Goldfish | Everything you need to know about the goldfish in the pond!
Goldfish, everyone knows them, you've probably seen them in an aquarium. But did you know that these pond fish can also be placed very well in a pond and that there are many different species of goldfish? Read all about it in this blog.
All about goldfish
- What kind of fish is the goldfish?
- How old can a goldfish live?
- Can goldfish live alone?
- Keeping goldfish in the pond
- Different species of goldfish
- How old does the average goldfish get?
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What kind of fish is a goldfish?
The goldfish originated from the domesticated variety of Carassius auratus auratus, from the lower reaches of the Jangtsekiang River. Prior to 2013, the goldfish was believed to be descended from the smelt, but this turns out to be untrue. In fact, the goldfish is descended from the "carp-like" family. The original color of the goldfish was really golden, over the years this golden color has changed to an orange color.
How old can a goldfish live?
Did you know that a goldfish can live up to 15 years in captivity? Unfortunately, goldfish in the wild often have a shorter lifespan because they prey on predators and disease. But with proper care, a healthy goldfish in captivity can even live to be over 20 years old! It is important to provide them with a suitable habitat and healthy fish food. So with proper care, you can enjoy these beautiful fish even longer.
The best fish food for goldfish
Can goldfish live alone?
Did you know that goldfish are truly social animals? These fish often need the company of other fish to reduce stress and feel at ease. They are used to communicating with other fish, such as while feeding or defending their territory. In a group, goldfish feel safer, which leads to more activity and a healthier lifestyle. So if you want to see your goldfish flourish, make sure they are not alone! Goldfish also find it important to have shelter, you can create this for the fish by planting plenty of aquatic plants in the pond such as a water lily.
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Keeping goldfish in the pond
Many people think that a goldfish belongs only in an aquarium, but this is not the case. A goldfish is a freshwater fish that needs plenty of space so it can swim around freely. Also, healthy water quality is a must for the goldfish and for any other fish. You can measure the quality of the water in the pond by the PH value, GH value and KH value. You can also tell from this whether the water in the pond is "hard. Water hardness and stable water values are important for goldfish, if this is the case then a pond is an ideal habitat for your goldfish. You know the water values in the pond are good when the pond plants are growing well and look healthy, you achieve this by setting up your pond correctly.
Different species of goldfish
Besides the common goldfish, there are many other species of goldfish. I will list a number of different species for you so that you can choose for yourself which one seems most suitable for your pond!
- Shubunkin goldfish: The Shubunkin goldfish is a popular species of goldfish known for its beautiful colors and patterns. This fish has a bluish purple back and tail, with orange, pink or yellow spots on the sides of the body. Shubunkins are active swimmers that like to live in groups and require a large pond to exhibit their natural behavior.
- Comet tail goldfish: The Comet tail goldfish is a smaller species of goldfish with an elongated, slender shape and a long tail. This fish has a bright, metallic sheen and can range in different colors from yellow, orange, red, pink, white or silver. Comet tails are active swimmers and companion animals that like to live in groups and require a large pond or aquarium to exhibit their natural behavior.
- Sarasa goldfish: The Sarasa goldfish is a variety of the Shubunkin goldfish, where the back of the fish is red or orange and the tail and sides of the body are white. This creates a nice contrast and a unique pattern. Sarasa's are active swimmers that like to live in groups and require a large pond to exhibit their natural behavior. Sarasa's are a popular choice for decoration in gardens or parks.
- Veiltail goldfish: The Veiltail goldfish is a very popular species of goldfish known for its long, thin tail feathers. This fish can vary in different colors, such as red, orange, yellow, white or silver. Veil tails are active swimmers and companion animals that like to live in groups and require a large pond or aquarium to exhibit their natural behavior. The veiltail is often sought after for its beauty.
How big does the average goldfish get?
The size of a goldfish varies greatly depending on the species. Some, such as the Comet goldfish, remain small, reaching only 6 centimeters. However, other species, such as the Shubunkin goldfish, can reach 30 centimeters or even larger! Most goldfish in living rooms or garden ponds will measure between 15 and 25 centimeters. But remember: to support your goldfish's growth and prevent it from not being able to grow further due to limitations in its environment, a large aquarium or pond is necessary.
Frequently asked questions about the goldfish
An ordinary goldfish costs about between 1 and 10 euros. How much a goldfish costs depends on the species. When you buy a goldfish, it is important to buy several, as they are group animals.
Goldfish are less intelligent than other animals but they can definitely remember certain things. For example, their brain is set up to adapt to an environment, this is because in the wild they often have to go through this to protect themselves from predatory fish.

Simon van der Velde
Pond specialist and aquatic plant grower since 1986
Simon's vision is to let nature do its work in your pond. No need to buy all kinds of measuring equipment and water improvers. If the fish are swimming nicely and the plants are growing well, then the water in the pond is of good quality. With a good planting plan and the right approach, you can save a lot of money and maintenance, and ensure a clear, biologically balanced pond that becomes more beautiful every year.