Choosing the right tank

Once we understand the truth about goldfish, we are realize that we need to provide the proper sized tank for these fish. A 20 to 30 gallon tank is a good choice to begin with. If you want more than one fish, you will need at least 7 to 10 gallons of water per adult fish.

Many people are seemed shocked at the thought of a 55 gallon tank for 6 or 7 goldfish, but that is the minimum that they need. These fish get big and they produce a large amount of waste, so they need a large quantity of water. Also remember that these fish can live twenty years or longer, and will soon become a cherished pet if treated properly.

Providing correct filtration

It is more important to have heavy-duty filtration with goldfish than other other pet fish. Goldfish produce very large amounts of waste. A good rule of thumb is to have a filter rated for twice the tank size. Either a full-sized canister or good quality hang-on filter makes a great goldfish filter.

Water changes

Even when goldfish are housed in a properly sized aquarium with good filtration, water changes are still needed. In a properly sized tank, a minimum of a 25% water change is required weekly. Water changes remove waste, ammonia, nitrates, and phosphates, as well as provide oxygen and nutrient-enriched water. Think of it as opening up a window for for fresh air.

Setting up the tank

Goldfish tanks should be set up with a layer of medium-sized substrate on the bottom. Plants (real or artificial), rocks and other decor are needed to provide hiding and resting places. A tight fitting hood with fluorescent lighting will keep your fish in the tank and provide lighting for viewing. A heater is should be set on a lower setting to help prevent temperature fluctuations.

Tank mates for goldfish

Goldfish are usually housed only with other goldfish. Some other aquarium pets such as Dojo Loaches, Rosy Red Minnows and Apple Snails can successfully be kept with them.

Feeding goldfish

Goldfish are omnivorous, which means they consume both animal and vegetable matter. One very important fact about goldfish is that they are continual feeders. Goldfish spend their days looking for food and should be fed small frequent meals. If a goldfish eats too much dry food at one time, it can develop gas or constipation problems that can be very severe. Soaking the dry food before feeding can help prevent some of these problems. Adding frozen pea's, cauliflower, broccoli, carrots, and spinach, is beneficial to goldfish and will help meet their dietary needs. Bloodworms, frozen shrimp and brine shrimp can be added to help supplement their protein needs as well.

Keeping your goldfish healthy

Goldfish are quite hardy and if they are cared for properly, are much less likely to develop health problems than most other species. Goldfish will respond to the same treatments for ich, parasites, and bacterial infections as tropical freshwater fish and should be treated accordingly.