and colours (not only gold, but also combinations of white, yellow, orange, red, brown, and black). Don't be tempted to pop one on a tiny bowl, these fish may be hardy but still need plenty of space and filtration to thrive. Originally from China, you can expect them to live for 10-25 years if you look after them correctly, with the record being 43 years. | Canva/Getty Images