Housing & Environment
- Goldfish need spacious aquariums, not bowls. A single fancy goldfish requires at least 40L, and add 20–30L for each extra fish.
- Provide good filtration – goldfish are messy eaters and produce a lot of waste.
- Keep the water between 18–22°C. Avoid sudden changes in temperature.
- Use gravel, rocks, and decorations that are smooth (no sharp edges). Live or artificial plants can provide shelter and enrichment.
Enrichment
- Goldfish are active and enjoy exploring. Provide:
- Plants (live or artificial).
- Safe ornaments and caves.
- Space to swim freely.
- Avoid overcrowding; this causes stress and poor water quality.
Cleaning
- Carry out regular water changes (20–30% weekly).
- Use a gravel vacuum to remove waste and debris.
- Treat tap water with a water conditioner before adding it to the tank.
- Clean filter media by rinsing in tank water (not tap water) to keep beneficial bacteria alive.
Diet & Feeding
- Feed a balanced goldfish diet:
- Goldfish flakes or pellets (quality brands formulated for goldfish).
- Supplement with fresh veg like blanched peas (skin removed), spinach, lettuce, or zucchini.
- Occasional treats such as bloodworms or daphnia.
- Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily. Only feed what they can eat within 2 minutes.
- Avoid overfeeding – leftover food pollutes the water.
Health & Wellbeing
- Common signs of health problems: clamped fins, floating issues, white spots, loss of appetite, or frayed fins.
- Maintain good water quality (test for ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates regularly).
- Quarantine new fish before introducing them to your main tank.
- Fancy goldfish (e.g., Orandas, Moors) are more delicate and need extra care compared to common goldfish.
Important Notes
- Goldfish can live 10–15 years or longer with the right care.
- They should not be kept in bowls – bowls do not provide enough oxygen, space, or filtration.
- Always wash your hands before and after handling tank equipment.
Support
For more information, you can contact us at Bird Barn Pet Store.
Our staff can advise on tanks, food, and water care products for your goldfish.
Phone:
09 838 8746 – Extension 1 (Birds & Reptiles)
Hours:
9am–5pm, 7 days (closed Christmas Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, ANZAC Day until 1pm)