All fish / Cyprinidae

Fancy goldfish

Carassius auratus

Also known as goldfish, oranda, ryukin, ranchu, lionhead, fantail, comet, 金鱼, 狮头, 兰寿, 琉金, 珍珠鳞

Centuries-old domestic forms with round bodies, twin tails and, in some breeds, a head growth (wen).

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Peaceful

Adult size

18 cm

Temperature

18 to 24 °C

pH

7 to 8

Smallest tank

120 litres

Keep as

Groups; other goldfish only

Diet

Omnivore: sinking pellets, gel food, blanched greens

Swims

Middle of the tank

Lifespan

10 to 15 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

China (domesticated)

Breeding

Egg scatterer in spring on plants or spawning mops; separate the eggs from the adults.

Good to know

Cool-water fish: do not mix with tropical species. Heavy waste producers, so filter well. Single-tailed comets suit ponds.