
Gravel, aquatic plants, and a few decorations are okay, but try not to overcrowd the tank. Although it does not sprint around the tank as much as the Comet, the Common can grow up to 18 inches long, and it’s more practical to start with a large aquarium, even when the fish is still young and tiny.Īquarists like to add decorations to enhance the appearance of their aquariums, but Common goldfish need to swim in a tank without too many obstacles. Like the Comet, the Common goldfish should be kept in a large tank between 75 and 100 gallons. However, the ideal temperature range is 65°–75☏, and the most suitable aquarium pH is 7.0–8.4. Abrupt temperature changes can harm the fish but keeping them in a large aquarium will make it easier to maintain a constant temperature.Ĭommon goldfish can survive in freezing temperatures if they can get oxygen from a hole in the ice, and they can tolerate water temperatures of up to 90° in backyard ponds. Although goldfish species are famous for living in deplorable conditions and surviving hot or frigid water, Comets and other goldfish will live much longer when not stressed by poor living conditions. Since tropical fish require higher temperatures, they are not suitable companions for Comets. The ideal temperature setting is 68° F, and the maximum temperature should not rise above 72☏. Image Credit: agus fitriyanto suratno, Shutterstock Temperature ToleranceĬompared to other goldfish varieties, the Comet thrives in colder water. Like most fish, Comets should not be fed bread or crackers that can expand in their stomach. Leafy greens and aquatic plants can serve as healthy snacks for the Comet, and they can even munch on brine shrimp as an occasional treat. Before using flakes, you can soak them in water, so they’ll sink to the bottom of the tank. They will eat flakes from the top of the water, but air bubbles can disrupt their digestion.
#COMET GOLDFISH SKIN#
If you use zucchini or another vegetable with thick skin and starchy flesh, remove the skin and steam the meat until it’s tender. Vegetables must be thawed out and diced up into tiny pieces to be easier to consume and digest. Bacteria levels can rise, and oxygen levels can drop when the aquarium is not adequately maintained.Ĭomets are omnivorous fish that can be fed flakes, pellets, gel food, and frozen or fresh vegetables. They produce a sizable amount of waste and need an aquarium with a reliable filter that cycles the water several times a day. Regular tank cleaning is essential for maintaining the health of all marine life, but it’s particularly critical with Comet goldfish. They may only survive a few years in harsh conditions but can live over 20 years with proper care. Comets are inexpensive, and some people do not value them as much as pricier species. Starting with a larger tank seems inconvenient, but it’s less expensive than replacing a smaller one when the fish increases in size. When the fish is young, you do not need a large tank, but the Comet can grow up to 12 inches. Why do you need such a large tank for a simple goldfish? The minimum tank size for Comets is 50 gallons, but advanced aquarists recommend using tanks as large as 75 to 100 gallons. Although you often see them in tiny round bowls, the fish need a large tank or pond to accommodate their energy needs.

Like the Common goldfish, the Comet is often placed in less than adequate living conditions. Visual Differences Image Credit: (L) Grigorii Pisotsckii, Shutterstock | (R) JuanCarlosPalauDiaz, Shutterstock We’ll discuss what makes the two species spectacular and which fish is suitable for your home. When viewing the two species from the top of the tank, you’ll notice that the Common has a more rounded body than the Comet. They’re similar in appearance, but the Comet is more streamlined than the Common and has longer, flowing fins. The Common goldfish and Comet goldfish are two species you’ve probably seen most often in pet stores. Regardless of their unrefined reputation, goldfish are fascinating creatures that deserve the same treatment as other “fancy” fish. They’re given away as prizes at carnivals, contained in large stock tanks at pet stores, and resigned to live their lives in cramped fish bowls.

Beginner aquarists often overlook the fish because they’re not as elegant or exciting as other species. Goldfish are descendants of the crucian carp, and there are over 200 varieties of the colorful fish.
