Details of all species referred to in these Fish Care Sheets can be found in the FBAS Booklet No 6 - National Show Fish Sizes. Click HERE for information.

                                  Singletail Goldfish   01/02/2004

Species: Carassius auratus

Family: Cyprinidae

Geographic Origin: Asia. Originally Central China.
                             Now selectively bred worldwide to produce many varieties.

Common Names: Common Goldfish, Comets, Bristol & London Shubunkins

Compatibility: These fish will grow to 350mm but rarely so, as most are kept
                      in aquariums or garden ponds. They are quite compatible with
                      any other fish of a similar size.
                      Often they are the ones at a disadvantage.

Minimum Aquarium Size: A 600mm x 380mm x 380mm (24” x 15” x 15”)
                                     aquarium should be considered as the minimum.
                                     For large fish over 80mm, then a tank of at least
                                     1500mm x 450mm x 450mm (60” x 18” x 18")
                                     will be necessary.

Temperature: 0^o/28^oC 32^o/82^oF. In general, our ambient temperatures are
                     consideredto be satisfactory.
                      In ponds, oxygen deficiency at higher summer temperatures
                      will cause problems.

Habitat: All commercial singletail goldfish are suitable for stocking garden
              ponds. Many are also kept quite satisfactorily in aquariums.
              To over-winter, the pond must have an area 900mm deep and be
              cleared of mulm and rotting leaves in the late Autumn.

Water Parameters: These fish are not fussy when it comes to water as long as
                             it is low in nitrate and devoid of chlorine; one should avoid
                             changing more than a third of their water at any one time
                             unless absolutely necessary.

Health: Not particularly prone to health problems. Accidental damage due to
           knocking into rockwork, even vigorous spawning activity, may cause
           fungus problems.
           Always treat in a separate container away from other fish.

Diet: Omnivorous. Will basically consume anything. Many commercial foods
         available. It is important to vary the diet and feed a live food at least
         twice a week if possible.

Plants: Will enjoy a well planted tank.

Breeding Notes : Will spawn spontaneously in an outside pond when water
                         temperatures rise in the Spring.
                         Inter-variety breeding prevalent unless steps are taken to
                         separate varieties and control spawning as required.

Availability: Commercial bred fish widely available.
                    Line-bred specimens only available from specialist breeder.
                    Before you buy check, that the fish appears healthy and alert;
                    avoid listless fish with folded fins.

Show Class: FBAS Show Class U

© FBAS 2003.RDE                               Fish Care Sheet 26 1/1

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