The Correct Setup Of A Goldfish Tank Options

[HappyBuddha]

I've been asked to write a FAQ on how to set up a goldfish tank for newbies who want to get it right, right from the begining.

I don't know it all... so here's my draft and I ask for your comments. Eventually we'll collectively build the FAQ when I combined all feedbacks.

[HappyBuddha]

Since it's for newbies, we'll restrict the setup to a clear water bio-filtered tank.

Tank Size & Stock Load

Most goldfish needs at least 50 litres of water per fish, assuming it's a 3-4 inches ranchu. You'll use the AquaCal to work out the volume of your tank. A typical 2x1x1.5 feet tank is 80 litres which means you can keep just one 3-4 inches ranchu. A 3x1.5x1.5 feet tank is 190 litres, so that's good for four 3-4 inches ranchus.

Filtration

Goldfish don't like current. So your filtration system must not generate unnecessary current. The most ideal filtration for goldfish is therefore sponge filter. Install one per fish.

Decorating your tank

Don't be a sissy. Keep the tank bare for easy mainatenence instead of wanting the oh so passe gravel bed. If you want a mini aqua eco system with plants, gravel, rocks, and a ferry's wheel that spins in techno colour, please keep a community tropical fish tank instead. Real goldfish keeper focuses on their goldfish, and not day dreaming about how cute the tank looks.

Sickness prevention

Goldfish is hardy. So long as you take care of the water, it takes care of itself. Most sickness can be attributed to bad water. Now, a tank of crystal clear water does not imply it's good water. Can you see bacteria/parasites and nitrate with your naked eyes?

Water change

One of the most commonly asked question is how often to change the water. No one can give you a concrete answer except yourself since we don't know your exact setup, your feeding routine etc. To find out when to change water, get a nitrate test kit. Change water on the day nitrate measures above 40 ppm. To stretch the interval, increase your tank size, or cut your stock load. There's no other way out. As a general rule, a stock load of 100 litres per fish with 3 feedings per day requires a complete water change once a week.

Feeding

The best food for goldfish, all things considered, is Hikari Bio-pure frozen bloodworms. Alternatively, feed Hikari Lionhead pellets.

Feed as much as your fish can finish in 5 minutes, taking a break of an hour and repeat 3 times per day.

If you follow the above, the hobby will be enjoyable where your fish don't fall sick and develops well.


Cheers