While goldfish are certainly among the hardiest of fish, it’s important to educate yourself about these fascinating species before you go out and buy any for your tank.
In terms of longevity, goldfish can live as long as 25 years, with some even growing as long as two feet. While goldfish are often thought of as inexpensive, collectors are willing to pay up to $1,000 or more for a prized specimen from the goldfish family.
There are more than 125 varieties of goldfish, ranging from the common pet shop goldfish to the fancier species. Some goldfish, particularly the bulging-eyed varieties, may appear deformed; however, they are highly prized by goldfish enthusiasts and breeders.
Common vs. Fancy Goldfish
The comet is the most common type of goldfish. This variety is known for its pointy tail. The shubunkin, which is blue and speckled, is perhaps the most widely known of the straight-tailed varieties. Both of these types are fairly robust and easy to maintain. Additionally, both will grow quite large when provided with adequate space and care.
Fancy goldfish, most of which have round bodies and long flowing fins, tend to reach smaller adult sizes. They are also generally less robust and more sensitive. Fancy varieties are more prone to illness, particularly bacterial infections. This can be avoided by maintaining good water quality, but it requires additional vigilance and maintenance.
While common goldfish and fancy goldfish can be kept together, it’s best to keep them separately. Straight-tailed varieties tend to be faster swimmers and more boisterous, while the fancy varieties are not as good swimmers. As a result, the fancy varieties may be bullied by the straight-tailed ones.
It is advisable to purchase your goldfish from a store with knowledgeable staff, rather than from department stores where the staff likely have little knowledge of the fish they sell. Avoid fish with dorsal fins that are not erect, as this can be a sign of illness. Fish that struggle to reach the bottom of the tank should also be avoided, as should those that appear significantly smaller than others of the same age.
If you are buying fancy goldfish with bulging or bubble eyes, avoid those with eyes that are either too small or too large. Small bubbles may not grow sufficiently, while overly large ones may grow to a size that makes swimming difficult later on.
Make sure to examine all the fish in the tank and be cautious about purchasing any that are in the same tank as a fish that appears sick. If one fish seems sickly, the others may be as well.
It’s important to keep in mind that while goldfish are hardy, even the common varieties require good care to ensure their survival. This includes providing them with an adequately sized tank. Goldfish are often associated with bowls, but in reality, they should have enough space to grow. Depending on the variety, goldfish can grow from six to fourteen inches and can live, on average, from seven to ten years.
To provide an adequate home for two goldfish, your tank should be at least 20 gallons. While this may seem large, goldfish grow quickly and will fill the space. The water should be dechlorinated, and a good filtration system should be in place. If the water temperature stays between 65 and 75 degrees, you won’t need a heater. Additionally, you don’t need gravel at the bottom of the tank, but if you use it, be sure to siphon it regularly to remove fish waste and excess food.
Finally, avoid overfeeding your goldfish. Remember the rule: never feed more than your fish can eat in five minutes, twice a day. This will help keep your fish healthy and the water cleaner.
