Goldfish
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
A great fish for the aquarium or pond, but a poor choice for a warm-water tropical tank. Aaron Norman
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).
Family: Cyprinidae
Other common name(s):
Native range:
Habitat: Pond-like conditions with gentle currents and with plants that can be replaced (goldfish will eat most delicate aquatic plants).
Maximum length: 45 cm (18 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 38 L (10 gal)
Water: Freshwater 21 °C (70 °F) - 24 °C (75 °F)
General swimming level: All levels.
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.
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.
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.
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.