Butterfly Panda Goldfish - Small

Goldfish are all actually selectively bred Asian Carp, Carassius auratus. Different variations and fancy body types were developed in China and other parts of Asia and were perfected over the course of a few hundred years into the interesting and popular fish you see in aquariums today. Some have stayed true to the carp like body shape while others have developed larger bodies, lost their dorsal fins. have over sized eyes and some have elongated fins. Goldfish can be easy to care for, and given proper care and a healthy environment, some goldfish will live for more than 50 years.

One of the most important things to do to keep your goldfish healthy is to provide them with plenty of clean, cool water. Bowls and small aquariums are not suitable environments for these fish. They need plenty of space to swim and develop properly. Goldfish produce an exceptionally high amount of waste, so regular water changes of 10-15 percent weekly and quality filtration system are necessary. Keep the temperature on the cool side, lower than 75 degrees and ideally between 65-68F.

When feeding these fish keep in mind that they will need large amounts of vegetative matter to stay healthy and to avoid buoyancy problems. Goldfish are primarily herbivores, so provide them with a varied plant-based and lower protein diet. Many goldfish foods are available on the market today, formulated specifically for the needs of these fish. Treats like a slice of fresh cucumber or a bunch of live plants like Anacharis or Hornwort can be added as well. Goldfish have large appetites, but be careful not to overfeed them. Overfeeding will cause a decline in water quality and in the health of your pet. It is best to house goldfish with other goldfish only.

Tankmates should generally be restricted just to other goldfish, if room allows. The large amounts of waste and ammonia that these fish produce as well as the lower temperatures at which they thrive can be harmful to tropical freshwater fish. Different types of fancy goldfish can usually be mixed safely in an aquarium of adequate size. Choose all tankmates carefully.

Visit That Fish Blog for more information from our marine biologists and aquarium staff on fancy goldfish and many other topics!