Goldfish Too Hot In Tropical Aquariums

[TylerFerretLord]

People say that goldfish should not be kept in tropical conditions because they are coldwater fish. Then why does the species index(orandas) and this topic list some goldfish's teperature range as going into tropical? Especially the shubunkin.

I know it's not a good idea to keep them in tropical conditions, but this perplexes me.

 

[n3ont3tra]

Some species of fancy goldfish are subtropical. It's warmer than coldwater, but cooler than tropical.

 

[TylerFerretLord]

Some species of fancy goldfish are subtropical. It's warmer than coldwater, but cooler than tropical.

Ah, hadn't thought of that, thanks.

 

[JamieBailie]

Myself and family have kept goldfish in tropical tanks for years and years and years.

 

[nukeonekitty]

I kepts my gold fish in cold water... this was years ago... I didn't know much about fish.

 

[nurglespuss]

Gold fish have a massive temperature range, from cold (british/chinese winter) - tropical. Although there is some suggestion that this does affect life span.

 

[ArauraDiscus]

AHhh because goldfish are not coldwater fish. They are temperate water fish. Yes they can survive 32 degree water, but that doesn't mean they like it. They prefer the mid 70's. A true coldwater fish is a sterlet or sturgeon.

 

[Tommo]

Goldfish can live in tropical temperatures, however it is often not advised due to the increase in their rate of metabolism, and thus increase in waste produced as well as an increase in their oxygen requirements (this combined with warmer water containing less oxygen can lead to problems).

 

[TylerFerretLord]

Goldfish can live in tropical temperatures, however it is often not advised due to the increase in their rate of metabolism, and thus increase in waste produced as well as an increase in their oxygen requirements (this combined with warmer water containing less oxygen can lead to problems).

COuldn't you just increase surface agitation?

Or, in a double whammy, get a bio-wheel filter. They're supposed to be better at dealing with waste and oxygenation.

 

[Aphotic Phoenix]

Well there are other issues involved as well...

For one, the dietary needs of goldfish are somewhat different than those of many tropical fish.
Secondly, the volume of water needed to support the waste production of goldfish is much higher than that of most tropical fish due to their high ammonia output.