Calico Fantail Goldfish

The Fantail Goldfish is a popular variety of goldfish known for its elegant caudal fin and rounded appearance. Here's a complete guide to its needs and behavior:

General Characteristics

• Scientific Name : Carassius auratus
• Adult Size : 15 to 20 cm
• Lifespan : 10 to 15 years (or more with good care)
• Origin : Bred in captivity, derived from the common goldfish

Water Parameters

• Temperature : 18 to 24 °C (tolerates lower temperatures, but avoid sudden variations)
• pH : 6.5 to 7.5
• Hardness : 5 to 15 dGH

Behavior and Cohabitation

• A peaceful and social fish, ideal for living in groups with other goldfish.
• Can be kept with other goldfish varieties of similar shapes (avoid fast goldfish like Comets).
• Poor swimmer : due to its round body and voluminous tail, it is slower than other goldfish.

Diet

• Omnivorous : accepts pellets, flakes, vegetables (cucumber, zucchini, skinless peas) and occasional protein (bloodworms, daphnia).
• Avoid overfeeding to prevent swim bladder problems.

Aquarium Needs

• Minimum Volume : 80 liters for one individual, +40L per additional fish.
• Powerful Filtration : produces a lot of waste, good filtration is essential.
• Smooth Substrate : avoid sharp gravel that could injure their mouth.
• Suitable Plants : prefer robust plants like anubias, vallisneria or echinodorus, as they tend to nibble on vegetation.

The fantail goldfish is an excellent choice for aquarists looking for a graceful and easy-to-observe fish, provided they have a suitable and well-maintained aquarium.