8 things to know before getting pet Goldfish for home aquarium

May 4, 2025 etimes.in

Goldfish as pets

When it comes to keeping an aquarium at home, Goldfish are one of the most common pet fish to have. So, here we list 10 important things to know before getting a Goldfish as a pet for your home aquarium: Canva

Goldfish should not be kept in a bowl

Contrary to common belief, Goldish shouldn't be kept in a bowl. Though they are small when bought, they can grow up to 12 inches! And so, a single goldfish needs at least a 30-litre tank, not a tiny bowl. Canva

They have a long lifespan

Goldfish aren’t short-term pets. With proper care and nutritious diet, they can live 10–15 and even 20 years. And so, one should be prepared for a long-term commitment. Canva

Goldfish are messy

Goldfish produce a lot of waste, which can dirty water fast. And so, their tank should have a good filter and it should also be cleaned regularly. Canva

They aren’t good starter fish for small tanks

Contrary to popular belief, goldfish are not ideal for beginners with small tanks and instead, they should be kept in well-maintained aquariums. Canva

They need companionship— But not all fish get along well

Goldfish are social and often do well in groups, but only with other goldfish. In a community tank, they should be kept with other peaceful fishes of similar built. Canva

They prefer cold water

Goldfish thrive in cooler water temperatures (which is ideally between 18–24°C). Canva

They need nutritious diet

Goldfish eat more than just flakes. They need a varied diet— including pellets, veggies, and occasional treats like peas— to stay healthy and avoid digestive issues. Canva

They have big personalities

Though they are small fish, Goldfish have personalities of their own. They’re curious, playful, and often recognise their owners. With time and interaction, they can be surprisingly engaging pets. Canva

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