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Goldfish
The common Goldfish has an elongated, stocky body. The basic body
color is green-gray to orange with a variable iridescence in reflected
light. From this base, breeders have developed the numerous forms
available today. They can grow to sizes of 18" (45 cm) in nature,
although most domesticated breeds are considerably smaller. They are
originally from China, but are now distributed abroad from Asia. They
inhabit the bottom and middle areas of the tank. A 10 gallon (38 L) tank
is sufficient for young Goldfish. Large Goldfish require a 35 gallon
(132 L) tank. The tank should include tough cold water plants. The
Goldfish is a messy feeder. Make frequent water changes and provide a
good filtration. The water parameters should be pH 6-8 (7.0), 4-25 dH
(10), with low temperatures of 46-68°F (8-20°C). Goldfish do not
require a heater.
A peaceful species that is suited to a cold water community the Goldfish
will eat soft and fine leafed plants. Do not keep the Goldfish with
tropical fish. Tropical fish require water temperatures much to cold for
the goldfish. Recommended tank buddies include Weather Loach
(Misgurnus species), White Cloud, and other cold water species.
They live on a diet of Flake food especially formulated for goldfish;
pellet; tablet; vegetables; plant matter; live; insects, crustaceans, insect larvae.
Males are slimmer and the rear of the anal fin is concave. When breeding
these fish, a large tank with a neutral pH and a water temperature from
68-72°F (20-22°C) should be used. The tank should be clean. As many
as 1000 eggs are released. The parents should be removed and the eggs
hatch in five days. The young can be raised on small live and dry foods.
The young take nearly a year to develop their coloration. I also know
that they can and will lay eggs in a pond type setting. These fish are easy
to breed.
The Goldfish has been subjected to selective breeding for hundreds of
years and the result is countless body and color forms. Among the most
popular are the Comet, Moor, Shubunkin, Veiltail, Lion-head, Oranda,
Telescope, Pearl-scale, Celestial, and Fantail. Goldfish are commonly
used as feeder fish though they often harbor parasites.