The city of Rome is prohibiting goldfish bowls, after animal rights activists say the bowls are harmful to fish.

The classic spherical fish bowls are banned under a new by-law. It also prevents fish or other animals being given away as fairground prizes.

Council person Monica Cirinna says, "It's good to do whatever we can for our animals who in exchange for a little love fill our existence with their attention. The civilization of a city can also be measured by this."

Critics say the round bowls cause fish to go blind. Many fish experts also say round bowls provide insufficient oxygen for fish.