Have you ever visited the fish section of your local pet store and seen large tanks filled with feeder goldfish that have been mass-bred under poor conditions and come into the store with reduced immunity? If this scenario sounds familiar to you, take note: mass breeding creates fish with compromised immunity levels which often arrive at pet stores with poor health status.
Cared for properly, these fish can live for years in warm waters with optimal temperatures and with food that provides energy. They require plenty of space, warm temperatures and good food sources.
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Size
Large feeder goldfish are used as pet fish feeders. They can grow to weigh as much as 6 ounces (170 grams), providing food to other types of aquatic pets. Their size stands in stark contrast with most goldfish sold at pet stores that have their growth potential stunted through mass breeding in cramped conditions and with limited space available to grow in.
A large feeder goldfish’s tank of choice also has an effect on their growth. The gravel should be medium-sized to ensure free swimming of their new companion.
An aquarium equipped with the proper conditions will enable a large goldfish to live up to 15 years. A 75 gallon tank should be utilized and maintained accordingly by performing regular water tests and partial water changes.
Habitat
People who have ventured through the fish department of a pet store will likely have witnessed large tanks full of feeder goldfish bred under poor conditions and sold as feeder fish, often carrying diseases, parasites, and illnesses that make them easy prey for predatory fish and reptiles.
Large feeder goldfish can live for many years when provided with the appropriate environment and care, including at least 20 gallon tank for each individual fish with an adjustable filtration system.
Avoid keeping multiple goldfish together in an aquarium to reduce stress levels; otherwise they may become aggressive, chasing and nibbling at smaller tank mates or even eating them. A stressed goldfish may also develop polycystic kidney disease, neurofibromas or warts and cotton-like growths along its body and fins – these infections may need treating with either methylene blue or antibiotics for effective results.
Care
Provide them with plenty of room and an adequate tank, and these fish should be easy to care for. Because they’re highly active creatures that move quickly around their habitat, giving them ample room to flourish is key for their wellbeing. Furthermore, they tend to get along well with other types of fish such as koi.
Feeder goldfish are often raised in overcrowded aquariums or ponds, placing undue strain on their immune systems and increasing the chances of bacteria, virus and parasite infection. Therefore, quarantine must be implemented when raising feeder goldfish.
Just like any fish, catfish need a clean environment and frequent water changes to remain healthy and thrive. Additionally, having an aquarium or pond equipped with a pump that circulates the water will greatly benefit their wellbeing; make sure the pump can push enough water through at 10x its size plus extra to ensure enough dissolved oxygen levels in their tanks when temperatures heat up! This is particularly crucial during warm periods.
Feeding
Fancy goldfish need a diet containing 40% or higher protein for healthy development and muscle growth. High quality pellet or gel foods with this percentage should be fed.
These foods are specially-crafted to contain all the necessary vitamins and nutrients that fancy goldfish require for long, healthy lives. Most are produced in the US under stringent manufacturing standards.
If you want to enrich your feeder’s diet, it may be beneficial to introduce small amounts of live or frozen food – like earthworms, bloodworms or brine shrimp – at regular intervals as treats. But be sure to dole these out sparingly – they should only be used occasionally!
Feed your goldfish two to three times each day with floating pellets; this will prevent him from inhaling air bubbles that can lead to swim bladder issues and constipation. When feeding him flakes, make sure they have been presoaked beforehand to maximize digestion and health.
