Goldfish Care

It is said that goldfish are among the first breed of domesticated freshwater fish. All species of goldfish can be found throughout Asia and in parts of eastern Europe. Goldfish prefer cool streams, lakes and ponds. They have been kept as pets for over 1000 years, perhaps more. According to a study, the world's oldest goldfish died at the age of 43 in 1999 in North Yorkshire, UK. An amazing thing about goldfish is that they do not have any stomachs, nor can they close their eyes while sleeping. These fish can detect ultra-violet and infra-red light. These swimmers can cope with warm as well as freezing temperatures. When the mercury drops, their bodies go into a kind of hibernation mode, and when it's not so cold anymore, they go back to normal. These were some of the interesting facts about goldfish. Now let's get to know about the different methods involved in goldfish care.

Tips for Goldfish Care

Fish Tank
Clean and fresh water is the first and foremost necessity for goldfish care. The ideal temperature to be maintained for a goldfish is 50º to 68º F. If the temperature of the water exceeds 73º F, the fish might suffer from nerve damage, heart damage and immune disorders. This would make the fish more vulnerable to contracting other diseases. According to fish experts, a 10 gallon tank is the most suitable for a single goldfish. This is because your goldfish requires maximum space to swim around. This helps to keep the fish in good shape. Care of goldfish includes changing of water on a daily basis. This should be done if you are keeping the fish in a simple water bowl. In case of an aquarium, 10-15% water changes are required weekly. This is to ensure that your fish gets clean water and waste is removed effectively. One of the most important tips in goldfish care involves keeping toxins from accumulating in the water. This can be done by fitting a filter into the aquarium. The filter must not produce too much current in the water. The filter must be chosen with care so that its working does not interfere with the swimming of the goldfish.

A tank with a hood is preferred by most fish owners. This kind of tank prevents the fish from jumping out of the water and keeps any foreign particles or objects out of the tank. Choose small metamorphic rocks or smooth gravel for the fish tank. Rough edge rocks can injure your goldfish while it is searching for food. Goldfish and as a matter of fact any fish enjoys places to hide. Many decorative pieces are available for this purpose. Go for such items that are specifically designed for aquariums. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight. This would prevent algae growth in the tank.

Food
Coming to the feeding part of goldfish care, it is wise to remember that the fish should be fed only once a day. Feeding is not same for all kinds of fish. Likewise, goldfish also have different nutritional needs. So chose a food that is specifically prepared for goldfish. Goldfish require a carbohydrate-rich diet and they have large appetites. A wide variety of formulated foods are available in the market. Besides, you can also provide your fish with bloodworms, earthworm flakes, brine shrimps and even leafy vegetables. After feeding your goldfish, do not forget to clean the water of the excess food. This excess food may decompose in the water and pollute the surroundings. While shifting your goldfish to a different tank, use your hands instead of a net. This protects the delicate coat of the goldfish. This coat is necessary for the fish to prevent bacterial infection in the water.

Goldfish are one of the most beautiful and graceful aquatic creatures. They are small and fragile, and they require utmost care and attention. Responsible owners know the value of providing a healthy environment for such magnificent creatures. Clean water, enough food and proper shelter are the minimal requirement for goldfish care. Keep your goldfish happy by taking proper care of it and you will be delighted every time you see it!