Pond Goldfish
Origin:
China
Max Size:
Up to 14 inches in length
Pond Size:
Goldfish need a pond at least 150 gallons in size.
Pond Requirements:
Pond must be at least 3 feet deep in order to winter-over properly; excellent filtration; pond should be 50-75% covered by plants to provide shade and cover for fish.
Feeding:
Needs large amounts of vegetable matter; feed once or twice daily; be careful not to over feed as it is bad for their health and contributes to poor water quality; different formulas vary by season.
Compatibility:
Community safe; best kept with only koi and other goldfish due to water and filtration requirements.
Species Overview
Goldfish are the staple of garden ponds. They adapt readily to a wide range of pond conditions, and are bright and colorful. Common comets as well as the red and white Sarasas or calico Shubunkins are popular choices. Some people even keep fancy fantail type goldfish outside, though they may not winter over as well. Goldfish are suitable for smaller ponds and water gardens. They are considerably smaller than Koi, and are not as likely to uproot or dig in your pond plants.
There are different food formulas available for feeding pond fish through the changing seasons. These formulas differ by crude protein content. In different seasons, fish metabolize protein differently. If the temperature is below 45°F, they become dormant, and will not need to be fed until the water temperatures rise again. When the temperature is between 45-58°F, use the Fall/Spring formula. For temperatures over 60°F, use the Summer formula which has higher protein content to nourish the fish through their most active time of year. The Growth and Color formulas may be fed to juveniles or adults. Goldfish should be fed once or twice a day, and only feed them what they can consume in 5 minutes. Greens like live Anacharis or Cabomba are appreciated. You can even feed them vegetable or fruit treats, like lettuce and grapes, on occasion. Goldfish can be kept in your pond through the winter, but be sure that the pond does not completely freeze. You can use a floating heater or a de-icer when temperatures are below 40°F to keep an opening in the surface of the pond for gas exchange.
We always suggest that you do further research before adding a new pet to your pond. What we have provided for you are guidelines and suggestions. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact our fish room at 717-299-5691 ext. 1213 or marinebio@thatpetplace.com.