Common Goldfish care
Carassius auratus · Freshwater · Beginner level care
A hardy but large and messy pond type fish that is not a tiny bowl pet.
Feeding
Twice a day. Only what they finish in about 2 minutes, since goldfish always beg for more. Goldfish pellets, blanched vegetables, occasional protein.
Good tank mates
Fish that pass every check with Common Goldfish in a 150 gallon tank: same water, overlapping temperature, nobody gets eaten and no bullies.
Do not mix with
- Cardinal Tetra: Cardinal Tetra and Common Goldfish need different water temperatures.
- Glowlight Tetra: Glowlight Tetra and Common Goldfish need different water temperatures.
- Rummynose Tetra: Rummynose Tetra and Common Goldfish need different water temperatures.
- Diamond Tetra: Diamond Tetra and Common Goldfish need different water temperatures.
- X-Ray Tetra: X-Ray Tetra and Common Goldfish need different water temperatures.
- Emperor Tetra: Emperor Tetra and Common Goldfish need different water temperatures.
- Silver Dollar: Silver Dollar and Common Goldfish need different water temperatures.
- Golden Pencilfish: Golden Pencilfish and Common Goldfish need different water temperatures.
Questions
What size tank does a Common Goldfish need?
At least 75 gallons. Adults grow to about 12 inches, so plan for the adult size, not the size at the store.
What temperature does a Common Goldfish like?
60 to 74 degrees Fahrenheit, with a pH of about 6.5 to 8. A steady temperature matters more than hitting one exact number.
How many Common Goldfish should I keep together?
One is fine, and they can also live in small groups if the tank is big enough.
What do Common Goldfish eat?
Goldfish pellets, blanched vegetables, occasional protein. Feed twice a day: only what they finish in about 2 minutes, since goldfish always beg for more.
Sources
Checked against these sources on 2026-11-10. When sources disagree we use the safer number.