Goldfish
Carassius auratus
The goldfish is a hardy, sociable cold-water cyprinid, one of the oldest domesticated fish. Contrary to popular belief, it reaches a large size and lives a very long time when properly housed. It is a group fish, greedy and curious.
Parameters
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Min volume
- 100 L
- Temperature
- 18–22 °C
- pH
- 6.5–8
- Hardness (GH)
- 5–25 °GH
- Adult size
- 25 cm
- Lifespan
- 15 years
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Temperament
- Paisible, sociable
- Difficulty
- Intermédiaire
Environment
It needs a large volume of cold water: allow 50 to 100 litres per fish, that is at least 100 litres for a pair, and no heating. The ideal temperature is between 18 and 22 °C, pH 6.5 to 8. Powerful filtration is essential as it produces a lot of waste; it uproots plants, so prefer hardy or potted species.
Feeding
An omnivore, it accepts goldfish-specific granules, blanched vegetables (spinach, courgette, peas) and frozen prey. Avoid overfeeding, which is common in this greedy species. Sinking foods limit air intake by round-bodied varieties.
Tips & tankmates
The bowl must be absolutely avoided: too small and unfiltered, it condemns the animal to a short and painful life. Do not pair it with tropical fish, as its cold-water needs are incompatible. Cold-water companions such as other goldfish or hornwort suit it better.
Ask AquaBot
A question about Goldfish? The assistant answers from this care sheet.
I'm AquaBot, an AI: I can make mistakes. Double-check important information.
Information provided for guidance only; it may vary between individuals and conditions. If in doubt about an animal's health, consult a vet.