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Goldfish bowls are evil

The idea that goldfish can live happily in a fish bowl is a huge misconception.  The analogy I like to use is that keeping a goldfish in a bowl is like keeping a great dane in a closet.  It just isn’t good for them.

Goldfish are active and need room to swim around.  They are also messy and need good water filtration.  The rule of thumb with goldfish is a minimum of 10 gallons per fish (so if you want 3 goldfish, you need at least a 30 gallon tank).

You will also need very good filtration, since they generate a lot of waste.  I recommend getting an over-sized filter for your tank (if you have a 20 gallon tank, buy a filter that is designed for a 30 gallon tank).  I would not recommend the use of an under-gravel filter for use with goldfish.  Instead, get a hang-on-back power filter or a canister filter.  If you have a very large aquarium, you might need more than one filter.  Also plan on doing a 30-50% water change at least once a week while the aquarium is new, and at least every two weeks once it is established.  Remember to use water conditioner to remove chlorine from the water when doing water changes.

Many commercial goldfish foods are full of fillers and don’t provide the best nutrition.  I recommend feeding your goldfish a high quality food like Omega One.

For more in depth information on goldfish care, I recommend visiting Koko’s Goldfish.

If you follow these simple guidelines, your goldfish will live a long happy and healthy life!

-Daniel

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