Buying a large feeder goldfish for your fish tank can be a great idea. However, there are a few things to consider. The first thing is that you should know the best way to look after them.
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Common species
Having goldfish as pets is a long tradition in China. In the early 1500s, goldfish were kept in ponds outside the home, and were seen as a status symbol for rich people.
The first goldfish may have been a descendant of the wild-caught Carassius auratus, but today’s varieties are genetically distinct. Although the common species are hardy, they can contract diseases. Some of the common diseases can quickly be fatal in small aquariums. Some diseases can be avoided by maintaining good water quality and feeding the fish properly.
One of the most interesting features of goldfish is their unique sense of hearing. They can hear from tiny bones located near their skull. They also have great senses of smell and hearing, but they do not have taste buds.
Comet goldfish
Among the oldest types of goldfish, the comet goldfish is a favorite for the hobbyist. In fact, they are the most commonly available type. They are related to the Prussian carp and are considered part of the family Cyprinidae.
They have a thin anal fin and a long, flowing tail. They can be found in a wide range of colors, but their most common color is a lemon-yellow. They have two long pectoral fins, and their tails can also be colored the same way as their bodies.
They are peaceful fish that get along with most other creatures. They are also easy to breed. They spawn in the spring, when the water temperature increases. The eggs hatch within a week.
Fancy goldfish
Generally speaking, goldfish are not toxic. However, they do excrete a lot of ammonia, which is a nuisance to all aquatic creatures. There are a few simple things you can do to help minimize your fish’s ammonia output.
The most obvious is to ensure that your tank has proper filtration. This includes installing a filtration system that can handle large fish. You can also opt to use a sinking pelleted food. This will help minimize your fish’s “swim bladder.”
Choosing the right tank is a top priority. If you’re unsure of what size aquarium you need, you can check with your local pet store. You might be able to fit a goldfish in a smaller aquarium, but you’ll need a larger one if you plan on keeping multiple fish.
Polycystic kidney disease
PKD, also known as polycystic kidney disease, is a common fish disease that causes fluid filled cysts to form in the kidneys. They enlarge and destroy normal tissue and can lead to kidney failure.
This condition affects many types of fish, including goldfish. It can cause kidney failure and heart damage. The disease is thought to be caused by a parasite, but many other factors can contribute.
Fish with PKD have an abnormal belly shape and may not be able to swim. An ultrasound scan can confirm PKD.
PKD can be treated with hyperosmotic therapy. An aquatic veterinarian can help you treat a fish with PKD.
Neurofibromas
Whether you’re a first-time goldfish owner or a long-time enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of neurofibromas in large feeder goldfish. These are growths that form on the skin and can look unsightly. But they are non-cancerous. If you’re concerned about them, you can get a professional diagnosis and treatment.
NF1 is a gene that is responsible for regulating production of the neurofibromin protein. The protein is involved in the regulation of cell growth. When this gene is damaged, tumors can develop.
NF1 is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. Approximately 30 to 50 percent of new cases of NF1 occur through mutations in the gene. Fortunately, most of these mutations are harmless, and they’re not passed down from parents.
Parasites
Keeping large feeder goldfish in good health involves providing them with the right diet and maintaining proper water quality. If you notice anything unusual about your fish, contact your veterinarian. They can help you with treating your fish, and can give you the information you need to prevent future issues.
Fungus is one of the most common diseases of goldfish. These infections often happen when the fish are under stress, or when the water quality is poor. This is because weakened immune systems lead to fungal growth.
Infected fish may develop irregular lumps. In severe cases, these lumps can extend into the muscle tissue below the skin. Other signs include congested gills and gasping at the surface of the water. Symptoms of an untreated fungus infection can also spread to the internal organs, resulting in death.
