Monday, January 17, 2011

Essential Goldfish Shopping List

If you are thinking of owning a fancy goldfish of your own, below is a general list you will need 

This checklist is for ONE adult FANCY goldfish.  Comets, Commons, (Feeder Fish) should have a much bigger setup, preferably a pond.
  1. 20+ gallon long tank  Stocking levels for goldfish is 20 gallons for the first fish, 10 gallons for each additional fish.  Decorations, gravel, etc. are optional.
  2. A strong filter  Get a filter with 10x the GPH (gallons per hour) of your tank capacity.  (A 30 gallon will need 300gph, a 50 gallon will need 500gph, etc.)  Yes, goldfish really are that messy.
  3. Siphon hose or Water changing system (like this)  You'll have to change 50% of the water every week.
  4. Bucket 
  5. Dechlorinator (like Prime)  Fish can't live in chlorinated water from our tap.  
  6. Drop Test Kit (like API)  Testing your water gives you a clear picture of your goldfish's living conditions, and will help immensely in figuring out why your fish is acting sick.  Drop tests are expensive upfront, but last a long time and save you money in the long run.  They're also more accurate than test strips.
  7. Pure Salt  Aquarium Salt, pickling salt, sea salt.  As long as there are no other ingredients than SALT listed.  Salt is used to kill parasites (such as ich) or help wounds heal naturally.  It's always good to have some on hand.
[ Important ]
For an easier time, cycle your tank before buying your goldfish.  Here's how you do it.

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