Fancy Gold Fish

Mar 9, 2026 | Cold Water

Shinygoldfish

Fancy Goldfish Overview

Scientific Name: Carassius auratus
Origin: East Asia (domesticated from wild carp)
Adult Size: Up to 15–20 cm depending on variety
Temperament: Peaceful and social
Difficulty Level: Beginner to intermediate
Tank Size: 75L+ for the first fish
Temperature: 20–24°C

Fancy goldfish are one of the most recognisable cold water aquarium fish, known for their round bodies, flowing fins, and a wide range of colours and varieties. Popular types include Fantails, Orandas, Ranchu, Pearlscales, and Black Moors.

These fish are peaceful and generally easy to care for, making them a popular choice for aquariums. However, they do require adequate space, good filtration, and clean water conditions to stay healthy. With proper care, fancy goldfish can live 10–15 years or more, making them a long-term addition to an aquarium.

 

Aquarium Requirements for Fancy Goldfish

Fancy goldfish require a spacious aquarium with good filtration and stable water conditions. Because they produce a significant amount of waste, maintaining good water quality is essential.

Typical aquarium conditions include:

  • Tank Size: 75 litres or larger recommended for the first fish

  • Temperature: 20–24°C

  • pH Range: Around 6.5 – 7.5

  • Filtration: Strong filtration with good oxygenation

  • Aquarium Type: Open aquariums with smooth décor and swimming space

Goldfish should not be kept in small bowls. 

Feeding Fancy Goldfish

Fancy goldfish benefit from a varied diet to maintain good health and strong colours.

A good feeding routine may include:

  • High quality goldfish pellets or flakes

  • Frozen foods such as bloodworms or brine shrimp

  • Specialised goldfish foods

  • Occasional vegetables such as peas or leafy greens

Feeding small amounts once or twice per day is usually sufficient. Overfeeding should be avoided, as uneaten food can quickly reduce water quality and lead to health problems.

Behaviour and Tank Mates

Fancy goldfish are peaceful fish that do well in calm aquariums with other slow-moving species.

They are social fish and are often happiest when kept with other fancy goldfish. Keeping them in small groups can encourage natural behaviour and reduce stress.

Suitable tank mates may include: Other fancy goldfish varieties, Weather loaches, White Cloud Mountain Minnows

Fast or aggressive fish should be avoided, as they may outcompete goldfish for food or nip at their long fins.

Setting Up a Fancy Goldfish Aquarium

A fancy goldfish aquarium should provide plenty of swimming space and stable water conditions.

Popular aquarium setups include:

  • Open aquariums with smooth gravel or sand substrate

  • Natural aquascapes with hardy plants and driftwood

  • Minimalist tanks that highlight the colours and movement of the fish

Because goldfish produce more waste than many tropical fish, strong filtration and regular water changes are important for maintaining a healthy aquarium.

Fancy Goldfish at Smith’s Aquatics

At Smith’s Aquatics in Stockton-on-Tees, we regularly stock a variety of fancy goldfish including popular varieties.

Our team can help you with:

  • Choosing healthy goldfish

  • Planning a suitable aquarium setup

  • Selecting compatible tank mates

  • Advice on feeding and long-term care

If you are interested in keeping fancy goldfish, visit our store to speak with our aquatics team and learn more about these beautiful cold water fish.