HISTORY OF GOLDFISH

The practice of keeping goldfish dates back as far as 970A.D. when
domesticated fish keeping began in ancient China. Farmers would impound
carp as food fish. These carp were silver-grey fish, like the wild carp found
today. A genetic mutation in some of the carp gave them a yellowish gold
color. the farmers would then selectively breed the colored carp, over
time this breeding is what lead to, what we know as Goldfish. Popularity grew
and spread from China. Over centuries, the selective breeding is what has given
rise to many different types of goldfish. Types of goldfish include the Oranda,
Ryukin, Skubunkin, Comet, Lion head and so many more. Goldfish are seen
as good luck and many oriental cultures and some breeds even have religious
roots. The Celestial Eye goldfish were bred because monks believed their eyes
looked toward the heavens.

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR GOLDFISH

Goldfish are peaceful fish that do well with other breeds of goldfish or other
cold water fish. There is really no issues with aggression, aside from the
occasional nipper. Because of the differences of temperature, DO NOT
mix Goldfish with tropical fish. Goldfish prefer 60-70 degrees. Goldfish are idea
for outdoor ponds, Even in the winter when the water freezes, Goldfish can
live. As the water temperatures drop, so does their metabolism.
Most goldfish can reach a length up to a foot or more. With the proper diet
they can live up to 20 years. They are easy to feed and will accept different
types of foods. Flakes or pellets are best. Avoid meaty foods. Goldfish have
a high vegetable requirement. Algae sheets, cucumbers or peas can be fed
to Goldfish. They are very messy fish, with hugh appetites, which brings me to
the reason why most people fail in keeping this pet. Goldfish require
LARGE amounts of water. The water condition is very important. It is NOT
recommended to keep goldfish in unfiltered bowls, although it is possible
if you put in the time and do frequent water changes, (twice a week). The rule
is for every inch of Goldfish, you will need two gallons of water. This is why I
cringe when carnivals and fairs have games where you can win a goldfish.
Unsuspecting parents take the fish home without care instructions and
wonder why the fish didn’t make it. To care for a Goldfish is easy. The most
important thing to remember is they need a lot of room and frequent water
changes. If you change the water and don’t cramp them, they can live a long
time and be a beautiful addition to your home.