Pearl Scale
Common name(s): Goldfish
Scientific name(s): Carassius auratus
Family: Cyprinidae
Diet: Varied, but with a high percentage of plant matter
Lifespan: 10 - 15 years
Temperament: Generally peaceful, but may eat or harass smaller fish. Very social with other goldfish.
Size: 6"-10" Max
Tank size: 25-30 gallons for average goldfish. 100+ gallons or pond for largest ones.
Temperature: Prefers colder water around 60-65F, but can survive up to 90F and down to 33F for awhile. Needs 75F for spawning.
pH: Adaptable (6-8.5)
Hardness: Adaptable
Water region: All, especially the bottom
Activity time: Diurnal
Variations: Fancy Goldfish, Common Goldfish, Comet Goldfish
Sexing: Males develop tubercles and are slimmer and chase females. Tubercles are only present in mature goldfish during spawning season and males may chase each other in the absence of females. Females have protruding vents and are generally larger.
Breeding: Raise temp to 75F and condition with high protein food. Remove after spawing, as they eat the eggs.