The Basic Care Of Goldfish

For a Printer Friendly version of this page please Click Here

Where should I place my tank/bowl?

Do not place the bowl/tank in windows, direct sunlight, radiators or other heat sources. You will find if your tank is getting too much light algae will form and the tank will turn green rather quickly and not look very nice at all, therefore requiring you to clean it more often. Also place it away from draughts.

Setting Up

Once you get home make sure you wash the gravel well, until the water runs clear then place in the bottom of your bowl. Wash and arrange your ornaments and make sure you push the plants down into the gravel as this will enhance your tank. You will probably find it easier to fill your bowl with a jug then add some de-chlorinator. (The amount will be determined upon the quantity of water your tank holds.) If in doubt, please phone us for assistance. You will need to wait about 15-20 minutes before you can go any further.

The temperature of the water must be as near as possible to the water that your fish are already in.(If the water is too cold this could shock and kill your fish). If your tank if big enough it may be possible to float the bag in the for a while. This will help the water in the bag to be brought to a similar temperature. Add some water from the bowl into the bag this will help your fish the with change over to the “new” water.

Now you should be able to gently pour both water and fish into the bowl. (keep this water as this is “good” water for your fish).

Feeding

Feed sparingly; just a few flakes a day will be sufficient. Do not over feed. Whatever your fish is not eating will fall to the bottom of the tank and sour the water. If this is happening you will notice the water looking very cloudy. This will also make your fish ill.

Fresh plants are very important in your aquarium. These will enhance your tank and also your fish may nibble the fresh plants as part of their diet. These should be replaced when necessary. It is also a good idea to feed your fish live daphnia or bloodworm once a week as these will also keep your fish healthy.

If you are going on holiday, it is now possible to get a block of food that may be left in your tank to feed your fish whilst you are away for up to 14 days. These are a great idea and stop the need for transporting your fish or relying on someone else to feed them for you.

Cleaning

Once a week replace 20% of the water and top up with water that has been de-chlorinated. About every 3 weeks it will be necessary to clean the gravel and ornaments etc. To do this you must keep as much of the water as possible. Put this, along with your fish, into a bucket/container whilst this is done. Wipe the tank with a soft cloth so as not to scratch the plastic/glass and rinse the gravel and ornaments well. Do not use detergents or soap! Replace the gravel and decor and gently pour the water back into the bowl/tank along with your fish and top up if necessary with de-chlorinated water. Always use a net to move your fish and never with your hands.

We hope these tips will be all you will require to keep your fish healthy and happy. If however, you do have any problems or questions, please do not hesitate to telephone us on one of the numbers listed above.