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.
5. Oscar - up to 20 years
Native to the Amazon Basin in South America, Oscars are intelligent, territorial cichlids that - remarkably - are able to recognise their owners. With the required large tank and good filtration they can live for up to 20 years in captivity. | Canva/Getty Images
6. Bichir - up to 20 years
Originating from slow African rivers and lakes, bichirs are primitive, eel-like fish. They breathe air so need secure tanks, as they may escape when they pop up to the surface. These ancient creatures tend to live from 15-20 years. | Canva/Getty Images
7. Discus - up to 18 years
Also known as the Pompadour Fish, the Discus is a native of the Amazon River in Brazil and is highly sought after by aquariasts due to the dazzling array of colours different fish exhibit - from vivid orange to metallic turqouise. They are a long-living breed that can be expected to reach 10-18-years-of-age. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Angelfish - up to 15 years
There are three different species of Angelfish that are commonly kept in aquariums, all of which originate from the Amazon and Orinoco Basins of South America. All have similarly long lifespans - living for up to 15 years (although more commonly 10) if cared for properly. | Canva/Getty Images