Goldfish

[edit] Overview

The Goldfish, in all its many forms, is an excellent aquarium or pond fish, but not for a tropical tank. Although often thought of a subject for children, the goldfish has a throng of worldwide enthusiasts and breeders who consider it every bit as worthy as the exalted Koi.

The Goldfish is a long-lived coldwater species that will not do well in the warm-water conditions of the average tropical home aquarium with heater. Goldfish can survive water from zero to 30ºC (32-86ºF), but will do best in cooler room temperatures.

Goldfish also deserve more room than a typical fishbowl. One rule of thumb among goldfish fanciers is to provide a minimum of 8.33 L (10 US gal) of water per goldfish.

If you must have a fish that fits in a bowl or very small aquarium, consider a Siamese Fighting Fish (Betta).

[edit] Feeding

Omnivore. Easily fed on most aquarium rations. They will thrive if fed meaty items such as brine shrimp, Tubifex worms, Daphnia, mosquito larvae and Spirulina algae flakes.

[edit] Aquarium Compatibility

Peaceful. Goldfish deserve more room than a typical fishbowl. One rule of thumb among goldfish fanciers is to provide a minimum of 8.33 L (10 US gal) of water per goldfish.

[edit] Breeding/Propagation

Egg scatterers that provide no parental care. A mature female can produce several thousand eggs every week to 10 days. Eggs hatch in 4-5 days at 64–69ºF (18–20ºC). Fry will eat newly hatched brine shrimp, pulverized egg yolk, powered foods for newly hatched fish.

[edit] Notes

Goldfish can be long-lived in captivity, with 10 to 25 years not uncommon; there is one report of a fish living to the age of 43.

WARNING: Never release goldfish (or any other living matter from your aquarium) into local waters. They can spread disease to native species, especially carp, and cause ecosystem disturbances.

Category: Species