- Scientific Name: Carassius auratus
- Family: Cyprinidae (Carp Family)
- Origin: Originally bred in China over 1,000 years ago, later developed into ornamental varieties in Japan and Europe.
- Popularity: One of the most popular and enduring aquarium fish worldwide, known for its vibrant colors, graceful movement, and adaptability to different environments.
🎨 Appearance
- Color: Comes in a variety of shades including orange, red, white, yellow, black, and calico.
- Structure:
- Streamlined or rounded body depending on the variety.
- Single or double tail fin (fan-like, veil, or comet types).
- Large expressive eyes and smooth, shiny scales.
- Size: Typically 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) in aquariums; can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) in ponds.
- Lifespan: 10–15 years on average; some varieties can live over 20 years with proper care.
🏡 Tank Requirements
- Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for one goldfish; add 10 gallons per additional fish.
- Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 65–75°F (18–24°C)
- pH: 6.5–7.5
- Hardness: 5–19 dGH
- Lighting: Moderate, mimicking natural daylight.
- Substrate: Smooth gravel or sand to prevent injury.
- Habitat Setup:
- Provide ample open space for swimming.
- Add plants or ornaments for decoration, avoiding sharp edges.
- Maintain strong filtration and perform regular water changes (20–30% weekly) for pristine conditions.
