Carassius auratus

The Goldfish, a member of the carp family, is one of the most popular and recognizable pets in the world. Originally from Asia, these fish have been selectively bred for centuries, resulting in a wide array of colors and shapes, from the streamlined Comet to the round-bodied Oranda. Contrary to common belief, goldfish are not suitable for small bowls. They are active swimmers that grow quite large, often reaching 15 to 30 cm, and require a minimum tank size of 80 liters to thrive. With a potential lifespan of 15 years or more, they are a long-term commitment. Goldfish are social creatures and appreciate the company of their own kind. As omnivores, their diet should be varied, including high-quality pellets or flakes, supplemented with vegetables and occasional live or frozen foods. They are known for being messy, producing a lot of waste, which means a powerful filtration system and regular water changes are essential for their health. These fish are also quite interactive, known to dig in the substrate and nibble on aquatic plants, adding a lively presence to any suitable aquarium. They prefer cooler, slow-moving freshwater.