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Goldfish  types : 

 

Dr, Jungle says, "The average life span of the common goldfish is over 20 years and some have been known to live up to 32 years!"

 

Goldfish are one of the all-time favorites of fish keepers everywhere. Why? Because they are beautiful and fun to watch. They have a good memory and becoming very sociable with their keepers. Most of the commonly available goldfish varieties are also relatively easy to care for.

 

Originating from Asia (Siberia), goldfish are one of the first aquatic animals in recorded history to be kept as pets. The majority of the fancy goldfish have been developed by Oriental breeders. It is estimated that there are over 125 types of gold fish. There is a wide variety of beautiful goldfish colors that can be metallic, iridescent, or flat and they come in many interesting forms.

 

Many goldfish types are very hardy species, especially the Common goldfish and the Comet Goldfish. These two are great for beginners. Both the Fantail Goldfish and Shubunkin Goldfish are also good beginner fish. Other hardier types include Black Moor Goldfish and the Ryukin Goldfish. Once you've gained experience and confidence in keeping these hardier goldfish, try some of the more delicate fancy goldfish like the Bubble-eye Goldfish, Celestial Goldfish, Oranda Goldfish or Lionheads.

 

The Goldfish types list below includes popular goldfish, as well lesser known goldfish varieties. Each fish guide has a description of the goldfish, its place of origin, habitats and behaviors, as well as goldfish care to successful maintain them in an aquarium. Goldfish pictures are also provided within each fish guide to help with identification, and to aid in choosing the best type of goldfish for your freshwater tank.

 

Goldfish Facts: 

 

The goldfish available in pet stores today are descendants of a wild carp fish, known by such names as the Prussian Carp, Silver Prussian carp, or Gibel Carp Carassius gibelio (syn: Carassius auratus gibelio). For many years it was believed that goldfish had originated from the Crucian Carp or Golden Carp Carassius auratus auratus described by Linnaeus in 1758, but more recent research is pointing toward the former.

 

Goldfish were originally developed in China. In the 1500's goldfish they were exported to Japan. They were then sent to Europe in the 1600's and to America in the 1800's. These countries developed them into the wondrous variety of goldfish colors and forms we see today. The majority of the fancy goldfish have been developed by Oriental breeders. It is estimated that there are over 125 types of gold fish.

 

Goldfish Care

 

Often people start out keeping goldfish in small 1 or 2 gallon bowls with no heater or filtration. But for the best long-term success in keeping both common and fancy goldfish, goldfish aquariums work better than goldfish bowls. In an aquarium you can provide your pet goldfish with the same filtration, especially biological filtration, that other aquarium residents enjoy and you'll have long lived, healthy fish.

 

Goldfish are a cold water fish and will do best at temperatures between 18°-22° C (65°-72° F). Several of these durable goldfish types, like the Black Moors, Shubunkins, Comets, and common goldfish can actually tolerate temperatures a few degrees above freezing as long as the cooling drops only a few degrees a day.

 

For an in-depth look at goldfish care, from their habitat to fish diseases and illnesses they are susceptible to, and how to treat goldfish, see: Goldfish Care; Guide to taking care of goldfish.

 

Breed Goldfish

 

Goldfish are easy to breed and their fry are not difficult to rear. These are very social animals that typically shoal, forage and feed in groups and are likely to breed in groups as well. They will spawn when you feed them lots of high protein foods, and then mimic the conditions found in nature when spring arrives.

 

Goldfish are egglayers and their tiny eggs are adhesive. Once the female drops the eggs, the male will then fertilize them. The eggs will stick to the plants by sticky threads. A spawn generally lasts for about 2 to 3 hours, and up to 10,000 eggs can be produced.

 

But yikes! once they've spawned, the parents will eat all they eggs they can find. So the parents must quickly be moved to another aquarium. The young once hatched need to be fed fry foods. These babies are dark brown to black in color, but will start gaining their gold colorations in a few months. At about 1 inch long, they can be moved in with larger fish. For more information on how to breed Goldfish

1- Black Moor Goldfish : 

Black Demekin, Black Peony Goldfish, Dragon Eye Goldfish

Family: Cyprinidae

 

The Black Moor Goldfish is basically a black version of the Telescope Goldfish, though the eyes usually don't protrude as far as they do on the Telescope!

 

The Black Moor Goldfish is one of the more rounded or egg-shaped fancy goldfish. This rounded shape is enhanced by large bulbous eyes protruding out on the sides of its head. It also has metallic scales that give it a deep velvety black color and long flowing finnage.

 

This goldfish is basically a black version of the Telescope Goldfish though its eyes don't protrude quite as far. These eyes have given rise to some descriptive names for this fish, such as the Dragon Eye Goldfish and Black Peony Goldfish. Juveniles are a dark bronze and without the protruding eyes, but as they mature they become black and their eyes begin to telescope.

 

Most Black Moors stay black but their color can change with age, ranging from gray to black, or they can revert to a metallic orange when kept in warmer water. Though they once were available with a beautiful veil-tail, the specimens available today will have either a broad tail, ribbon tail, or butterfly tail.

 

Their hardiness and ability to live in cold temperatures makes them ideal pets.They are very popular gold fish and are found in collectors tanks throughout the world.  The Black Moor along with two other egg-shaped goldfish, the Fantail Goldfish and the Ryukin Goldfish, are recommended for the beginner. Unlike the Fantail and the Ryukin however, the Black Moor must not be kept with highly competitive tank mates. Yet these three varieties along with the Common Goldfish, Comet Goldfish, the Shubunkin, are all considered good beginner goldfish.

 

For most of these goldfish, their hardiness and ability to live at colder temperatures (as long as the cooling drops only a few degrees a day) makes them ideal for outdoor ponds as well. The Black Moor is the only possible exception to this, not because it lacks hardiness but because of its telescopic eyes. Its eyes cause it to have poor vision so it is not a good competitor for food, and they are subject to injury and infection. None of these hardy fish are really good companions for the Black Moor because they are all too competitive during feeding time. Better tank mates would be the similarly handicapped but less hardy Telescope Goldfish, Celestial Goldfish, and Water Bubble-Eye Goldfish.

 

  • Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner

  • Size of fish - inches: 4.0 inches (10.16 cm)

  • Minimum Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L)

  • Temperament: Peaceful

  • Aquarium Hardiness: Very Hardy

  • Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C)

Habitat: Distribution / Background:

 

 

The goldfish of today are descendants of a wild carp fish, known as the Prussian Carp, Silver Prussian carp, or Gibel CarpCarassius gibelio (syn: Carassius auratus gibelio) which was described by Bloch in 1782. These wild carp originated in Asia; Central Asia (siberia). They inhabit the slow moving and stagnant waters of rivers, lakes, ponds, and ditches feeding on plants, detritus, small crustaceans, and insects.

 

For many years it was believed that goldfish had originated from the Crucian Carp Carassius carassius described by Linnaeus in 1758. This fish has a wide range across the European content, running west to east from England to Russia, north to Scandinavian countries in the Arctic Circle and as far south as the central France and the Black Sea. However now this is considered improbable as recent genetic research points to C. gibelio.

 

Goldfish were originally developed in China, but by the 1500's goldfish were traded to Japan, to Europe in the 1600's, and to America by the 1800's. The majority of the fancy goldfish were being developed by Oriental breeders. The results of this centuries long endeavor is the wonderful goldfish colors and forms we see today. Today domesticated goldfish are distributed world-wide.

 

The Black Moor Goldfish is a black version of the Telescope Goldfish which was believed to be developed in China in the early 1700's. It was known as the Dragon Eyes or the Dragon Fish. In the later part of the 1700's it was produced in Japan where it is known as the Demekin. The Black Moor is also referred to as the Dragon Eye Goldfish as well as the Black Peony Goldfish and the Black Demekin. It is one of the more than 125 captive bred fancy gold fish varieties.

 

  • Scientific Name: Carassius auratus auratus

  • Social Grouping: Groups - Can be kept singly or in groups.

  • IUCN Red List: NE - Not Evaluated or not listed - This species is not listed on the IUCN Red List, and presumably there are no wild populations of this captive bred variety, Black Moor Goldfish.

Description: 

 

The Black Moor Goldfish is an egg-shaped variety of goldfish. The body is short and stubby and the head has large bulbous eyes protruding out on the sides. It has metallic scales that give it a deep velvety black color and it has long flowing finnage.

 

Black Moor Goldfish will generally reach about 4 inches (10 cm), though some hobbyist report their Black Moors reaching up to a whopping 10" (25 cm)! The average goldfish lifespan is 10 – 15 years, though living 20 years or more is not uncommon in well maintained goldfish aquariums and ponds.

 

Most Black Moors stay black but their color can change with age, ranging from gray to black, or they can revert to a metallic orange when kept in warmer water. Juveniles are a dark bronze and without the protruding eyes, but as they mature they become black and their eyes begin to telescope. Though they once were available with a beautiful veil-tail, the varieties available today will have either a broad tail, ribbon tail, or butterfly tail. .

 

  • Size of fish - inches: 4.0 inches (10.16 cm) - Average size is 4" (10.16 cm), but have been reported to reach up to 10" (25 cm).

  • Lifespan: 15 years - The average goldfish lifespan is 10 – 15 years, but have been known to live 20 years of more when well maintained

 

Fish Keeping Difficulty:

 

Black Moor Goldfish are some of the hardier species of goldfish. They are very undemanding of water quality and temperature. They can do well in a goldfish aquarium, or even a pond as long as the environment is safe and their tank mates are not competitive.

 

Many people will keep goldfish in an aquarium with no heater or filtration, but for the best success provide them the same filtration, especially biological filtration, that other aquarium residents enjoy. Be careful when netting these fish, as their eyes are easily damaged. When it comes to feeding, they will not thrive well with fast competitive tank mates.

 

  • Aquarium Hardiness: Very Hardy

  • Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner - The average goldfish lifespan is 10 – 15 years, but have been

 

Foods and Feeding:

 

Since they are omnivorous, the Black Moor Goldfish will generally eat all kinds of fresh, frozen, and flake foods. To keep a good balance give them a high quality flake food everyday. Feed brine shrimp (either live or frozen), blood worms, Daphnia, or tubifex worms as a treat. It is usually better to feed freeze-dried foods as opposed to live foods to avoid parasites and bacterial infections that could be present in live foods. Due to the protruding eyes they have poor vision and a harder time seeing their food, so need extra time to feed.

 

  • Diet Type: Omnivore

  • Flake Food: Yes

  • Tablet Pellet: Yes

  • Live foods (fishes, shrimps, worms): Some of Diet

  • Vegetable Food: Some of Diet

  • Meaty Food: Some of Diet

  • Feeding Frequency: Several feedings per day - This fish has poor eyesight and is somewhat sluggish, so the aquarist needs to be sure that their Black Moor Goldfish is not being out competed for food during feeding time.

Aquarium Care:

 

Regular weekly water changes of 1/4 to 1/3 is strongly recommended to keep these fish healthy. Snails can be added as they reduce the algae in the tank, helping to keep it clean.

 

  • Water Changes: Weekly - Goldfish produce more waste than most other freshwater fish and benefit greatly from more frequent water changes.

 

Aquarium Setup:

 

Setting up a goldfish aquarium in a manner that will keep your fish happy and healthy is the first step to success. The shape and size of the aquarium is important and depends upon the number of goldfish you are going to keep. These fish need a lot of oxygen and produce a lot of waste. Good filtration, especially biological filtration, is very helpful in maintaining the water quality of the aquarium. Filtration systems remove much of the detritus, excess foods and waste. This in turn helps to keep the tank clean and maintain the general health of the goldfish.

 

 

Tank parameters to consider when choosing a goldfish aquarium:

 

  • Tank sizeTen gallons is the absolute minimum required to house a Black Moor. It's best to start with a 20 - 30 gallon tank for your first goldfish and then increase the size of the tank by 10 gallons for each additional goldfish. Providing a large amount of water per fish will help dilute the amount of waste and reduce the number of water changes needed.

     

  • Tank ShapeAlways provide the maximum amount of surface area. A large surface area of water will help minimize goldfish suffering from an oxygen shortage. Surface area is determined by the shape of the tank. For example an elongated tank offers more surface area (and oxygen) than a tall tank. In an oval or round shaped tank the middle offers more surface area than filling it to the top.

     

  • Number of fishFor juveniles a general rule of thumb is 1 inch of fish (2.54 cm) per 1 gallon of water. But this rule only applies to young fish and is not adequate as they grow. Larger gold fish consume much more oxygen than young fish so maintaining this formula for growing fish will stunt them, and can contribute to disease and even death.

     

  • Fish size and growthTo allow for proper growth, either buy fewer fish than the maximum number or be prepared to get a larger tank. To prevent stunted growth and other health problems, don't overstocking the aquarium.

Goldfish are a cold water fish and will do best at temperatures between 65 - 72° F (18°- 22° C). The Black Moor Goldfish are one of the most hardy varieties of goldfish and can tolerate temperatures a few degrees above freezing, as long as the cooling drops only a few degrees a day. A quick temperature drop can kill them, so if you live in a very cold climate a heater is advisable.

 

Provide a gravel substrate to help create a natural and comfortable environment for your fish. You can add some decor, but keep in mind that the eyes of the Black Moor are a handicap. These fish have very poor vision so make sure that all ornamentation is smooth with no protruding points or sharp edges. Smooth rocks or driftwood, should be used sparingly if at all. Aquarium plants would be the best choice of aquarium decor for goldfish, but unfortunately these fish are diggers. Consequently live plants may be uprooted. Artificial plants make a good substitute and silk plants are safer than plastic ones.

 

Most aquariums come with a cover that includes lighting. A cover for the tank is desirable as it reduces evaporation and though they are not prone to jumping, on occasion some gold fish will jump out. Lighting is not essential for goldfish in general, but it can help the Black Moor as these fish have such poor eyesight. It also makes the aquarium a nice show piece and is needed if you have live plants.

 

Goldfish are freshwater fish, but they have some tolerance for slightly brackish water. The salinity level for C. auratusmust be kept low, below 10% with a specific gravity of less than 1.002.

 

  • Minimum Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L) - Ten gallons is the absolute minimum required to house this fish. It has high oxygen requirements, produces a lot of waste. It will have very stunted growth if it is kept in a smaller aquarium.

  • Suitable for Nano Tank: Yes - A Nano tank is fine as long as it is 10 gallons or more.

  • Substrate Type: Any - A medium sized gravel works best.

  • Lighting Needs: High - Strong lighting - Strong lighting will help this fish make the best of what little eyesight it has.

  • Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C) - This fish will tolerate much colder temperatures, although this seems to be the optimum range for activity and longevity of Goldfish.

  • Range ph: 6.0-8.0

  • Hardness Range: 5 - 19 dGH

  • Brackish: Sometimes - The salinity for C. auratus must be kept below 10%, a specific gravity of less than 1.002.

  • Water Movement: Moderate

  • Water Region: All - These fish will swim in all areas of the aquarium.

Social Behaviors: 

 

Goldfish are very social animals and thrive in a community. Not only are they a great community fish but they are great scavengers as well. The Black Moor Goldfish, along with the Telescope Goldfish and the Celestial Goldfish, are all visually handicapped so do well when kept together.

 

These goldfish cannot readily compete for food with other sharp-eyed and fast moving types of goldfish, so may not fare well if kept with them. Goldfish are great scavengers, so it is really not necessary to add other scavengers or other bottom feeders to the aquarium when you have goldfish.

 

  • Venomous: No

  • Temperament: Peaceful

  • Compatible with:

    • Same species - conspecifics: Yes

    • Peaceful fish (): Safe

    • Semi-Aggressive (): Threat

    • Shrimps, Crabs, Snails: Safe - not aggressive

    • Plants: Threat - Goldfish will eat many kinds of aquatic plants, and their constant search for food end up uprooting plants that they don't eat.

Sex: Sexual differences:

 

uring the breeding season the male has white prickles, called breeding tubercles, on its gill covers and head. Seen from above a female will have a fatter appearance when she is carrying eggs. It is impossible to sex Goldfish when they are young and not in breeding season, but generally the male is smaller and more slender than the female.

 

 

Breeding / Reproduction:

 

Black Moor Goldfish are egg layers that spawn readily in the right conditions. See Breeding Freshwater Fish - Goldfish for more information on breeding Goldfish.

 

  • Ease of Breeding: Moderate

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Fish Diseases:

 

Goldfish are subject to the same diseases as tropical fish. A couple of the more common problems are Ich, Swim Bladder Disease, and external parasites including flukes, lice and anchor worms. For more in-depth information about goldfish diseases and illnesses,

 

References:

 

  • Animal-World References: Freshwater Fish and Plants

  • David Alderton, Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish , DK Publishing, Inc., 2005.

  • Marshall E. Ostrow, Goldfish (Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manuals), Barron's Educational Series, Inc. 2003

  • Geoff Rogers, Nick Fletcher, Focus on Freshwater Aquarium Fish, Firefly Books. 2004

  • David Sands, Goldfish (Caring for Your Pet), Interpet Publishing, 1999

 

 

2- Bubble Eye Goldfish:

 

Water-Bubble Eye Goldfish

 

he Bubble Eye Goldfish is a truly bizarre looking fish with big bubbles on the side of its head!

The most intriguing feature of the Bubble Eye Goldfish are its bubbles. The bubbles on this goldfish begin to develop at an age of 6-9 months, leading to the name Water-Bubble Eye. By the time they are 2 years old, the bubbles are very large. These water-filled bubbles get so big in fact, that the fish has trouble seeing and can even have a hard time swimming because of them.

 

Although these are very intriguing looking fancy goldfish, their bubble sacs are easily broken. The sacs are notorious for getting caught in the water uptake valves of aquarium filters. It helps to have a foam cover over the valve to help prevent this. Most the time broken bubbles will grow back, but sometimes they may not grow back at all. And when they do grow back, they are a different shape and size and won't match their other bubble. Broken bubbles heal slowly and are subject to infection, so keep an eye on your fish and be ready to treat it if necessary.

 

Besides its infamous bubbles, the Bubble Eye Goldfish is one a most unique looking of the goldfish varieties. Along with the Lionhead Goldfish , the Bubble Eye Goldfish is a dorsal-less goldfish, so no fin on the top of its back. There is a variety bred in China however, that does have a dorsal fin. But this variety does not qualify for show by the the Goldfish Society of America (GFSA).

 

The Bubble Eye Goldfish is one of the more rounded or egg-shaped fancy gold fish, rather than having the long slender body seen in Common Goldfish or the Shubunkins. It has a double-tail and its body shape and size are very similar to the Celestial Eye Goldfish. Like the Celestial its eyes are upturned, though not as extreme as on the Celestial. Both these goldfish also have a little bit slimmer body than other round or egg-shaped goldfish. It is available in a variety of goldfish colors that include solids of red, blue, chocolate, and black; bi-colors of red/white and red/black; and also calicos.

 

Though the Bubble Eye Goldfish are widely available, they are considered delicate and not recommended as a beginner fish, or for community aquariums. Its swimming ability is cumbersome because of its rounded body which is further diminished by the lack of a stabilizing dorsal fin.

 

Many of the elongated goldfish varieties like the the Common Goldfish, Comet Goldfish, the Shubunkin, are not good companions for the Bubble Eye Goldfish because they are fast swimmers and too competitive during feeding time. Better tank mates would be the similarly handicapped but less hardy Lionhead Goldfish, Telescope Goldfish, and Celestial Eye Goldfish. It won't win any races, but if kept with other slow-moving varieties the Water-Bubble Eye Goldfish should get plenty to eat.

 

  • Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

  • Size of fish - inches: 5.0 inches (12.70 cm)

  • Minimum Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L)

  • Temperament: Peaceful

  • Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately Difficult

  • Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C)

Habitat: Distribution / Background:

 

The goldfish of today are descendants of a wild carp fish, known as the Prussian Carp, Silver Prussian carp, or Gibel CarpCarassius gibelio (syn: Carassius auratus gibelio) which was described by Bloch in 1782. These wild carp originated in Asia; Central Asia (siberia). They inhabit the slow moving and stagnant waters of rivers, lakes, ponds, and ditches feeding on plants, detritus, small crustaceans, and insects. For many years it was believed that goldfish had originated from the Crucian Carp or Golden Carp Carassius auratus auratus described by Linnaeus in 1758, but more recent research is pointing toward the former.

 

Goldfish were originally developed in China, but by the 1500’s goldfish were traded to Japan, to Europe in the 1600's, and to America by the 1800's. The majority of the fancy goldfish were being developed by Oriental breeders. The results of this centuries long endeavor is the wonderful goldfish colors and forms we see today. Today domesticated goldfish are distributed world-wide.

 

The Bubble Eye Goldfish, also known as the Water-Bubble Eye Goldfish, was developed in China. It is one of the more than 125 captive bred fancy goldfish varieties.

 

  • Scientific Name: Carassius auratus auratus

  • Social Grouping: Groups - Can be kept singly or in groups.

  • IUCN Red List: NE - Not Evaluated or not listed - There are no wild populations of this captive bred variety.

Description:

 

The Water-Bubble Eye Goldfish, also called the Bubble Eye Goldfish, is an egg-shaped variety of goldfish. It is double-tailed and its body shape and size are very similar to the Celestial Goldfish, being a bit slimmer body than other egg-shaped goldfish. Also like the Celestial its eyes are upturned, though not as extremely.

 

Fluid-filled sacks begin to develop as bubbles under its eyes at an age of 6-9 months and by the time they are 2 years old, the bubbles are very large. It is one of the dorsal less goldfish, though there is also a variety bred in China that has a dorsal fin.

 

These goldfish are available in a variety of colors that include solids of red, blue, chocolate, and black; bi-colors of red/white and red/black; and also calicos. They will generally reach about 5 inches (13 cm), though some hobbyist report their Bubble Eye's growing much larger. The average goldfish lifespan is 10 – 15 years, though living 20 years or more is not uncommon in well maintained goldfish aquariums and ponds

 

  • Size of fish - inches: 5.0 inches (12.70 cm) - Although this fish is capable of larger sizes, it rarely exceeds five inches in the home aquarium.

  • Lifespan: 15 years - The average goldfish lifespan is 10 – 15 years, but they have been known to live 20 years of more when well maintained.

 

 

Fish Keeping Difficulty :

 

Bubble Eye Goldfish are some of the more delicate species of goldfish. They are not recommended as a beginner fish, or for community aquariums. Unlike the flat-bodied types of goldfish, they have a lower tolerance for pollution. They will need good care and plenty of space. When it comes to feeding, they will not thrive well with fast competitive tank mates.

 

Be careful when netting these fish, as their eyes are easily damaged. Also be careful of filter intakes, if there is a strong water flow the bubble sacs of these fish can get sucked into it and burst. Adding some soft sponge filter media over the intake valve can help.

 

Many people will keep goldfish in small one or two gallon bowls with no heater or filtration. But for the best success in keeping the Bubble Eye Goldfish, provide them the same filtration, especially biological filtration, that other aquarium residents enjoy.

 

  • Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately Difficult - The Sacs below the eyes are very delicate. This fish has poor eyesight and is a poor swimmer.

  • Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate - The aquarist should be well aquainted with Goldfish care and the specific requirements of the variation.

 

Foods and Feeding:

 

Since they are omnivorous, the Bubble Eye Goldfish will generally eat all kinds of fresh, frozen, and flake foods. To keep a good balance give them a high quality flake food everyday. To care for your Bubble Eye Goldfish, feed brine shrimp (either live or frozen), blood worms, Daphnia, or tubifex worms as a treat. It is usually better to feed freeze-dried foods as opposed to live foods to avoid parasites and bacterial infections that could be present in live foods.

 

Due to the fluid filled sacs under their eyes they can have poor vision and a harder time seeing their food, so need extra time to feed.

 

  • Diet Type: Omnivore

  • Flake Food: Yes - This fish should optimally be fed sinking food as it seems very prone to air ingestion which can cause health issues for the fish.

  • Tablet Pellet: Yes

  • Live foods (fishes, shrimps, worms): Some of Diet

  • Vegetable Food: Some of Diet

  • Meaty Food: Some of Diet

  • Feeding Frequency: Several feedings per day - Other Goldfish without sight and swimming handicaps will out compete this fish at feeding time.

Aquarium Care

 

Regular weekly water changes of 1/4 to 1/3 is strongly recommended to keep these fish healthy. Snails can be added as they reduce the algae in the tank, helping to keep it clean.

 

  • Water Changes: Weekly

 

Aquarium Setup

 

Setting up a goldfish aquarium in a manner that will keep your fish happy and healthy is the first step to success. The shape and size of the aquarium is important and depends upon the number of goldfish you are going to keep. These fish need a lot of oxygen and produce a lot of waste.

 

Good filtration, especially biological filtration, is very helpful in maintaining the water quality of the aquarium. Filtration systems remove much of the detritus, excess foods and waste. This in turn helps to keep the tank clean and maintain the general health of the goldfish. However the sacs of the Bubble Eye Goldfish are notorious for getting caught in the water uptake valves of aquarium filters. It helps to have a foam cover over the valve to help prevent this.

 

Tank parameters to consider when choosing a goldfish aquarium:

  • Tank sizeTen gallons is the absolute minimum required to house a Bubble Eye Goldfish. It's best to start with a 20 - 30 gallon tank for your first goldfish and then increase the size of the tank by 10 gallons for each additional goldfish. Providing a large amount of water per fish will help dilute the amount of waste and reduce the number of water changes needed..

  • Tank ShapeAlways provide the maximum amount of surface area. A large surface area of water will help minimize goldfish suffering from an oxygen shortage. Surface area is determined by the shape of the tank. For example an elongated tank offers more surface area (and oxygen) than a tall tank. In an oval or round shaped tank the middle offers more surface area than filling it to the top.

  • Number of fishFor juveniles a general rule of thumb is 1 inch of fish (2.54 cm) per 1 gallon of water. But this rule only applies to young fish and is not adequate as they grow. Larger gold fish consume much more oxygen than young fish so maintaining this formula for growing fish will stunt them, and can contribute to disease and even death.

  • Fish size and growthTo allow for proper growth, either buy fewer fish than the maximum number or be prepared to get a larger tank. To prevent stunted growth and other health problems, don't overstocking the aquarium.

Goldfish are a cold water fish and will do best at temperatures between 65 - 72° F (18°- 22° C). Unlike the flat-bodied types of goldfish, Bubble Eye Goldfish cannot tolerate temperatures much below 60° F (16° C).

 

Provide a gravel substrate to help create a natural and comfortable environment for your fish. You could add some decor but keep in mind that its fluid filled eye sacs can be a problem, both easily damaged and giving these fish poor vision. Make sure that all ornamentation is smooth with no protruding points or sharp edges. Smooth rocks or driftwood, should be used sparingly if at all. Aquarium plants would be the best choice of aquarium decor for goldfish, but unfortunately these fish are diggers. Consequently live plants may be uprooted. Artificial plants make a good substitute and silk plants are safer than plastic ones.

 

Most aquariums come with a cover that includes lighting. A cover for the tank is desirable as it reduces evaporation and though they are not prone to jumping, on occasion some gold fish will jump out. Lighting is not essential for goldfish in general, but it can help the Bubble Eye as these fish have such poor eyesight. It does makes the aquarium a nice show piece and is needed if you have live plants.

 

Goldfish are freshwater fish, but they have some tolerance for slightly brackish water. The salinity level for C. auratusmust be kept low, below 10% with a specific gravity of less than 1.002.

 

  • Minimum Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L) - Ten gallons is the absolute minimum required to house this fish. It has high oxygen requirements, produces a lot of waste. It will have very stunted growth if it is kept in a smaller aquarium.

  • Suitable for Nano Tank: Sometimes

  • Substrate Type: Any - A medium sized gravel works best.

  • Lighting Needs: Moderate - normal lighting - Strong lighting will help this fish make the best of what little eyesight it has.

  • Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C) - Unlike the flat-bodied types of goldfish, Bubble Eye Goldfish cannot tolerate temperatures much below 60° F (16° C).

  • Range ph: 6.0-8.0

  • Hardness Range: 5 - 19 dGH

  • Brackish: Sometimes - The salinity for C. auratus must be kept below 10%, a specific gravity of less than 1.002.

  • Water Movement: Weak - This fish needs a gentle water flow, its rounded body and lack of a lack of a stabilizing dorsal fin make its swimming ability cumbersome.

  • Water Region: All - This fish will usually favor the surface or the bottom of the aquarium.

Social Behaviors  :

 

Goldfish are very social animals and great community fish, and they are great scavengers as well. It is really not necessary to add other scavengers or other bottom feeders to the aquarium when you have goldfish.

 

When choosing tank mates for this fancy goldfish, keep in mind the physical traits of the Bubble Eye. Like the Telescope Goldfish and Celestial Goldfish, the Bubble Eye can be visually handicapped. Further its swimming ability is cumbersome because of its rounded body and the lack of a stabilizing dorsal fin, a trait that is also seen in the Lionhead Goldfish.

 

While the Bubble Eye cannot readily compete for food with fast swimming types of goldfish, any of the similarly handicapped varieties can make good companions. They also do well with their own kind.

 

  • Venomous: No

  • Temperament: Peaceful

  • Compatible with:

    • Same species - conspecifics: Yes

    • Peaceful fish (): Safe

    • Slow Swimmers & Eaters (): Safe

    • Shrimps, Crabs, Snails: Safe - not aggressive

    • Plants: Threat - Goldfish will eat many kinds of aquatic plants, and their constant search for food can end up uprooting plants that they don't eat.

 

Sex: Sexual differences : 

 

During the breeding season the male has white prickles, called breeding tubercles, on its gill covers and head. Seen from above a female will have a fatter appearance when she is carrying eggs. It is impossible to sex Goldfish when they are young and not in breeding season, but generally the male is smaller and more slender than the female.

 

Breeding / Reproduction

 

Goldfish are egg layers that spawn readily in the right conditions. See Breeding Freshwater Fish - Goldfish for more information on breeding Goldfish.

 

  • Ease of Breeding: Moderate

 

 

Fish Diseases  : 

 

Goldfish are subject to the same diseases as tropical fish. A couple of the more common problems are Ich, Swim Bladder Disease, and external parasites including flukes, lice and anchor worms. For more in-depth information about goldfish diseases and illnesses,

 

References

  • Animal-World References: Freshwater Fish and Plants

  • David Alderton, Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish , DK Publishing, Inc., 2005.

  • Marshall E. Ostrow, Goldfish (Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manuals), Barron's Educational Series, Inc. 2003

  • Geoff Rogers, Nick Fletcher, Focus on Freshwater Aquarium Fish, Firefly Books. 2004

  • David Sands, Goldfish (Caring for Your Pet), Interpet Publishing, 1999

 

 

 

 3- Celestial Eye Goldfish:

 

Stargazer Goldfish, Celestial Goldfish, Deme-Ranchu

 

The Celestial Eye Goldfish has eyes that are permanently looking skyward, so the Chinese named it the Stargazer!

 

The eerie eyes of the Celestial Eye Goldfish are mounted on the top sides of its head and constantly gaze upward. This makes it perhaps one of the most unusual of all the goldfish varieties. The Telescope Goldfish with its extended eye stalks and Bubble Eye Goldfish sporting watery eye bags follow close behind.

 

Unlike the Common Goldfish and the Shubunkins that have long slender bodies, the Celestial Eye Goldfish is one of the more rounded or egg-shaped fancy gold fish. Just like the Lionhead Goldfish or the Bubble Eye Goldfish It lacks a dorsal fin. Its colors are orange, black, and a pretty calico.

 

The Chinese called this fish the Stargazer. They are believed to have developed it in the later part of the nineteenth century, somewhere around 1870. During this time its eyes were at least partially mobile. Then the Japanese further developed it in the early 1900's and through selective breeding the resulting goldfish had eyes that were permanently locked in an upward position. To the Japanese this goldfish is known as the Deme-Ranchu.

 

In general form and size it is very similar to the Lionhead, but does not develop the Lionhead's characteristic raspberry looking growth on its head. It has a curved contour shape to its back and the twin tail (caudal) fin and anal fin. The caudal fin on both these fish is quite similar to that of the Fantail Goldfish.

 

      This is considered a rather delicate fish so is not recommended for beginners. It has a lower tolerance to poor water quality than other goldfish species and is prone to disease. Its swimming ability is cumbersome because of its rounded body which is further diminished by the lack of a stabilizing dorsal fin. Many of the elongated goldfish varieties like the the Comet and Common Goldfish, or the Shubunkins, are not really good companions for the Celestial Eye Goldfish because they are fast swimmers and too competitive during feeding time.

 

        Better tank mates would be the similarly handicapped but less hardy Water-Bubble Eye Goldfish, Telescope Goldfish, and Lionhead Goldfish. It won't win any races, but if kept with other slow-moving varieties the Celestial Eye Goldfish should get plenty to eat and do well in a properly maintained aquarium.

 

 

  • Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

  • Size of fish - inches: 5.0 inches (12.70 cm)

  • Minimum Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L)

  • Temperament: Peaceful

  • Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately Difficult

  • Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C)

 

Habitat: Distribution / Background :

 

The goldfish of today are descendants of a wild carp fish, known as the Prussian Carp, Silver Prussian carp, or Gibel CarpCarassius gibelio (syn: Carassius auratus gibelio) which was described by Bloch in 1782. For many years it was believed that goldfish had originated from the Crucian Carp or Golden Carp Carassius auratus auratus described by Linnaeus in 1758, but more recent research is pointing toward the former.

 

These wild carp originated in Asia; Central Asia (siberia). They inhabit the slow moving and stagnant waters of rivers, lakes, ponds, and ditches feeding on plants, detritus, small crustaceans, and insects.

 

Goldfish were originally developed in China, but by the 1500's goldfish were traded to Japan, to Europe in the 1600's, and to America by the 1800's. The majority of the fancy goldfish were being developed by Oriental breeders. The results of this centuries long endeavor is the wonderful goldfish colors and forms we see today. Today domesticated goldfish are distributed world-wide.

 

The Celestial Eye Goldfish are believed to have developed it in the later part of the nineteenth century, somewhere around 1870. During this time its eyes were at least partially mobile, until the early 1900's when the Japanese further developed it. Then through selective breeding it was developed it into a goldfish whose eyes were permanently locked in an upward position. This is one of more than 125 captive bred fancy goldfish varieties.

 

  • Scientific Name: Carassius auratus auratus

  • Social Grouping: Groups

  • IUCN Red List: NE - Not Evaluated or not listed - There are no wild populations of this captive bred variety.

Description:

 

 

The Celestial Eye Goldfish is an egg-shaped variety of goldfish. The body is short and stubby and they have a double caudal (tail) fin and a double anal fin. They will generally reach about 5" (13 cm) in length, though some hobbyist report them reaching 6" (15 cm) or more.

 

Their most distinctive feature are the eyes which extend out from the sides of the head and are locked into a permanent upward looking position. In juveniles the eyes are normal, but within a short time the eyes begin to protrude. Then the upturned vision develops and they become locked in.

 

They are available in color varieties of orange, black, and calico.The average goldfish life span is 10 – 15 years, though living 20 years or more is not uncommon in well maintained goldfish aquariums and ponds.

 

  • Size of fish - inches: 5.0 inches (12.70 cm) - This fish can exceed this by a few inches in optimal conditions.

  • Lifespan: 15 years - The average goldfish lifespan is 10 – 15 years, but they have been known to live 20 years of more when well maintained.

 

Fish Keeping Difficulty  :

 

Celestial Eye Goldfish are some of the more delicate species of goldfish. Unlike the flat-bodied types of goldfish, they have a lower tolerance for pollution and prone to disease. They will need good care and plenty of space. When it comes to feeding, they will not thrive well with fast competitive tank mates.

 

Many people will keep goldfish in an aquarium with no heater or filtration. But for the best success in keeping goldfish, provide them the same filtration, especially biological filtration, that other aquarium residents enjoy.

 

  • Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately Difficult - This is not one of the hardier types of goldfish, it is more sensitive to poor water quality than other goldfish and more prone to disease.

  • Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

 

 

 

Foods and Feeding : 

 

Since they are omnivorous, the Celestial Eye Goldfish will generally eat all kinds of fresh, frozen, and flake foods. To keep a good balance give them a high quality flake food everyday. Feed brine shrimp (either live or frozen), blood worms, Daphnia, or tubifex worms as a treat. It is usually better to feed freeze-dried foods as opposed to live foods to avoid parasites and bacterial infections that could be present in live foods. Due to their upturned eyes they have poor vision and a harder time seeing their food, so need extra time to feed.

 

  • Diet Type: Omnivore

  • Flake Food: No

  • Tablet Pellet: No

  • Live foods (fishes, shrimps, worms): Some of Diet

  • Vegetable Food: Some of Diet

  • Meaty Food: Some of Diet

  • Feeding Frequency: Several feedings per day - This fish has poor vision and is a poor swimmer and as such will easily be outcompeted for food.

 

 

Aquarium Care

 

Regular weekly water changes of 1/4 to 1/3 is strongly recommended to keep these fish healthy. Snails can be added as they reduce the algae in the tank, helping to keep it clean.

 

  • Water Changes: Weekly

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

 

 

 

Aquarium Setup : 

 

Setting up a goldfish aquarium in a manner that will keep your fish happy and healthy is the first step to success. The shape and size of the aquarium is important and depends upon the number of goldfish you are going to keep. These fish need a lot of oxygen and produce a lot of waste.

 

Good filtration, especially biological filtration, is very helpful in maintaining the water quality of the aquarium. Filtration systems remove much of the detritus, excess foods and waste. This in turn helps to keep the tank clean and maintain the general health of the goldfish.

 

Tank parameters to consider when choosing a goldfish aquarium:

 

  • Tank sizeTen gallons is the absolute minimum required to house a Celestial Eye Goldfish. It's best to start with a 20 - 30 gallon tank for your first goldfish and then increase the size of the tank by 10 gallons for each additional goldfish. Providing a large amount of water per fish will help dilute the amount of waste and reduce the number of water changes needed..

  • Tank ShapeAlways provide the maximum amount of surface area. A large surface area of water will help minimize goldfish suffering from an oxygen shortage. Surface area is determined by the shape of the tank. For example an elongated tank offers more surface area (and oxygen) than a tall tank. In an oval or round shaped tank the middle offers more surface area than filling it to the top.

  • Number of fishFor juveniles a general rule of thumb is 1 inch of fish (2.54 cm) per 1 gallon of water. But this rule only applies to young fish and is not adequate as they grow. Larger gold fish consume much more oxygen than young fish so maintaining this formula for growing fish will stunt them, and can contribute to disease and even death.

  • Fish size and growthTo allow for proper growth, either buy fewer fish than the maximum number or be prepared to get a larger tank. To prevent stunted growth and other health problems, don't overstocking the aquarium.

Goldfish are a cold water fish and will do best at temperatures between 65 - 72° F (18°- 22° C). Unlike the flat-bodied types of goldfish however, the Celestial Eye have a lower tolerance for pollution and cannot tolerate temperatures much below 60° F (16° C).

 

Provide a gravel substrate to help create a natural and comfortable environment for your fish. You can add some decor, but keep in mind that the eyes of the Celestial Eye Goldfish are a handicap and these fish have very poor vision. Make sure that all ornamentation is smooth with no protruding points or sharp edges. Smooth rocks or driftwood, should be used sparingly if at all. Aquarium plants would be the best choice of aquarium decor for goldfish, but unfortunately these fish are diggers. Consequently live plants may be uprooted. Artificial plants make a good substitute and silk plants are safer than plastic ones.

 

Most aquariums come with a cover that includes lighting. A cover for the tank is desirable as it reduces evaporation and though they are not prone to jumping, on occasion some gold fish will jump out. Lighting is not essential for goldfish in general, but it can help the Celestial Eye Goldfish as these fish have such poor eyesight. It does makes the aquarium a nice show piece and is needed if you have live plants.

 

Goldfish are freshwater fish, but they have some tolerance for slightly brackish water. The salinity level for C. auratusmust be kept low, below 10% with a specific gravity of less than 1.002.

 

  • Minimum Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L) - Ten gallons is the absolute minimum required to house this fish. It has high oxygen requirements, produces a lot of waste. It will have very stunted growth if it is kept in a smaller aquarium.

  • Suitable for Nano Tank: Sometimes

  • Substrate Type: Any

  • Lighting Needs: Moderate - normal lighting

  • Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C) - Goldfish can handle colder temperatures, but the Celestial Eye Goldfish cannot tolerate much below 60° F (16° C).

  • Range ph: 6.0-8.0

  • Hardness Range: 5 - 19 dGH

  • Brackish: Sometimes - Goldfish are freshwater fish, but they have some tolerance for slightly brackish water. Any salinity for must be kept low, below 10%, a specific gravity of less than 1.002.

  • Water Movement: Moderate

  • Water Region: All - These fish will swim in all areas of the aquarium.

 

Social Behaviors : 

 

Goldfish are very social animals and thrive in a community. Not only are they a great community fish but they are great scavengers as well. These goldfish cannot readily compete for food with fast moving types of goldfish, so may not fare well if kept with them. Because they are great scavengers, it is really not necessary to add other scavengers or other bottom feeders to the aquarium when you have goldfish.

 

When choosing tank mates, keep in mind the physical traits of the Celestial Eye Goldfish. Like the Telescope Goldfish, Bubble Eye Gold fish and the Lionhead Goldfish, it is visually handicapped. Further its swimming ability is cumbersome because of its rounded body and the lack of a stabilizing dorsal fin, a trait that is also seen in the Lionhead and the Water-Bubble Eye Goldfish. While the Celestial Eye cannot readily compete for food with fast swimming types of goldfish, these similarly handicapped varieties can make good companions.

 

  • Venomous: No

  • Temperament: Peaceful

  • Compatible with:

    • Same species - conspecifics: Yes

    • Peaceful fish (): Safe

    • Semi-Aggressive (): Threat

    • Shrimps, Crabs, Snails: Safe - not aggressive

    • Plants: Threat - Goldfish will eat many kinds of aquatic plants, and their constant search for food can end up uprooting plants that they don't eat.

 

Sex: Sexual differences

 

Although is it impossible to sex Goldfish when they are young and not in breeding season, the male is usually smaller and more slender that the female. In the breeding season the male has white prickles, called breeding tubercles, on its gill covers and head. Seen from above the female will have a fatter appearance as she is carrying eggs.

 

Breeding / Reproduction:

 

Celestial Eye Goldfish are egg layers that spawn readily in the right conditions. See Breeding Freshwater Fish - Goldfish for more information on breeding Goldfish.

 

 

 

  • Ease of Breeding: Moderate

 

 

 

 

Fish Diseases : 

 

Goldfish are subject to the same diseases as tropical fish. A couple of the more common problems are Ich, Swim Bladder Disease, and external parasites including flukes, lice and anchor worms. For more in-depth information about goldfish diseases and illnesses, 

 

References  :

  • Animal-World References: Freshwater Fish and Plants

  • David Alderton, Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish , DK Publishing, Inc., 2005.

  • Marshall E. Ostrow, Goldfish (Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manuals), Barron's Educational Series, Inc. 2003

  • Geoff Rogers, Nick Fletcher, Focus on Freshwater Aquarium Fish, Firefly Books. 2004

  • David Sands, Goldfish (Caring for Your Pet), Interpet Publishing, 1999

 

4-Comet Goldfish:

 

 

Comet-tail Goldfish, Sarasa Comet, Pond Comet

 

Comet Goldfish look just like regular goldfish but with a much longer, deeper forked tail fin!

 

The Comet Goldfish is also called the Comet-tail Goldfish or Pond Comet.This fish was the first variety of the single-tail goldfish to be developed with a long caudal (tail) fin. It was developed in the United States from the Common Goldfish in the early 19th century, presumably by Hugo Mullert of Philadelphia who then introduced them in quantity into the market.

 

Being a further development of the Common Goldfish, the Comet is very similar to it. This sometimes causes confusion, especially since both these fish have an almost identical body shape. However the fins on the Comet Goldfish are much longer, especially the caudal (tail) fin. Its caudal fin is also more deeply forked. On both these fish the caudal fin is held fully erect.

 

The adult size of the Comet Goldfish is smaller too. Yet even though they are a bit smaller goldfish than the Common Goldfish, they are every bit as durable and can be kept in either an aquarium or in an outdoor pond. Both are inexpensive and readily available.

 

The Comet is generally a more reddish orange in color while the Common Goldfish is more orangish. Their primarily color is the reddish orange, but they are also available in yellow, orange, white, and red. They can also be found as a bi-color red/white combination and occasionally they are available with nacreous (pearly) scales, giving them a variegated color.

 

Other types of Comet include the Sarasa Comet. This variety has long flowing fins and is characterized by a red-and-white coloration that holds a resemblance to a koi color pattern called 'Kohaku'. The Tancho Single-tail Comet is a silver colored variety with a red patch on its head.

 

One of the hardiest of the gold fish varieties, the Comet Goldfish are recommended for beginners. They are an easy fish to keep as they are not picky and will readily eat what is offered.

 

These fish can be quite personable and are delightful to watch. They are some of the most graceful of the elongated goldfish, emphasized by their long tail. They are active, rapid swimmers and tend to leap out of the water occasionally, so having a lid on an aquarium is good idea. They are also very social and thrive well in a community.

 

Along with the other elongated goldfish, such as the Common Goldfish and the Shubunkin Goldfish, the Comet varieties make good pond fish. They are hardy and can tolerate cold water temperatures. They are moderate in size but are active and fast, so will get along well with Koi. Also Comets usually won't uproot plants, but they will readily spawn so can quickly overpopulate your pond.

 

-Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner

-Size of fish - inches: 4.0 inches (10.16 cm)

-Minimum Tank Size: 15 gal (57 L)

-Temperament: Peaceful

-Aquarium Hardiness: Very Hardy

-Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C)

 

 

 

 

Habitat: Distribution / Background : 

 

The goldfish of today are descendants of a wild carp fish, known as the Prussian Carp, Silver Prussian carp, or Gibel CarpCarassius gibelio (syn: Carassius auratus gibelio) which was described by Bloch in 1782. For many years it was believed that goldfish had originated from the Crucian Carp or Golden Carp Carassius auratus auratus described by Linnaeus in 1758, but more recent research is pointing toward the former.

 

These wild carp originated in Asia; Central Asia (siberia). They inhabit the slow moving and stagnant waters of rivers, lakes, ponds, and ditches feeding on plants, detritus, small crustaceans, and insects.

 

Goldfish were originally developed in China, but by the 1500's goldfish were traded to Japan, to Europe in the 1600's, and to America by the 1800's. The majority of the fancy goldfish were being developed by Oriental breeders. The results of this centuries long endeavor is the wonderful goldfish colors and forms we see today. Today domesticated goldfish are distributed world-wide.

 

The Comet Goldfish was the first variety of the single-tail goldfish to be developed with a long caudal (tail) fin. It was developed in the United States from the Common Goldfish in the early 19th century, presumably by Hugo Mullert of Philadelphia who then introduced them in quantity into the market. It is one of the more than 125 captive bred varieties of goldfish that have been developed.

 

  • Scientific Name: Carassius auratus auratus

  • Social Grouping: Groups

  • IUCN Red List: NE - Not Evaluated or not listed - There are no wild populations of this captive bred variety.

Description :

 

The Comet Goldfish is an elongated, flat-bodied variety of goldfish. The head is wide but short and it has a smoothly tapering body shape, from its back and belly to the base of its caudal fin (tail fin). The caudal fin is long, deeply forked and generally stands fully erect. Comets have a natural life span of up to 14 years, though possibly longer if kept in optimal conditions.

 

The Comet Goldfish is a bit smaller than the Common Goldfish, but even so, the environment it is kept in is a determining factor on whether your pet grows to its full potential size or is somewhat smaller. In an average 10 gallon tank, if well cared for and not crowded, they can grow up to about 4 inches (10 cm), while in a larger uncrowded tank they can grow larger generally reaching about 7 or 8 inches (17.78 - 20.32 cm). If kept in a spacious pond they can reach over 12 inches (30+ cm).

 

They are primarily a reddish orange color, but they are also available in yellow, orange, white, and red. There are also a bi-color red/white combination and occasionally they are available with nacreous (pearly) scales, giving them a variegated color.

 

Comet Goldfish can and do naturally change color, but color changes are believed to be influenced by diet and the amount of light. Aquarists often report the reds and oranges of their goldfish changing to white. A fresh diet, along with good lighting but with shaded areas are suggested as the best way to maintain the original coloration, but are not always successful.

 

Other types of Comet Goldfish include the Sarasa Comet. This variety has long flowing fins and is characterized by a red-and-white coloration that holds a resemblance to a koi color pattern called 'Kohaku'. The Tancho Single-tail Comet is a silver colored variety with a red patch on its head.

 

  • Size of fish - inches: 4.0 inches (10.16 cm) - Comet goldfish housed in small aquariums will have stunted growth that will limit their size to four inches. In larger aquariums they will reach about eight inches, and up to twelve in a pond.

  • Lifespan: 14 years - Comets have a natural life span of up to 14 years, though possibly longer if kept in optimal conditions.

 

Fish Keeping Difficulty :

 

Comet Goldfish are some of the hardier species of goldfish. They are very undemanding of water quality and temperature. They can do well in a goldfish aquarium, or even a pond as long as the environment is safe and their tank mates are not competitive.

 

Many people will keep goldfish in an aquarium with no heater or filtration, but for the best success provide them the same filtration, especially biological filtration, that other aquarium residents enjoy.

 

  • Aquarium Hardiness: Very Hardy - Take care that you invest in quality stock. Although comets can be bought very inexpensively as feeder fish, this stock will often be disease ridden and certainly not bred for longevity.

  • Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner

 

 

Foods and Feeding : 

 

Since they are omnivorous, the Celestial Eye Goldfish will generally eat all kinds of fresh, frozen, and flake foods. To keep a good balance give them a high quality flake food everyday. Feed brine shrimp (either live or frozen), blood worms, Daphnia, or tubifex worms as a treat. It is usually better to feed freeze-dried foods as opposed to live foods to avoid parasites and bacterial infections that could be present in live foods. Due to their upturned eyes they have poor vision and a harder time seeing their food, so need extra time to feed.

 

  • Diet Type: Omnivore

  • Flake Food: No

  • Tablet Pellet: No

  • Live foods (fishes, shrimps, worms): Some of Diet

  • Vegetable Food: Some of Diet

  • Meaty Food: Some of Diet

  • Feeding Frequency: Several feedings per day  

 

 

Aquarium Care

 

Regular weekly water changes of 1/4 to 1/3 is strongly recommended to keep these fish healthy. Snails can be added as they reduce the algae in the tank, helping to keep it clean.

 

  • Water Changes: Weekly

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

 

 

 

Aquarium Setup : 

 

Setting up a goldfish aquarium in a manner that will keep your fish happy and healthy is the first step to success. The shape and size of the aquarium is important and depends upon the number of goldfish you are going to keep. These fish need a lot of oxygen and produce a lot of waste.

 

Good filtration, especially biological filtration, is very helpful in maintaining the water quality of the aquarium. Filtration systems remove much of the detritus, excess foods and waste. This in turn helps to keep the tank clean and maintain the general health of the goldfish.

 

Tank parameters to consider when choosing a goldfish aquarium:

 

  • Tank sizeTen gallons is the absolute minimum required to house a Celestial Eye Goldfish. It's best to start with a 20 - 30 gallon tank for your first goldfish and then increase the size of the tank by 10 gallons for each additional goldfish. Providing a large amount of water per fish will help dilute the amount of waste and reduce the number of water changes needed..

  • Tank ShapeAlways provide the maximum amount of surface area. A large surface area of water will help minimize goldfish suffering from an oxygen shortage. Surface area is determined by the shape of the tank. For example an elongated tank offers more surface area (and oxygen) than a tall tank. In an oval or round shaped tank the middle offers more surface area than filling it to the top.

  • Number of fishFor juveniles a general rule of thumb is 1 inch of fish (2.54 cm) per 1 gallon of water. But this rule only applies to young fish and is not adequate as they grow. Larger gold fish consume much more oxygen than young fish so maintaining this formula for growing fish will stunt them, and can contribute to disease and even death.

  • Fish size and growthTo allow for proper growth, either buy fewer fish than the maximum number or be prepared to get a larger tank. To prevent stunted growth and other health problems, don't overstocking the aquarium.

Sex: Sexual differences:

 

During the breeding season the male has white prickles, called breeding tubercles, on its gill covers and head. Seen from above a female will have a fatter appearance when she is carrying eggs. It is impossible to sex Goldfish when they are young and not in breeding season, but generally the male is smaller and more slender than the female.

 

Breeding / Reproduction:

 

Goldfish are egg layers that spawn readily in the right conditions. See Breeding Freshwater Fish - Goldfish for more information on breeding Goldfish.

 

 

  • Ease of Breeding: Easy

 

 

 

 

Fish Diseases : 

 

Goldfish are subject to the same diseases as tropical fish. A couple of the more common problems are Ich, Swim Bladder Disease, and external parasites including flukes, lice and anchor worms. For more in-depth information about goldfish diseases and illnesses, 

 

References  :

  • Animal-World References: Freshwater Fish and Plants

  • David Alderton, Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish , DK Publishing, Inc., 2005.

  • Marshall E. Ostrow, Goldfish (Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manuals), Barron's Educational Series, Inc. 2003

  • Geoff Rogers, Nick Fletcher, Focus on Freshwater Aquarium Fish, Firefly Books. 2004

  • David Sands, Goldfish (Caring for Your Pet), Interpet Publishing, 1999

 

Social Behaviors : 

 

Goldfish are very social animals and thrive in a community. Not only are they a great community fish but they are great scavengers as well. These goldfish cannot readily compete for food with fast moving types of goldfish, so may not fare well if kept with them. Because they are great scavengers, it is really not necessary to add other scavengers or other bottom feeders to the aquarium when you have goldfish.

 

Most fancy goldfish will thrive in both freshwater and tropical aquariums as long as there are no aggressive or territorial fish in the tank. Some good tank mates for fancy goldfish are the Chinese Blue Bitterling and the Northern Redbelly Dace. Comet Goldfish can be kept with other varieties of elongated goldfish, such as the Common Goldfish and the Shubunkin, and they also do fine with Koi.

 

  • Venomous: No

  • Temperament: Peaceful

  • Compatible with:

    • Same species - conspecifics: Yes

    • Peaceful fish (): Safe

    • Semi-Aggressive (): Threat

    • Shrimps, Crabs, Snails: Safe - not aggressive

    • Plants: Threat - Goldfish will eat many kinds of aquatic plants, and their constant search for food can end up uprooting plants that they don't eat.

 

Goldfish are a cold water fish and will do best at temperatures between 65 - 72° F (18°- 22° C). Unlike the flat-bodied types of goldfish however, the Celestial Eye have a lower tolerance for pollution and cannot tolerate temperatures much below 60° F (16° C).

 

Provide a gravel substrate to help create a natural and comfortable environment for your fish. You can add some decor, but keep in mind that the eyes of the Celestial Eye Goldfish are a handicap and these fish have very poor vision. Make sure that all ornamentation is smooth with no protruding points or sharp edges. Smooth rocks or driftwood, should be used sparingly if at all. Aquarium plants would be the best choice of aquarium decor for goldfish, but unfortunately these fish are diggers. Consequently live plants may be uprooted. Artificial plants make a good substitute and silk plants are safer than plastic ones.

 

Most aquariums come with a cover that includes lighting. A cover for the tank is desirable as it reduces evaporation and though they are not prone to jumping, on occasion some gold fish will jump out. Lighting is not essential for goldfish in general, but it can help the Celestial Eye Goldfish as these fish have such poor eyesight. It does makes the aquarium a nice show piece and is needed if you have live plants.

  • Minimum Tank Size: 15 gal (57 L) - Fifteen gallons is the recommended minimum to house this active fish. It has high oxygen requirements, produces a lot of waste, and will have stunted growth if it is kept in a smaller aquarium.

  • Suitable for Nano Tank: Sometimes - A Nano tank is fine as long as it is 15 gallons or more, a larger tank will be needed for a community.

  • Substrate Type: Any - A medium sized gravel works best.

  • Lighting Needs: Moderate - normal lighting

  • Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C) - Goldfish can tolerate colder temperatures, but this is the optimum range for activity and longevity in Goldfish.

  • Range ph: 6.0-8.0

  • Hardness Range: 5 - 19 dGH

  • Brackish: Sometimes - Goldfish are freshwater fish, but they have some tolerance for slightly brackish water. Any salinity for must be kept low, below 10%, a specific gravity of less than 1.002.

  • Water Movement: Moderate

  • Water Region: All - These fish will swim in all areas of the aquarium.

 

5-Common Goldfish :

 

Goldfish

Family: Cyprinidae

 

Goldfish are fun to watch... just look at all the different colors of these beautiful fish!

The Common Goldfish Carassius gibelio (previously Carassius auratus auratus) are hardy fish that are well known by all aquarists. They are colorful, inexpensive, and readily available. These fish are a favorite pet for a multitude of keepers because they can be quite personable and are delightful to watch.

 

The Common Goldfish is a small member of the Cyprinidae family of carp fish. The popular Koi fish commonly kept in ponds is also a member of the carp family. The C. gibelio was normally a silver or gray color but early in the Jin Dynasty, somewhere between the years 265 - 420, it was noted that there was a natural genetic mutation producing a yellowish orange color.

 

It became common practice to breed this pretty golden fish, and over time a large variety of breeds of varying shapes and sizes have been developed. Other natural mutations are red and yellow. Today they are available in various solid colors and combinations of white, yellow, orange, red, brown, and black.

 

These are one of the hardiest of the gold fish varieties. They have a history of often being the first fish new aquarists will keep. A choice beginner fish because they are one of the easiest fish to keep. They can handle a variety of aquarium conditions and are also not picky, readily eating what is offered. Selecting them is also fun because they have come in such a diverse mix of colors.

 

Most freshwater aquarium fish are tropical fish but goldfish are an exception. These are coldwater fish, preferring a tank kept between between 65 - 72° F (18°- 22° C). Still, these durable fellows are very versatile and can tolerate tropical temperatures all the way down to a few degrees above freezing, as long as the cooling drops only a few degrees a day. They can be maintained without a heater or a filter, as long as the water is changed out frequently.

 

These are active fish and they can swim fairly fast, but they are also very social. They thrive well in a community. Along with the other elongated goldfish, such as the Comet Goldfish and the Shubunkin Goldfish, they make good pond fish. They are fast and so can get along well with Koi as well, but they will readily spawn, and so can quickly overpopulate your pond.

 

If they are kept in a community with other freshwater fish, then the aquarium needs to be designed for the needs of the other fish. Not only will it need a heater, but it will also need a good filtration system. Goldfish place a much heavier bioload on the aquarium than most other tropical fish, so more frequent water changes will have to be performed as well to keep the water quality up.

 

-Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner

-Size of fish - inches: 4.0 inches (10.16 cm)

-Minimum Tank Size: 15 gal (57 L)

-Temperament: Peaceful

-Aquarium Hardiness: Very Hardy

-Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C)

 

 

 

 

 

Habitat: Distribution / Background : 

 

The goldfish of today are descendants of a wild carp fish, known as the Prussian Carp, Silver Prussian carp, or Gibel CarpCarassius gibelio (syn: Carassius auratus gibelio) which was described by Bloch in 1782. For many years it was believed that goldfish had originated from the Crucian Carp or Golden Carp Carassius auratus auratus described by Linnaeus in 1758, but more recent research is pointing toward the former.

 

These wild carp originated in Asia; Central Asia (siberia). They inhabit the slow moving and stagnant waters of rivers, lakes, ponds, and ditches feeding on plants, detritus, small crustaceans, and insects.

 

Goldfish were originally developed in China, but by the 1500's goldfish were traded to Japan, to Europe in the 1600's, and to America by the 1800's. The majority of the fancy goldfish were being developed by Oriental breeders. The results of this centuries long endeavor is the wonderful goldfish colors and forms we see today. Today domesticated goldfish are distributed world-wide.

 

The Comet Goldfish was the first variety of the single-tail goldfish to be developed with a long caudal (tail) fin. It was developed in the United States from the Common Goldfish in the early 19th century, presumably by Hugo Mullert of Philadelphia who then introduced them in quantity into the market. It is one of the more than 125 captive bred varieties of goldfish that have been developed.

  • Scientific Name: Carassius auratus auratus

  • Social Grouping: Groups

  • IUCN Red List: NE - Not Evaluated or not listed - There are no wild populations of this captive bred variety.

 

Description:

 

The Common Goldfish is an elongated, flat-bodied variety of goldfish. The head is wide but short and it has a smoothly tapering body shape from its back and belly to the base of its caudal fin (tail fin). The caudal fin is forked. Its fins generally stand fully erect and the edge of the dorsal fin is slightly concave.

 

The average goldfish lifespan is 10 – 15 years, though living 20 years or more is not uncommon in well maintained goldfish aquariums and ponds.

 

The environment the Common Goldfish is kept in is a determining factor on whether your pet grows to its full potential size or is somewhat smaller. In an average 10 gallon tank, if well cared for and not crowded, they can grow up to about 4 inches (10 cm). In a larger, uncrowded tank they can grow generally reach about 7 or 8 inches (17.78 - 20.32 cm). If kept in a spacious pond they can reach over 12 inches (30+ cm) with some hobbyist reporting their goldfish reaching up to a whopping 18" (45+ cm)!

 

There are various solid colors and combinations of white, yellow, orange, red, brown, and black. The most distinguished specimen is a bright orange metallic color.

 

The Common Goldfish is very similar to, and sometimes confused with, the Comet Goldfish. The Comet is a further development of the Common Goldfish. Both these fish have an almost identical body shape but the fins on the Comet are much longer, especially the caudal (tail) fin, and it is more deeply forked. Also, in the standard orange color the Comet is generally a more reddish orange while the Common Goldfish is more orangish. The adult size of the Comet Goldfish is smaller too. On both these fish the caudal (tail) fin is held fully erect.

 

Also, in the standard orange color the Comet is generally a more reddish orange while the Common Goldfish is more orangish. The adult size of the Comet Goldfish is smaller too. On both these fish the caudal (tail) fin is held fully erect.

 

Another goldfish that is almost identical to the Common Goldfish is the 'London' type of Shubunkin Goldfish. Both these fish have virtually the same body and fin shapes, but the London type Shubunkin Goldfish has a totally different body color. While a good specimen of the Common Goldfish will have a bright orange metallic color, this London type Shubunkin goldfish can be speckled or have a variegated color pattern.

 

  • Size of fish - inches: 4.0 inches (10.16 cm) - Average size is 4" (10. cm) but can reach about 7 or 8 inches (18 - 20 cm) if not crowded. If kept in a spacious pond they can reach over 12 inches (30+ cm). Some hobbyist report their Common Goldfish reaching up to a whopping 18" (45+ cm).

  • Lifespan: 15 years - The average goldfish lifespan is 10 – 15 years, but they have been known to live 20 years or more when well maintained.

Fish Keeping Difficulty : 

 

Common Goldfish are some of the hardier species of goldfish. They are very undemanding of water quality and temperature. They can do well in a goldfish aquarium, or even a pond as long as the environment is safe and their tank mates are not competitive.

 

Many people will keep goldfish in an aquarium with no heater or filtration, but for the best success provide them the same filtration, especially biological filtration, that other aquarium residents enjoy.

 

  • Aquarium Hardiness: Very Hardy

  • Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner

 

 

Foods and Feeding: 

 

Since they are omnivorous, the Common Goldfish will generally eat all kinds of fresh, frozen, and flake foods. To keep a good balance give them a high quality flake food everyday. To care for your goldfish, feed brine shrimp (either live or frozen), blood worms, Daphnia, or tubifex worms as a treat. It is usually better to feed freeze-dried foods as opposed to live foods to avoid parasites and bacterial infections that could be present in live foods.

 

  • Diet Type: Omnivore

  • Flake Food: Yes

  • Tablet Pellet: Yes

  • Live foods (fishes, shrimps, worms): Some of Diet

  • Vegetable Food: Some of Diet

  • Meaty Food: Some of Diet

  • Feeding Frequency: Several feedings per day

Aquarium Care:

 

Regular weekly water changes of 1/4 to 1/3 is strongly recommended to keep these fish healthy. Snails can be added as they reduce the algae in the tank, helping to keep it clean.

 

  • Water Changes: Weekly

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

 

 

Aquarium Setup: 

 

Setting up a goldfish aquarium in a manner that will keep your fish happy and healthy is the first step to success. The shape and size of the aquarium is important and depends upon the number of goldfish you are going to keep. These fish need a lot of oxygen and produce a lot of waste.

 

Good filtration, especially biological filtration, is very helpful in maintaining the water quality of the aquarium. Filtration systems remove much of the detritus, excess foods and waste. This in turn helps to keep the tank clean and maintain the general health of the goldfish.

 

Goldfish are freshwater fish, but they have some tolerance for slightly brackish water. The salinity level for goldfish must be kept low, below 10% with a specific gravity of less than 1.002.

 

Tank parameters to consider when choosing a goldfish aquarium:

 

  • Tank sizeFifteen gallons is the absolute minimum required to house a common Goldfish. It's best to start with a 20 - 30 gallon tank for your first goldfish and then increase the size of the tank by 10 gallons for each additional goldfish. Providing a large amount of water per fish will help dilute the amount of waste and reduce the number of water changes needed.

  • Tank ShapeAlways provide the maximum amount of surface area. A large surface area of water will help minimize goldfish suffering from an oxygen shortage. Surface area is determined by the shape of the tank. For example an elongated tank offers more surface area (and oxygen) than a tall tank. In an oval or round shaped tank the middle offers more surface area than filling it to the top.

  • Number of fishFor juveniles a general rule of thumb is 1 inch of fish (2.54 cm) per 1 gallon of water. But this rule only applies to young fish and is not adequate as they grow. Larger gold fish consume much more oxygen than young fish so maintaining this formula for growing fish will stunt them, and can contribute to disease and even death.

  • Fish size and growthTo allow for proper growth, either buy fewer fish than the maximum number or be prepared to get a larger tank. To prevent stunted growth and other health problems, don't overstocking the aquarium.

Goldfish are a cold water fish and will do best at temperatures between 65 - 72° F (18°- 22° C). The Common Goldfish are one of the most hardy varieties of goldfish and can tolerate temperatures a few degrees above freezing, as long as the cooling drops only a few degrees a day. A quick temperature drop can kill them, so if you live in a very cold climate a heater is advisable.

 

Provide a gravel substrate to help create a natural and comfortable environment for your fish. You can add some decor, but make sure that all ornamentation is smooth with no protruding points or sharp edges. Smooth rocks or driftwood should be used sparingly if at all. Aquarium plants would be the best choice of aquarium decor for goldfish, but unfortunately these fish are diggers. Consequently live plants may be uprooted. Artificial plants make a good substitute and silk plants are safer than plastic ones.

 

Most aquariums come with a cover that includes lighting. A cover for the tank is desirable as it reduces evaporation and though they are not prone to jumping, on occasion some gold fish will jump out. Lighting is not essential for goldfish, but does make the aquarium a nice show piece and lighting will help if you have live plants.

 

  • Minimum Tank Size: 15 gal (57 L) - 15 gallons is the absolute minimum for this variety of Goldfish, and 25 gallons is really best. This fish can grow to over a foot in length, keeping it in a small tank will stunt its growth and cause irreversible damage.

  • Suitable for Nano Tank: Sometimes - A Nano tank is fine as long as it is 15 gallons or more, a larger tank will be needed for a community.

  • Substrate Type: Any - Any A medium sized gravel works best.

  • Lighting Needs: Moderate - normal lighting

  • Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C) - Goldfish can tolerate colder temperatures, but this is the optimum range for activity and longevity in Goldfish.

  • Range ph: 6.0-8.0

  • Hardness Range: 5 - 19 dGH

  • Brackish: Sometimes - Goldfish are freshwater fish, but they have some tolerance for slightly brackish water. Any salinity for must be kept low, below 10%, a specific gravity of less than 1.002.

  • Water Movement: Moderate

  • Water Region: All - These fish will swim in all areas of the aquarium.

 

Social Behaviors :

 

Goldfish are very social animals and thrive in a community. Not only are they a great community fish but they are great scavengers as well. It is really not necessary to add other scavengers or other bottom feeders to the aquarium when you have goldfish.

 

Most fancy goldfish will thrive in both freshwater and tropical aquariums as long as there are no aggressive or territorial fish in the tank. Some good tank mates for fancy goldfish are the Chinese Blue Bitterling and the Northern Redbelly Dace.

 

Common Goldfish can be kept with other varieties of elongated goldfish, such as the Comet Goldfish and the Shubunkin, and they also do fine with Koi.

 

  • Venomous: No

  • Temperament: Peaceful - This fish is active and friendly.

  • Compatible with:

    • Same species - conspecifics: Yes

    • Peaceful fish (): Safe

    • Semi-Aggressive (): Threat

    • Aggressive (): Threat

    • Shrimps, Crabs, Snails: Safe - not aggressive

    • Plants: Threat - Goldfish produce more waste than most other freshwater fish and benefit greatly from more frequent water changes.

Sex: Sexual differences:

 

Although is it impossible to sex Goldfish when they are young and not in breeding season, the male is usually smaller and more slender that the female. In the breeding season the male has white prickles, called breeding tubercles, on its gill covers and head. Seen from above the female will have a fatter appearance as she is carrying eggs.

 

Breeding / Reproduction:

 

Common Goldfish are egg layers that spawn readily in the right conditions. See Breeding Freshwater Fish - Goldfishfor more information on breeding Goldfish.

 

  • Ease of Breeding: Easy

 

Fish Diseases:

 

Goldfish are subject to the same diseases as tropical fish. A couple of the more common problems are Ich, Swim Bladder Disease, and external parasites including flukes, lice and anchor worms. For more in-depth information about goldfish diseases and illnesses

 

References

  • Animal-World References: Freshwater Fish and Plants

  • Prussian carp, Wikipedia

  • David Alderton, Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish , DK Publishing, Inc., 2005

  • Marshall E. Ostrow, Goldfish (Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manuals), Barron's Educational Series, Inc. 2003

  • Geoff Rogers, Nick Fletcher, Focus on Freshwater Aquarium Fish, Firefly Books. 2004

  • David Sands, Goldfish (Caring for Your Pet), Interpet Publishing, 1999

 

 Common Goldfish 

Comet Goldfish 

Comet  Goldfish 

6-Fantail Goldfish : 

 

Show Goldfish, Fancy Goldfish

Family: Cyprinidae

 

The Fantail is a show goldfish with its distinguishing feature being a split, or double, tailfin!

 

Rather than having the long slender body of the Common Goldfish or the Shubunkins, the Fantail Goldfish is one of the more rounded or egg-shaped fancy gold fish. These fish are bred for showing and its main feature, the split tail fin is medium in length and slightly forked.

 

To be a good show specimen, the tail fin needs to be completely split with the two lobes being much closer together on top than on the bottom, making it look triangular when viewed from the back. Good show goldfish also have a double anal fin with complete separation. Those whose tail fins are not completely split won't win any prizes, but still make great pets.

 

Fantail Goldfish are available in several scale types or color. The hardiest and most competitive show type is metallic, a solid reddish orange. Other scale types include nacreous which is speckled, and matt which is a whitish color. The Ryukin Goldfish is a Japanese version of the Fantail, with a highly curved back and a wider caudal fin than the Fantail Goldfish.

 

The Fantail Goldfish and the Ryukin are both recommended for the beginner. Other good beginner fancy goldfish are Common Goldfish, Comet Goldfish, the Shubunkin, and the Black Moor. All these fish can tolerate temperatures a few degrees above freezing, as long as the cooling drops only a few degrees a day.

 

Their hardiness and ability to live at colder temperatures makes them ideal for outdoor ponds. The Black Moor is the only possible exception to this, not because it lacks hardiness but because of its telescopic eyes. These eyes cause it to have poor vision so it is not a good competitor for food, and they are subject to injury and infection.

 

  • Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner

  • Size of fish - inches: 6.0 inches (15.24 cm)

  • Minimum Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L)

  • Temperament: Peaceful

  • Aquarium Hardiness: Very Hardy

  • Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C)

Habitat: Distribution / Background

 

The goldfish of today are descendants of a wild carp fish, known as the Prussian Carp, Silver Prussian carp, or Gibel CarpCarassius gibelio (syn: Carassius auratus gibelio) which was described by Bloch in 1782. For many years it was believed that goldfish had originated from the Crucian Carp or Golden CarpCarassius auratus auratus described by Linnaeus in 1758, but more recent research is pointing toward the former. These wild carp originated in Asia; Central Asia (siberia). They inhabit the slow moving and stagnant waters of rivers, lakes, ponds, and ditches feeding on plants, detritus, small crustaceans, and insects.

 

In the early 1500's these fish were exported first to Japan and then to Europe and were developed into the wonderful colors and forms of gold fish we see today. The Fantail Goldfish is one of the more than 125 captive bred fancy gold fish varieties.

 

  • Scientific Name: Carassius auratus auratus

  • Social Grouping: Groups

  • IUCN Red List: NE - Not Evaluated or not listed

 

 

Description:

 

The Fantail Goldfish are available in three scale types: metallic, a solid reddish orange, nacreous which is speckled, and matt which is a whitish color. They are an egg-shaped variety of goldfish. The body is short and stubby and the head is very wide. The average goldfish lifespan is 10 – 15 years, though living 20 years or more is not uncommon in well maintained goldfish aquariums and ponds.

 

A Japanese version of the Fantail, the Ryukin Goldfish has a highly curved back and a wider caudal fin than the Fantail Goldfish. Both Fantail Goldfish and Ryukin Goldfish will generally reach about 6 inches (15 cm), though some hobbyist report their Fantails reaching up to a whopping 10- 12" (25-30+ cm).

 

These fish are bred for showing and its main feature is its split caudal fin (tail fin) that is moderate in length and slightly forked. On good show goldfish the tail fin is completely split with the two lobes being much closer together on top than on the bottom, making it look triangular when viewed from the back. Good show specimens will have a double anal fin with complete separation as well. The tail fin on poor show specimens is not completely split along the top.

 

  • Size of fish - inches: 6.0 inches (15.24 cm) - Average size is 6" (15 cm), but have been reported to reach 10- 12" (25-30+ cm).

  • Lifespan: 15 years - The average goldfish lifespan is 10 – 15 years, but they have been known to live 20 years of more when well maintained.

Fish Keeping Difficulty : 

 

Fantail Goldfish are some of the hardier species of goldfish. They are very undemanding of water quality and temperature, and recommended for the beginner. The metallic scale type (solid reddish orange) is the the most durable of this fancy goldfish group.

 

Many people will keep goldfish in an aquarium with no heater or filtration. But for the best success in keeping goldfish, provide them the same filtration, especially biological filtration, that other aquarium residents enjoy.

 

  • Aquarium Hardiness: Very Hardy

  • Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner

 

 

Foods and Feeding : 

 

Since they are omnivorous, the Fantail Goldfish will generally eat all kinds of fresh, frozen, and flake foods. To keep a good balance give them a high quality flake food everyday. To care for your goldfish, feed brine shrimp (either live or frozen), blood worms, Daphnia, or tubifex worms as a treat. It is usually better to feed freeze-dried foods as opposed to live foods to avoid parasites and bacterial infections that could be present in live foods.

 

  • Diet Type: Omnivore

  • Flake Food: Yes

  • Tablet Pellet: Yes

  • Live foods (fishes, shrimps, worms): Some of Diet

  • Vegetable Food: Some of Diet

  • Meaty Food: Some of Diet

  • Feeding Frequency: Several feedings per day

 

Aquarium Care : 

 

Regular weekly water changes of 1/4 to 1/3 is strongly recommended to keep these fish healthy. Snails can be added as they reduce the algae in the tank, helping to keep it clean.

 

  • Water Changes: Weekly

 

Aquarium Setup : 

 

Setting up a goldfish aquarium in a manner that will keep your fish happy and healthy is the first step to success. The shape and size of the goldfish aquarium is important and depends upon the number of fish you are going to keep. These fish need a lot of oxygen and produce a lot of waste.

 

Good filtration, especially biological filtration, is very helpful in maintaining the water quality of the aquarium. Filtration systems remove much of the detritus, excess foods and waste. This in turn helps to keep the tank clean and maintain the general health of the goldfish.

 

  • Tank parameters to consider when choosing a goldfish aquarium:

    • Tank sizeTen gallons is the absolute minimum required to house a Fantail Goldfish. It's best to start with a 20 - 30 gallon tank for your first goldfish and then increase the size of the tank by 10 gallons for each additional goldfish. Providing a large amount of water per fish will help dilute the amount of waste and reduce the number of water changes needed.

    • Tank ShapeAlways provide the maximum amount of surface area. A large surface area of water will help minimize goldfish suffering from an oxygen shortage. Surface area is determined by the shape of the tank. For example an elongated tank offers more surface area (and oxygen) than a tall tank. In an oval or round shaped tank the middle offers more surface area than filling it to the top.

    • Number of fishFor juveniles a general rule of thumb is 1 inch of fish (2.54 cm) per 1 gallon of water. But this rule only applies to young fish and is not adequate as they grow. Larger gold fish consume much more oxygen than young fish so maintaining this formula for growing fish will stunt them, and can contribute to disease and even death.

    • Fish size and growthTo allow for proper growth, either buy fewer fish than the maximum number or be prepared to get a larger tank. Prevent stunted growth and other health problems by not overstocking the aquarium.

Goldfish are a cold water fish and will do best at temperatures between 65 - 72° F (18°- 22° C). The Fantail Goldfish are one of the hardiest varieties of goldfish and can tolerate temperatures a few degrees above freezing, as long as the cooling drops only a few degrees a day. A quick temperature drop can kill them, so if you live in a very cold climate a heater is advisable

 

Provide a gravel substrate to help create a natural and comfortable environment for your fish. You can add some decor, but make sure that all ornamentation is smooth with no protruding points or sharp edges. Smooth rocks or driftwood, should be used sparingly if at all. Aquarium plants would be the best choice of aquarium decor for goldfish, but unfortunately these fish are diggers. Consequently live plants may be uprooted. Artificial plants make a good substitute and silk plants are safer than plastic ones.

 

Most aquariums come with a cover that includes lighting. A cover for the tank is desirable as it reduces evaporation and though they are not prone to jumping, on occasion some gold fish will jump out. Lighting is not essential for goldfish, but does make the aquarium a nice show piece and lighting will help if you have live plants.

 

Goldfish are freshwater fish, but they have some tolerance for slightly brackish water. The salinity level for C. auratusmust be kept low, below 10% with a specific gravity of less than 1.002.

 

  • Minimum Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L) - Ten gallons is the absolute minimum required to house this fish. It has high oxygen requirements, produces a lot of waste. It will have very stunted growth if it is kept in a smaller aquarium.

  • Suitable for Nano Tank: Yes - A Nano tank is fine as long as it is 10 gallons or more.

  • Substrate Type: Any - A medium sized gravel works best.

  • Lighting Needs: Moderate - normal lighting

  • Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C) - This fish will tolerate much colder temperatures, although this seems to be the optimum range for activity and longevity of Goldfish.

  • Range ph: 6.0-8.0

  • Hardness Range: 5 - 19 dGH

  • Brackish: Sometimes - The salinity for C. auratus must be kept below 10%, a specific gravity of less than 1.002.

  • Water Movement: Moderate

  • Water Region: All - These fish will swim in all areas of the aquarium.

Social Behaviors : 

 

Goldfish are very social animals and thrive in a community. Not only are they a great community fish but they are great scavengers as well. The Fantail Goldfish, along with the Ryukins, are some of the only egg-shaped goldfish that can readily compete for food with the elongated goldfish such as the Common or Shubunkin Goldfish, so can be housed with them. It is really not necessary to add other scavengers or other bottom feeders to the aquarium when you have goldfish.

 

Most fancy goldfish will thrive in both freshwater and tropical aquariums as long as there are no aggressive or territorial fish in the tank. Some good tank mates for fancy goldfish are the Chinese Blue Bitterling and the Northern Redbelly Dace.

 

  • Venomous: No

  • Temperament: Peaceful

  • Compatible with:

    • Same species - conspecifics: Yes

    • Peaceful fish (): Safe

    • Semi-Aggressive (): Threat

    • Shrimps, Crabs, Snails: Safe - not aggressive

    • Plants: Threat - Goldfish will eat many kinds of aquatic plants, and their constant search for food can end up uprooting plants that they don't eat.

Sex: Sexual differences  : 

 

Although is it impossible to sex Goldfish when they are young and not in breeding season, the male is usually smaller and more slender that the female. In the breeding season the male has white prickles, called breeding tubercles, on its gill covers and head. Seen from above the female will have a fatter appearance as she is carrying eggs.

 

Breeding / Reproduction:

 

Fantail Goldfish are egg layers that spawn readily in the right conditions. See Breeding Freshwater Fish - Goldfish for more information on breeding Goldfish.

 

  • Ease of Breeding: Moderate

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

 

 

Fish Diseases : 

 

Goldfish are subject to the same diseases as tropical fish. A couple of the more common problems are Ich, Swim Bladder Disease, and external parasites including flukes, lice and anchor worms. For more in-depth information about goldfish diseases and illnesses

 

References

  • Animal-World References: Freshwater Fish and Plants

  • David Alderton, Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish , DK Publishing, Inc., 2005.

  • Marshall E. Ostrow, Goldfish (Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manuals), Barron's Educational Series, Inc. 2003

  • Geoff Rogers, Nick Fletcher, Focus on Freshwater Aquarium Fish, Firefly Books. 2004

  • David Sands, Goldfish (Caring for Your Pet), Interpet Publishing, 1999

7-Lionhead Goldfish:

 

 

Chinese Lionhead Goldfish, Fancy Goldfish

Family: Cyprinidae

 

The Lionhead Goldfish develops a fleshy growth that looks somewhat like a lion's mane... hence the name "Lionhead"!

 

The Lionhead Goldfish is by far the most popular and well known of the dorsal less goldfish.The lack of a stabilizing dorsal fin is a trait that is also seen in the Bubble Eye and the Celestial Eye Goldfish. Unlike the long slender body found on Common Goldfish and the Shubunkins, it is also one of the more rounded or egg-shaped fancy gold fish.

 

This goldfish was bred in China to develop a "hood" that depicts the image of the mythical Chinese lion-dog. The distinctive raspberry or lion's mane appearance of the Chinese Lionhead Goldfish have led to its common name 'Lionhead' Goldfish. The amount of head growth differs for each fish. For some the broad head, except for its eyes, mouth and nostrils, can become completely covered with fleshy growth (sometimes impeding their vision) while others will develop hardly any head growth at all.

 

Lionheads have a double caudal (tail) fin and a double anal fin. This goldfish variety is very similar to the Ranchu Goldfish, a variant that was highly developed Japan. The Lionhead can be distinguished from it by a less curved contour shape to its back. Also, its caudal fin is quite similar to that of the Fantail Goldfish, while the Ranchu has a tail fin that splays out to the sides, often being almost horizontal. Though pretty rare, there is also a long finned Lionhead variety.

 

These goldfish are available in a variety of colors including red, orange, chocolate, blue, and black. They can also be calico, bi-colored in red and white or red and black, or tri-colored in red, white, and black. There is also a red-capped variety with a bright red head and white body.

 

The Lionhead Goldfish can be confused with the Oranda Goldfish when their coloring is very similar. The photo on the right of a Redcap Oranda shows the distinctive differences between the two. The Oranda is quickly identified by its dorsal fin, which Lionhead's do not have. The Lionhead also has higher arching on the back and more intense bubbly growth around the face.

 

The Lionhead Goldfish is considered a rather delicate fish and is not recommended for beginners. Its swimming ability is cumbersome because of its rounded body which is further diminished by the lack of a stabilizing dorsal fin.

 

Many of the elongated goldfish varieties like the Common Goldfish, Comet Goldfish, the Shubunkin, are not really good companions for the Lionhead Goldfish because they are fast swimmers and too competitive during feeding time. Better tank mates would be the similarly handicapped but less hardy Water-Bubble Eye Goldfish, Telescope Goldfish, and Celestial Goldfish. It won't win any races, but if kept with other slow-moving varieties the Lionhead Goldfish should get plenty to eat and do well.

 

-Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

-Size of fish - inches: 5.0 inches (12.70 cm)

-Minimum Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L)

-Temperament: Peaceful

-Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately Difficult

-Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C)

 

Habitat: Distribution / Background:

 

The goldfish of today are descendants of a wild carp fish, known as the Prussian Carp, Silver Prussian carp, or Gibel CarpCarassius gibelio (syn: Carassius auratus gibelio) which was described by Bloch in 1782. For many years it was believed that goldfish had originated from the Crucian Carp or Golden Carp Carassius auratus auratus described by Linnaeus in 1758, but more recent research is pointing toward the former.

 

These wild carp originated in Asia; Central Asia (siberia). They inhabit the slow moving and stagnant waters of rivers, lakes, ponds, and ditches feeding on plants, detritus, small crustaceans, and insects. In the early 1500's these fish were exported first to Japan and then to Europe and were developed into the wonderful colors and forms of gold fish we see today.

 

The Lionhead Goldfish, or Chinese Lionhead Goldfish, is one of the older varieties of fancy goldfish. In China this fish was bred to develop a "hood" that depicts the image of the mythical Chinese lion-dog. Its ancestor and precursor is the Eggfish, known as Maruko in Japan. The Lionhead and all other dorsal less fish resulted from developments of this egg shaped fish. The Eggfish itself is not popular in the United States. Although it can be found in the orient, it is very rare in the US and would be expensive. Today there are more than 125 captive bred fancy varieties.

 

  • Scientific Name: Carassius auratus auratus

  • Social Grouping: Groups

  • IUCN Red List: NE - Not Evaluated or not listed - There are no wild populations of this captive bred variety.

Description:

 

The Lionhead Goldfish is an egg-shaped variety of goldfish. The body is short and stubby and they have a double caudal (tail) fin and a double anal fin. Lionhead Goldfish will generally reach about 5 inches (13 cm), though some hobbyist report their Lionhead's reaching more than a whopping 10" (25 cm). The average goldfish life span is 10 – 15 years, though living 20 years or more is not uncommon in well maintained goldfish aquariums and ponds.

 

Their most distinctive feature is the head, which except for its eyes, mouth and nostrils, can become completely covered with fleshy growth. These fish mostly have short fins, but there is a long-finned variety that is rather rare.

 

Available color varieties include the solid metallic types in red, orange, chocolate, blue, and black; nacreous types can be calico, bi-colored combinations of red and white or red and black, or tri-colored combinations in red, white, and black. There is also a red-capped variety as in the photo above, with a bright red head and white body.

 

  • Size of fish - inches: 5.0 inches (12.70 cm) - Lionhead Goldfish will generally reach about 5 inches (13 cm), but have been reported to reach 10" (25 cm) in an exceedingly well maintained tank or pond.

  • Lifespan: 15 years - The average goldfish lifespan is 10 – 15 years, but they have been known to live 20 years of more when well maintained.

Fish Keeping Difficulty:

 

Lionhead Goldfish are some of the more delicate species of goldfish. Unlike the flat-bodied types of goldfish, they have a lower tolerance for pollution.

 

They will need good care and plenty of space. When it comes to feeding, they will not thrive well with fast competitive tank mates.

 

Many people will keep goldfish in an aquarium with no heater or filtration. But for the best success in keeping goldfish, provide them the same filtration, especially biological filtration, that other aquarium residents enjoy.

 

  • Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately Difficult - The Lionhead Fancy Goldfish is compartively very weak relative to other Fancy Goldfish. The Wen is prone to infection, if the aquarist notices any rawness or irritation it is wise to treat right away.

  • Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Foods and Feeding:

 

Since they are omnivorous, the Lionhead Goldfish will generally eat all kinds of fresh, frozen, and flake foods. To keep a good balance give them a high quality flake food everyday. To care for your Lionhead Goldfish, feed brine shrimp (either live or frozen), blood worms, Daphnia, or tubifex worms as a treat. It is usually better to feed freeze-dried foods as opposed to live foods to avoid parasites and bacterial infections that could be present in live foods. Due to their fleshy head growth they can have poor vision and a harder time seeing their food, so need extra time to feed.

 

  • Diet Type: Omnivore

  • Flake Food: Yes

  • Tablet Pellet: Yes

  • Live foods (fishes, shrimps, worms): Some of Diet

  • Vegetable Food: Some of Diet

  • Meaty Food: Some of Diet

  • Feeding Frequency: Several feedings per day

 

 

Aquarium Care:

 

Regular weekly water changes of 1/4 to 1/3 is strongly recommended to keep these fish healthy. Snails can be added as they reduce the algae in the tank, helping to keep it clean.

  • Water Changes: Weekly

 

Aquarium Setup:

 

Setting up a goldfish aquarium in a manner that will keep your fish happy and healthy is the first step to success. The shape and size of the aquarium is important and depends upon the number of goldfish you are going to keep. These fish need a lot of oxygen and produce a lot of waste.

 

Good filtration, especially biological filtration, is very helpful in maintaining the water quality of the aquarium. Filtration systems remove much of the detritus, excess foods and waste. This in turn helps to keep the tank clean and maintain the general health of the goldfish.

 

  • Tank parameters to consider when choosing a goldfish aquarium:

    • Tank sizeTen gallons is the absolute minimum required to house a Lionhead Goldfish. It's best to start with a 20 - 30 gallon tank for your first goldfish and then increase the size of the tank by 10 gallons for each additional goldfish. Providing a large amount of water per fish will help dilute the amount of waste and reduce the number of water changes needed..

    • Tank ShapeAlways provide the maximum amount of surface area. A large surface area of water will help minimize goldfish suffering from an oxygen shortage. Surface area is determined by the shape of the tank. For example an elongated tank offers more surface area (and oxygen) than a tall tank. In an oval or round shaped tank the middle offers more surface area than filling it to the top.

    • Number of fishFor juveniles a general rule of thumb is 1 inch of fish (2.54 cm) per 1 gallon of water. But this rule only applies to young fish and is not adequate as they grow. Larger gold fish consume much more oxygen than young fish so maintaining this formula for growing fish will stunt them, and can contribute to disease and even death.

    • Fish size and growthTo allow for proper growth, either buy fewer fish than the maximum number or be prepared to get a larger tank. To prevent stunted growth and other health problems, don't overstocking the aquarium.

 

Goldfish are a cold water fish and will do best at temperatures between 65 - 72° F (18°- 22° C). Unlike the flat-bodied types of goldfish however, the Lionhead Goldfish have a lower tolerance for pollution and cannot tolerate temperatures much below 60° F (16° C).

 

Provide a gravel substrate to help create a natural and comfortable environment for your fish. You can add some decor, but make sure that all ornamentation is smooth with no protruding points or sharp edges. Smooth rocks or driftwood should be used sparingly if at all. Aquarium plants would be the best choice of aquarium decor for goldfish, but unfortunately these fish are diggers. Consequently live plants may be uprooted. Artificial plants make a good substitute and silk plants are safer than plastic ones.

 

Most aquariums come with a cover that includes lighting. A cover for the tank is desirable as it reduces evaporation and though they are not prone to jumping, on occasion some gold fish will jump out. Lighting is not essential for goldfish, but does make the aquarium a nice show piece and lighting will help if you have live plants.

 

Goldfish are freshwater fish, but they have some tolerance for slightly brackish water. The salinity level for C. auratusmust be kept low, below 10% with a specific gravity of less than 1.002.

 

  • Minimum Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L) - Ten gallons is the absolute minimum required to house this fish. It has high oxygen requirements, produces a lot of waste. It will have very stunted growth if it is kept in a smaller aquarium.

  • Suitable for Nano Tank: Sometimes

  • Substrate Type: Any - A medium sized gravel works best.

  • Lighting Needs: Moderate - normal lighting

  • Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C) - Goldfish are a cold water fish and will do best at temperatures between 65 - 72° F (18°- 22° C). Unlike the flat-bodied types of goldfish however, the Lionhead cannot tolerate temperatures much below 60° F (16° C).

  • Range ph: 6.0-8.0

  • Hardness Range: 5 - 19 dGH

  • Brackish: Sometimes - Goldfish are freshwater fish, but they have some tolerance for slightly brackish water. Any salinity for must be kept low, below 10%, a specific gravity of less than 1.002.

  • Water Movement: Moderate

  • Water Region: All - These fish will swim in all areas of the aquarium.

Social Behaviors:

 

Goldfish are very social animals and thrive in a community. Not only are they a great community fish but they are great scavengers as well. It is really not necessary to add other scavengers or other bottom feeders to the aquarium when you have goldfish.

 

When choosing tank mates, keep in mind the physical traits of the Lionhead Goldfish. Like the Telescope Goldfish and the Celestial Goldfish, the Lionhead can be visually handicapped. Further its swimming ability is cumbersome because of its rounded body and the lack of a stabilizing dorsal fin, a trait that is also seen in the Water-Bubble Eye Goldfish. While the Lionhead cannot readily compete for food with fast swimming types of goldfish, these similarly handicapped varieties can make good companions.

 

  • Venomous: No

  • Temperament: Peaceful

  • Compatible with:

    • Same species - conspecifics: Yes

    • Peaceful fish (): Safe

    • Semi-Aggressive (): Threat

    • Shrimps, Crabs, Snails: Safe - not aggressive

    • Plants: Threat - Goldfish will eat many kinds of aquatic plants, and their constant search for food can end up uprooting plants that they don't eat.

 

Sex: Sexual differences:

 

Although is it impossible to sex Goldfish when they are young and not in breeding season, the male is usually smaller and more slender that the female. In the breeding season the male has white prickles, called breeding tubercles, on its gill covers and head. Seen from above the female will have a fatter appearance as she is carrying eggs.

 

Breeding / Reproduction:

 

Lionhead Goldfish are egg layers that spawn readily in the right conditions.  

 

  • Ease of Breeding: Moderate

 

Fish Diseases : 

 

Goldfish are subject to the same diseases as tropical fish. A couple of the more common problems are Ich, Swim Bladder Disease, and external parasites including flukes, lice and anchor worms. For more in-depth information about goldfish diseases and illnesses

 

References

  • Animal-World References: Freshwater Fish and Plants

  • David Alderton, Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish , DK Publishing, Inc., 2005.

  • Marshall E. Ostrow, Goldfish (Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manuals), Barron's Educational Series, Inc. 2003

  • Geoff Rogers, Nick Fletcher, Focus on Freshwater Aquarium Fish, Firefly Books. 2004

  • David Sands, Goldfish (Caring for Your Pet), Interpet Publishing, 1999

 8-Oranda Goldfish:

 

Oranda Fancy Goldfish

Family: Cyprinidae

 

The Oranda Goldfish is like a Veiltail Goldfish but with a bit shorter tail, and develops a hood similar to the Lionhead Goldfish!

 

The Oranda Goldfish is one of the most popular goldfish in the world. It is favored for its hood, a fleshy growth on the top of its head called the wen. The wen starts to show at about 3 - 4 months, but only really begins to form at about 1 - 2 years. The hood gets fully developed when the fish gets to be about 2-2 1/2 years old. The Oranda Goldfish in the picture is too young to have a well developed hood.

 

This beautiful gold fish has a large round shape, shimmering scales, and a long flowing split caudal (tail) fin that fans out when it stops swimming. It is not surprising that the Chinese refer to it as the "flower of the water". In Japan it is called 'Oranda Shishigashiri', and there's a calico version they call 'Azuma Nishiki'. In the Orient, though the common name Oranda is applied to these fish, varieties with the fleshy growth covering the entire head are known as Tigerhead or Tiger Goldfish.

 

Rather than having the long slender body of the Common Goldfish or the Shubunkins, The Oranda Goldfish is one of the more rounded or egg-shaped fancy gold fish. All of their fins are paired except the dorsal fin, and the tail fin is usually split.

 

They can have metallic or matte scales and are available in a wide variety of colors including red, black, calico, chocolate and red/white combinations and a more recently developed blue color. A favorite variety is the Redcap Oranda which is totally white except for a cherry red hood, looking just like a cap.

 

The Oranda Goldfish can be confused with the Lionhead Goldfish when their coloring is very similar. The photo on the right of a Lionhead shows the distinctive differences between the two. The Lionhead is quickly identified by the lack of a dorsal fin, which Orandas have. The Lionhead also has higher arching on the back and more intense bubbly growth around the face.

 

Oranda Goldfish are very popular and are found in collectors tanks throughout the world. But although they are widely available, they are considered delicate and not recommended as a beginner fish. Unlike the flat-bodied types of goldfish, they have a lower tolerance for pollution and cannot tolerate extremely cool temperatures. The hood is subject to infection from debris, bacteria, and fungi that settles in the tiny folds.

 

  • Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

  • Size of fish - inches: 7.0 inches (17.78 cm)

  • Minimum Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L)

  • Temperament: Peaceful

  • Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately hardy

  • Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C)

Habitat: Distribution / Background: 

 

The goldfish of today are descendants of a wild carp fish, known as the Prussian Carp, Silver Prussian carp, or Gibel CarpCarassius gibelio (syn: Carassius auratus gibelio) which was described by Bloch in 1782. For many years it was believed that goldfish had originated from the Crucian Carp or Golden Carp Carassius auratus auratus described by Linnaeus in 1758, but more recent research is pointing toward the former.

 

These wild carp originated in Asia; Central Asia (siberia). They inhabit the slow moving and stagnant waters of rivers, lakes, ponds, and ditches feeding on plants, detritus, small crustaceans, and insects. In the early 1500's these fish were exported first to Japan and then to Europe and were developed into the wonderful colors and forms of gold fish we see today. The Oranda Goldfish is one of the older varieties of fancy goldfish, today there are more than 125 captive bred fancy varieties.

 

  • Scientific Name: Carassius auratus auratus

  • Social Grouping: Groups

  • IUCN Red List: NE - Not Evaluated or not listed - There are no wild populations of this captive bred variety.

Description: 

 

The Oranda Goldfish is an egg-shaped variety of goldfish. The body has a large round shape, shimmering scales, and a long flowing split caudal (tail) fin that fans out when it stops swimming. All of their fins are paired except the dorsal fin, and the tail fin is generally split.

 

The Chinese have also developed a telescope eye variety of the Oranda Fancy Goldfish.

 

Orandas can have metallic or matte scales and are available in a wide variety of colors including red, black, calico, chocolate and red/white combinations. These is also a more recently developed blue color.

 

A highly popular and favorite variety is the Redcap Oranda which can be seen in the picture above. It is totally white except for a cherry red hood, looking just like a cap.

 

In the Orient, though the common name Oranda is applied to these fish, a variety with the fleshy growth covering its entire head is known as the Tigerhead or Tiger Goldfish.

The average goldfish life span is 10 – 15 years, though living 20 years or more is not uncommon in well maintained goldfish aquariums and ponds.

 

They will generally reach about 6 - 7 inches (5-18 cm), though they have been known to grow much larger in many aquarists tanks. The largest known Oranda Goldfish is Bruce, bred in Hong Kong at the TungHoi Aquarium, where he is reported to have reached a whopping 15 inches (38 cm) in length.

 

Oranda Goldfish are some of the more delicate species of goldfish and not suggested for the beginners. Unlike the flat-bodied types of goldfish, they have a lower tolerance for pollution. Its hood is subject to infection from debris, bacteria, and fungi that settles in the tiny folds. They will need good care and plenty of space

 

Many people will keep goldfish in an aquarium with no heater or filtration. But for the best success in keeping goldfish, provide them the same filtration, especially biological filtration, that other aquarium residents enjoy. When it comes to feeding, they will not thrive well with fast competitive tank mates.

 

  • Size of fish - inches: 7.0 inches (17.78 cm) - Oranda Goldfish generally reach about 6 - 7 inches (5-18 cm), but have been reported to grow twice that size in exceedingly well maintained tanks or ponds.

  • Lifespan: 15 years - The average goldfish lifespan is 10 – 15 years, but they have been known to live 20 years of more when well maintained.

 

Fish Keeping Difficulty

 

Oranda Goldfish are some of the more delicate species of goldfish and not suggested for the beginners. Unlike the flat-bodied types of goldfish, they have a lower tolerance for pollution. Its hood is subject to infection from debris, bacteria, and fungi that settles in the tiny folds. They will need good care and plenty of space

 

Many people will keep goldfish in an aquarium with no heater or filtration. But for the best success in keeping goldfish, provide them the same filtration, especially biological filtration, that other aquarium residents enjoy. When it comes to feeding, they will not thrive well with fast competitive tank mates.

 

  • Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately hardy - The Wen is prone to infection, if the aquarist notices any rawness or irritation it is wise to treat right away.

  • Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

 

Foods and Feeding :

 

Since they are omnivorous, the Oranda Goldfish will generally eat all kinds of fresh, frozen, and flake foods. To keep a good balance give them a high quality flake food everyday. To care for your Lionhead Goldfish, feed brine shrimp (either live or frozen), blood worms, Daphnia, or tubifex worms as a treat. It is usually better to feed freeze-dried foods as opposed to live foods to avoid parasites and bacterial infections that could be present in live foods. Due to their fleshy head growth they can have poor vision and a harder time seeing their food, so need extra time to feed.

 

  • Diet Type: Omnivore

  • Flake Food: Yes

  • Tablet Pellet: Yes

  • Live foods (fishes, shrimps, worms): Some of Diet

  • Vegetable Food: Some of Diet

  • Meaty Food: Some of Diet

  • Feeding Frequency: Several feedings per day

Aquarium Care:

 

Regular weekly water changes of 1/4 to 1/3 is strongly recommended to keep these fish healthy. Snails can be added as they reduce the algae in the tank, helping to keep it clean.

  • Water Changes: Weekly

 

 

 

 

 

Aquarium Setup  : 

 

Setting up a goldfish aquarium in a manner that will keep your fish happy and healthy is the first step to success. The shape and size of the aquarium is important and depends upon the number of goldfish you are going to keep. These fish need a lot of oxygen and produce a lot of waste.

 

 

Good filtration, especially biological filtration, is very helpful in maintaining the water quality of the aquarium. Filtration systems remove much of the detritus, excess foods and waste. This in turn helps to keep the tank clean and maintain the general health of the goldfish.

 

  • Tank parameters to consider when choosing a goldfish aquarium:

    • Tank sizeTen gallons is the absolute minimum required to house a goldfish. It's best to start with a 20 - 30 gallon tank for your first goldfish and then increase the size of the tank by 10 gallons for each additional goldfish. Providing a large amount of water per fish will help dilute the amount of waste and reduce the number of water changes needed..

    • Tank ShapeAlways provide the maximum amount of surface area. A large surface area of water will help minimize goldfish suffering from an oxygen shortage. Surface area is determined by the shape of the tank. For example an elongated tank offers more surface area (and oxygen) than a tall tank. In an oval or round shaped tank the middle offers more surface area than filling it to the top.

    • Number of fishFor juveniles a general rule of thumb is 1 inch of fish (2.54 cm) per 1 gallon of water. But this rule only applies to young fish and is not adequate as they grow. Larger gold fish consume much more oxygen than young fish so maintaining this formula for growing fish will stunt them, and can contribute to disease and even death.

    • Fish size and growthTo allow for proper growth, either buy fewer fish than the maximum number or be prepared to get a larger tank. To prevent stunted growth and other health problems, don't overstocking the aquarium.

Goldfish are a cold water fish and will do best at temperatures between 65 - 72° F (18°- 22° C). Unlike the flat-bodied types of goldfish however, the Oranda Goldfish have a lower tolerance for pollution and cannot tolerate temperatures much below 60° F (16° C).

 

Provide a gravel substrate to help create a natural and comfortable environment for your fish. You can add some decor, but make sure that all ornamentation is smooth with no protruding points or sharp edges. Smooth rocks or driftwood should be used sparingly if at all. Aquarium plants would be the best choice of aquarium decor for goldfish, but unfortunately these fish are diggers. Consequently live plants may be uprooted. Artificial plants make a good substitute and silk plants are safer than plastic ones.

 

Most aquariums come with a cover that includes lighting. A cover for the tank is desirable as it reduces evaporation and though they are not prone to jumping, on occasion some gold fish will jump out. Lighting is not essential for goldfish, but does make the aquarium a nice show piece and lighting will help if you have live plants.

 

Goldfish are freshwater fish, but they have some tolerance for slightly brackish water. The salinity level for C. auratusmust be kept low, below 10% with a specific gravity of less than 1.002.

 

  • Minimum Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L) - Ten gallons is the absolute minimum required to house this fish. It has high oxygen requirements, produces a lot of waste. It will have very stunted growth if it is kept in a smaller aquarium.

  • Suitable for Nano Tank: Sometimes

  • Substrate Type: Any - A medium sized gravel works best.

  • Lighting Needs: Moderate - normal lighting

  • Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C) - Goldfish are a cold water fish and will do best at temperatures between 65 - 72° F (18°- 22° C). Unlike the flat-bodied types of goldfish however, the Oranda cannot tolerate temperatures much below 60° F (16° C).

  • Range ph: 6.0-8.0

  • Hardness Range: 5 - 19 dGH

  • Brackish: Sometimes - Goldfish are freshwater fish, but they have some tolerance for slightly brackish water. Any salinity for must be kept low, below 10%, a specific gravity of less than 1.002.

  • Water Movement: Moderate

  • Water Region: All - These fish will swim in all areas of the aquarium.

Social Behaviors

 

 

Goldfish are very social animals and thrive in a community. Not only are they a great community fish but they are great scavengers as well. It is really not necessary to add other scavengers or other bottom feeders to the aquarium when you have goldfish.

 

The Oranda Goldfish is not a fast swimmer. They cannot vigorously compete for food with fast swimming types of goldfish like the the Common Goldfish, Comet Goldfish, the Shubunkin, so may not fare well if housed with them, but they will do well housed with other egg-shaped varieties if the environment is well cared for.

 

  • Venomous: No

  • Temperament: Peaceful

  • Compatible with:

    • Same species - conspecifics: Yes

    • Peaceful fish (): Safe

    • Semi-Aggressive (): Threat

    • Shrimps, Crabs, Snails: Safe - not aggressive

    • Plants: Threat - Goldfish will eat many kinds of aquatic plants, and their constant search for food can end up uprooting plants that they don't eat.

 

 

Sex: Sexual differences:

 

Although is it impossible to sex Goldfish when they are young and not in breeding season, the male is usually smaller and more slender that the female. In the breeding season the male has white prickles, called breeding tubercles, on its gill covers and head. Seen from above the female will have a fatter appearance as she is carrying eggs.

 

Breeding / Reproduction:

 

Oranda Goldfish are egg layers that spawn readily in the right conditions. See Breeding Freshwater Fish - Goldfishfor more information on breeding Goldfish.

  • Ease of Breeding: Moderate

Fish Diseases : 

 

Goldfish are subject to the same diseases as tropical fish. A couple of the more common problems are Ich, Swim Bladder Disease, and external parasites including flukes, lice and anchor worms. For more in-depth information about goldfish diseases and illnesses

 

References

  • Animal-World References: Freshwater Fish and Plants

  • David Alderton, Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish , DK Publishing, Inc., 2005.

  • Marshall E. Ostrow, Goldfish (Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manuals), Barron's Educational Series, Inc. 2003

  • Geoff Rogers, Nick Fletcher, Focus on Freshwater Aquarium Fish, Firefly Books. 2004

  • David Sands, Goldfish (Caring for Your Pet), Interpet Publishing, 1999

9-Pearlscale Goldfish:

 

Pearlscale Fancy Goldfish

Family: Cyprinidae

 

The rounded body of the Pearlscale Goldfish appears as if adorned with rows of luminescent pearls!

 

Pearlscale Goldfish are very popular and found in collectors tanks throughout the world. Their hardiness and ability to live in cold temperatures makes them ideal pets. Rather than having the long slender body of the Common Goldfish or the Shubunkins, this is one of the more rounded or egg-shaped fancy gold fish. They have a straight back with a swollen belly, resembling a golf ball.

 

It is usually twin-tailed with a very compact body. It can be easily recognized by its nacreous scales with raised centers and dark perimeters. Arranged in rows, these distinctively raised scales look like pale pearls.This is the only variety of goldfish with these types of scales. They can be found in all kinds of colors including red, blue, black, calico, chocolate and red/white combinations.

 

These are one of the newer varieties of fancy goldfish. The first known mentioning of them is from the early 20th century. They have been largely developed in England and first appeared in 1900. Today there are more than 125 captive bred fancy goldfish varieties.

 

A variation of the common pearlscale is the Crown Pearlscale or Hamanishiki Crown Pearlscale, which develops a hood or head growth similar to that seen on the Oranda Goldfish.

 

Pearlscale Fancy Goldfish are fairly hardy and can be successfully kept by beginners. However they must be handled with care as they can be easily damaged. Their scales can fall off with rough handling or by sharp objects. Like many of the egg-shaped goldfish they are slow swimmers. These fish won't win any races, but if kept with other slow-moving varieties they should get plenty to eat and do well. Many of the elongated goldfish varieties like the the Common Goldfish, Comet Goldfish, the Shubunkin, are not really good companions because they are fast swimmers and too competitive during feeding

 

Good tank mates would be similarly shaped goldfish that are also slower swimmers such as the Fantail Goldfish, Ryukin Goldfish, and the Black Moor Goldfish. These varieties all tolerate temperatures a few degrees above freezing, as long as the cooling drops only a few degrees a day.

 

Their hardiness and ability to live at colder temperatures makes them ideal for outdoor ponds. If you wish to keep it in a pond, make sure the environment is safe. In a warmer, well maintained tank, even the less hardy Water-Bubble Eye Goldfish, Telescope Goldfish, and Celestial Eye Goldfish can be good companions.

 

  • Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner

  • Size of fish - inches: 4.0 inches (10.16 cm)

  • Minimum Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L)

  • Temperament: Peaceful

  • Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately hardy

  • Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C)

Calico Oranda Goldfish

Tigerhead Oranda or Tiger GoldfishPhoto Courtesy Snehashis Sarkar

Crown Pearlscale Goldfish

Habitat: Distribution / Background :

 

The goldfish of today are descendants of a wild carp fish, known as the Prussian Carp, Silver Prussian carp, or Gibel CarpCarassius gibelio (syn: Carassius auratus gibelio) which was described by Bloch in 1782. For many years it was believed that goldfish had originated from the Crucian Carp or Golden Carp Carassius auratus auratus described by Linnaeus in 1758, but more recent research is pointing toward the former.

 

These wild carp originated in Asia; Central Asia (siberia). They inhabit the slow moving and stagnant waters of rivers, lakes, ponds, and ditches feeding on plants, detritus, small crustaceans, and insects. In the early 1500's these fish were exported first to Japan and then to Europe and were developed into the wonderful colors and forms of gold fish we see today.

 

The Pearlscale Fancy Goldfish is one of the newer varieties of fancy goldfish, with the first known mentioning of them from the early 20th century. They first appeared in 1900, and have been largely developed in England. Today there are more than 125 captive bred fancy goldfish varieties.

 

  • Scientific Name: Carassius auratus auratus

  • Social Grouping: Groups

  • IUCN Red List: NE - Not Evaluated or not listed - There are no wild populations of this captive bred variety.

Description : 

 

The Pearlscale Goldfish is an egg-shaped variety of goldfish. The body is short, stubby, and compact . It has a straight back and swollen belly, resembling a golf ball, and is usually twin tailed. It has rows of distinct scales with raised centers and dark perimeters.

 

These goldfish will generally reach about 4 inches (10 cm), though some hobbyist report their Pearlscale's growing much larger. The average goldfish life span is 10 – 15 years, though living 20 years or more is not uncommon in well maintained goldfish aquariums and ponds.

 

They can be found in all kinds of colors including red, blue, black, calico, chocolate, and red/white combinations. A variation of the common pearlscale is the Crown Pearlscale Goldfish or Hamanishiki Crown Pearlscale, which develops a hood or head growth similar to that seen on the Oranda Goldfish.

 

  • Size of fish - inches: 4.0 inches (10.16 cm) - Pearlscale Goldfish will generally reach about 4 inches (10 cm) in length, but have been reported to grow twice that size in exceedingly well maintained tanks or ponds.

  • Lifespan: 15 years - The average goldfish lifespan is 10 – 15 years, but they have been known to live 20 years of more when well maintained.

Fish Keeping Difficulty : 

 

Pearlscale Goldfish are some of the hardier species of goldfish and can be kept by a beginners. They are very undemanding of water quality and temperature. However they can be easily damaged, knocking off their scales with rough handling or by sharp objects in their environment.

 

Be careful even when netting these fish because when they loose a 'pearl' scale it will only grow back as a regular scale. Some hobbyists suggest providing additional calcium in their tank may help prevent the lose of these scales, but that it is not yet documented.

 

Many people will keep goldfish in an aquarium with no heater or filtration. But for the best success in keeping goldfish, provide them the same filtration, especially biological filtration, that other aquarium residents enjoy.

 

  • Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately hardy - The aquarist should use caution when netting this fish as the pearl scales are delicate and do not regrow as pearl scales. Some aquarists suggest that calcium rich water is beneficial to this species.

  • Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner

 

Foods and Feeding :

 

Since they are omnivorous, the Pearlscale Goldfish will generally eat all kinds of fresh, frozen, and flake foods. To care for your Pearlscale Goldfish, keep a good balance by giving them a high quality flake food everyday. Feed brine shrimp (either live or frozen), blood worms, Daphnia, or tubifex worms as a treat. Other vegetables like cucumber and lettuce are acceptable as well. It is usually better to feed soaked freeze-dried foods as opposed to live foods to avoid parasites and bacterial infections that could be present in live foods.

 

Because of the unusual body shape, the pearlscale is more susceptible to swim bladder disease and constipation. It is suggested that any pellets or flake food be soaked thoroughly before feeding to prevent swelling in the stomach. It has also been suggested that deshelled peas in the diet at least once a week will prevent and treat constipation.

 

  • Diet Type: Omnivore

  • Flake Food: Yes - This fish is a slow eater, the aquarist should ensure that it is not outcompeted for food by swifter moving tankmates.

  • Tablet Pellet: Yes

  • Live foods (fishes, shrimps, worms): Some of Diet

  • Vegetable Food: Some of Diet

  • Meaty Food: Some of Diet

 

 

Aquarium Care:

 

Regular weekly water changes of 1/4 to 1/3 is strongly recommended to keep these fish healthy. Snails can be added as they reduce the algae in the tank, helping to keep it clean.

 

  • Water Changes: Weekly

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

 

 

Aquarium Setup : 

 

Setting up a goldfish aquarium in a manner that will keep your fish happy and healthy is the first step to success. The shape and size of the aquarium is important and depends upon the number of goldfish you are going to keep. These fish need a lot of oxygen and produce a lot of waste.

 

Good filtration, especially biological filtration, is very helpful in maintaining the water quality of the aquarium. Filtration systems remove much of the detritus, excess foods and waste. This in turn helps to keep the tank clean and maintain the general health of the goldfish.

 

  • Tank parameters to consider when choosing a goldfish aquarium:

    • Tank sizeTen gallons is the absolute minimum required to house a Pearlscale Goldfish. It's best to start with a 20 - 30 gallon tank for your first goldfish and then increase the size of the tank by 10 gallons for each additional goldfish. Providing a large amount of water per fish will help dilute the amount of waste and reduce the number of water changes needed.

    • Tank ShapeAlways provide the maximum amount of surface area. A large surface area of water will help minimize goldfish suffering from an oxygen shortage. Surface area is determined by the shape of the tank. For example an elongated tank offers more surface area (and oxygen) than a tall tank. In an oval or round shaped tank the middle offers more surface area than filling it to the top.

    • Number of fishFor juveniles a general rule of thumb is 1 inch of fish (2.54 cm) per 1 gallon of water. But this rule only applies to young fish and is not adequate as they grow. Larger gold fish consume much more oxygen than young fish so maintaining this formula for growing fish will stunt them, and can contribute to disease and even death.

    • Fish size and growthTo allow for proper growth, either buy fewer fish than the maximum number or be prepared to get a larger tank. To prevent stunted growth and other health problems, don't overstocking the aquarium.

Goldfish are a cold water fish and will do best at temperatures between 65 - 72° F (18°- 22° C). The Pearlscale Goldfish are one of the most hardy varieties of goldfish and can tolerate temperatures a few degrees above freezing, as long as the cooling drops only a few degrees a day. A quick temperature drop can kill them, so if you live in a very cold climate a heater is advisable. The Pearlscale should not be kept in water colder than 55° F (12.77° C).

 

Provide a gravel substrate to help create a natural and comfortable environment for your fish. You can add some decor, but make sure that all ornamentation is smooth with no protruding points or sharp edges. Smooth rocks or driftwood should be used sparingly if at all. Aquarium plants would be the best choice of aquarium decor for goldfish, but unfortunately these fish are diggers. Consequently live plants may be uprooted. Artificial plants make a good substitute and silk plants are safer than plastic ones.

 

Most aquariums come with a cover that includes lighting. A cover for the tank is desirable as it reduces evaporation and though they are not prone to jumping, on occasion some gold fish will jump out. Lighting is not essential for goldfish, but does make the aquarium a nice show piece and lighting will help if you have live plants.

 

Goldfish are freshwater fish, but they have some tolerance for slightly brackish water. The salinity level for C. auratusmust be kept low, below 10% with a specific gravity of less than 1.002.

 

  • Minimum Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L) - Ten gallons is the absolute minimum required to house this fish. It has high oxygen requirements, produces a lot of waste. It will have very stunted growth if it is kept in a smaller aquarium.

  • Suitable for Nano Tank: Sometimes

  • Substrate Type: Any - A medium sized gravel works best.

  • Lighting Needs: Moderate - normal lighting

  • Temperature: 65.0 to 72.0° F (18.3 to 22.2° C) - Goldfish can tolerate colder temperatures, but the Pearlscale should not be kept in water colder than 55° F (12.77° C).

  • Range ph: 6.0-8.0

  • Hardness Range: 5 - 19 dGH

  • Brackish: Sometimes - Goldfish are freshwater fish, but they have some tolerance for slightly brackish water. Any salinity for must be kept low, below 10%, a specific gravity of less than 1.002.

  • Water Movement: Moderate

  • Water Region: All - These fish will swim in all areas of the aquarium.

 

Social Behaviors :

 

Goldfish are very social animals and thrive in a community. Not only are they a great community fish but they are great scavengers as well. It is really not necessary to add other scavengers or other bottom feeders to the aquarium when you have goldfish.

 

Along with the other egg-shaped goldfish like the Fantail Goldfish, Ryukin Goldfish, and the Black Moor Goldfish, the Pearlscale Goldfish are slow swimmers. They cannot vigorously compete for food with fast swimming types of goldfish like the the Common Goldfish, Comet Goldfish, the Shubunkin, so may not fare well if housed with them, but they will do well housed together.

 

  • Venomous: No

  • Temperament: Peaceful

  • Compatible with:

    • Same species - conspecifics: Yes

    • Peaceful fish (): Safe

    • Semi-Aggressive (): Threat

    • Shrimps, Crabs, Snails: Safe - not aggressive

    • Plants: Threat - Goldfish will eat many kinds of aquatic plants, and their constant search for food can end up uprooting plants that they don't eat.

 

Sex: Sexual differences: 

 

Although is it impossible to sex Goldfish when they are young and not in breeding season, the male is usually smaller and more slender that the female. In the breeding season the male has white prickles, called breeding tubercles, on its gill covers and head. Seen from above the female will have a fatter appearance as she is carrying eggs. See pictures and more information about sexing at Bristol Aquarists.

 

Breeding / Reproduction

Pearlscale Goldfish are egg layers that spawn readily in the right conditions. See Breeding Freshwater Fish - Goldfish for more information on breeding Goldfish.

  • Ease of Breeding: Moderate

Fish Diseases : 

 

Goldfish are subject to the same diseases as tropical fish. A couple of the more common problems are Ich, Swim Bladder Disease, and external parasites including flukes, lice and anchor worms. For more in-depth information about goldfish diseases and illnesses

 

References

  • Animal-World References: Freshwater Fish and Plants

  • David Alderton, Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish , DK Publishing, Inc., 2005.

  • Marshall E. Ostrow, Goldfish (Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manuals), Barron's Educational Series, Inc. 2003

  • Geoff Rogers, Nick Fletcher, Focus on Freshwater Aquarium Fish, Firefly Books. 2004

  • David Sands, Goldfish (Caring for Your Pet), Interpet Publishing, 1999

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