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Goldfish, the easy fish to keep
Goldfish are the most commonly kept pet in the world. They are
inexpensive, easy to care for and hardy. There are many varieties
and colors available, from the common goldfish to it's fancy-finned
cousins. With proper care they can live many years, making relaxing
and decorative additions to the home.
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Goldfish
Water quality is vital to the health of your goldfish. Most tap
water is suitable, but check with the store to be sure about your
local water. Let the water sit overnight, so the chlorine evaporates
and it reaches room temperature. Once your tank is set up, remove
about 1/4 of the water weekly and replace with clean water.
Housing
Don't be tempted to economize by keeping your fish in a goldfish
bowl or small container. They are not suitable for a goldfish and
your pet's health will decline, resulting in an untimely death.
Goldfish get their oxygen from the surface of the water and the key
to success is to choose a tank with as great a surface area as
possible, at least 30 sq. inches for every inch of goldfish. The
surface area is calculated by multiplying the length of the tank by
its width. A filter will help keep the water clean and an airstone
will provide extra oxygen for your fish. Add aquarium gravel on the
floor and some accessories like rocks and plastic plants to make
your fish feel at home.
Diet
It is best to feed a packaged fish food formulated especially for
goldfish. A good quality goldfish food provides a complete diet with
the correct amounts of protein, vitamins and carbohydrates essential
to your goldfish's health. Goldfish food also keeps your pet's
bright colors at their best. Feed your fish small amounts, several
times a day. Try to feed only as much as the fish will eat
immediately as uneaten food will decompose and pollute the water.
Cleaning
Place your fish tank out of direct sunlight to reduce algae growth.
You can scrape any algae off the glass when replacing the water. Use
a siphon tube to 'vacuum' the gravel to keep the tank free of
debris, which is not only unsightly but also harmful for your fish.
Fertility
Adult goldfish can be sexed during the breeding season.
Health
Signs of illness include: constant gasping for air at the surface;
rapid gill movements; difficulty swimming; lack of appetite; gray or
white cottony looking spots or red patches. Dirty water is the
primary cause of illness in goldfish.
Warnings
Never use any kind of detergent or soap to clean your pet's tank or
accessories.
Additional Reading
Goldfish: A Complete Introduction, by Robert Mertlich. TFH
Publications
The Goldfish Sanctuary
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