Medium Comet Goldfish (2.5"-3.5")

Comet Goldfish (Carassius auratus var. Comet)

The Comet goldfish is a popular variety of goldfish, recognizable by its slender body and long, tapering caudal fin, resembling a moving comet. It is prized for its liveliness and robustness, making it an excellent choice for aquariums and outdoor ponds.

General Characteristics

• Scientific Name: Carassius auratus var. Comet
• Origin: Bred in the United States in the 19th century
• Adult Size: 20 to 30 cm in aquarium, up to 40 cm in pond
• Lifespan: 10 to 20 years (or more in optimal conditions)
• Colors: Red, orange, white, yellow, or bicolored

Maintenance Conditions

• Minimum Volume: 150 liters per fish in aquarium, ideally in a pond
• Temperature: 10 to 24°C (tolerates lower temperatures in outdoor ponds)
• pH: 6.5 to 8.0
• GH (Water Hardness): 5 to 20°dGH
• Filtration: Strong, with good oxygenation
• Aquarium Type: Large aquarium with open swimming space or outdoor pond

Behavior and Compatibility

The Comet is a very active and fast fish that spends a lot of time swimming. It is sociable and can be kept in groups with other common or Shubunkin goldfish, but it is not recommended to pair it with slower goldfish varieties, such as veil-tailed types, as they may be outcompeted for food.

It is also curious and likes to dig in the substrate for food, which can sometimes disturb aquatic plants that are not well-rooted.

Diet

The Comet is an omnivore and should receive a balanced diet:

• Main Foods: Pellets or flakes specifically for goldfish
• Fresh Foods: Vegetables (spinach, zucchini, peeled peas), fruits in small quantities
• Proteins: Bloodworms, daphnia (occasionally)
• Feeding Frequency: 2 to 3 times a day in small quantities to avoid water pollution

Particularities and Tips

• They produce a lot of waste, requiring powerful filtration and regular water changes (30% per week).
• They tolerate winter well in outdoor ponds, as long as the water doesn't completely freeze.
• They tend to grow quickly and require sufficient space to thrive.

The Comet goldfish is a fascinating variety, both robust and elegant, suitable for beginners and experienced aquarists looking to maintain a dynamic cold-water aquarium.