Fish are near the top of the popularity chart

Fish are the third most popular pet in the United States, with nearly 12% of American households owning at least one. Owners say they make attractive home decor, as well as that maintaining fish, is a fun and easy hobby.

Certain breeds are more popular than others. Saltwater fish are less common than freshwater, perhaps because the cost of maintaining freshwater fish tends to be much lower on average, according to Aquarium Architecture.