Red and White Fantail Goldfish

The Fantail Goldfish is a popular variety of goldfish appreciated for its elegant caudal fin and rounded appearance. Here is a comprehensive 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 changes)
• 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

• Omnivore : accepts pellets, flakes, vegetables (cucumber, zucchini, shelled peas) and occasional proteins (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, a good filter is essential.
• Smooth substrate : avoid sharp gravel that could injure their mouths.
• 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.