Goldfish is one of the most common fishes that are kept in an aquarium. Its popularity is perhaps because they tend to be very affordable as well as easy to car for. They can even stay alive for a certain period in ponds layered with ice, up to the point where sufficient supply of oxygen available. Many different kinds of goldfishes can be found in the market. As a result of selective reproduction, a wide variety of goldfishes are available which vary in pattern, size and shape, including fin structure. Not all of them can live in the wild and are required to be kept in fish tanks due to their captivating colors. Due to mixed breeding, the body of some fishes have changed that make natural breeding is nearly impossible.
Many people think that goldfishes should have to be kept in goldfish bowl. But contrary to the popular believe, such container is not suitable for goldfish since the surface area can only supply a small amount of oxygen. To put it simply, the wider the surface area, the more oxygen can be supplied. This condition makes the fish difficult to breath. Keep in mind that one medium sized goldfish need at least ten gallons of water. These are the reason why goldfish bowls have been prohibited in many countries.
Another important thing to consider when keeping goldfish is they should not be touched because doing so could result the slimy coating on the body coming out, which in turn exposing the skin to bacterial infection. This can be a serious problem to the physical condition of the fish. Goldfishes, if kept in a dark environment will loose their color. This is caused by the pigments in their cells. Consequently, an appropriate lighting system must be installed in a closed room.
Also be aware not feed them excessively. The more food given, the more waste will be produced. Moreover, overfeeding could lead to the bursting of their intestines. Twice a day with an adequate quantity should be enough. In addition, the food should be rich in carbohydrate and low protein. Other than the commercial food flakes and pellets, they can also be given bloodworms and green leafy vegetables.
The goldfishes, maintained in an aquarium as well as in a pond, should not be mixed with tropical fishes or any other kind of fish. Considering that many types of goldfishes are hybrids, they will be more prone to attack. Some fishes not only attack the goldfishes, but also suck on their wounds.
Goldfish can potentially grow up to twenty-three inches and can weigh up to ten pounds. Although in aquarium they only live for around eight years, in fact they can live for twenty years in their natural environment. To keep them in a pond, which is normally intended for breeding, make sure the depth of the water is more than thirty inches to prevent the water from freezing in winter. In addition, the surface area should be one square foot for each inch of fish’s length. To filter the water and increase the oxygen level, plants can be added. However, a filtering equipment should also be used.
