Fancy Goldfish for sale in the Netherlands

Fancy goldfish: behaviour and suitability

Fancy goldfish forage together but swim less efficiently than common goldfish. Do not combine them with fast single-tailed fish that take all food or with fin-nippers. Always assess the actual animal and, when a trade label covers several species, verify the scientific name before acquisition. Age, sex, health and previous housing can noticeably influence behaviour.

Care and housing

Use an aquarium at least 1 metre long with filtration, gentle flow, rounded substrate and stable water at 12–24 °C, preferably 18–22 °C. Feed sinking varied food to limit air gulping and constipation. A bowl is unsuitable. Set up the complete enclosure before the animal arrives and record relevant values and daily behaviour. A sudden change in appetite, activity, breathing, posture or droppings calls for a check of the environment and, where needed, knowledgeable help.

Health and responsible acquisition

Choose active fish with clean skin that swim straight and are not thin. Protruding eyes, a missing dorsal fin and extreme body shape can impair sight, balance and health. Also inspect fins and buoyancy. Ask the seller about age, origin, current care and known health problems, and ensure any documents belong to the animal offered. Never choose on colour, size or price alone, and identify a knowledgeable veterinarian or other species expert before urgent problems arise.