Description

Scientific Name

• Carassius auratus

Origin:

• From Japan widely bred in China and Asia.
• Grows to: 12cm+
• Temperature: 15 – 20C
• pH:7.0 – 7.5
• General Hardness: 150 ppm.
• Temperament:Peaceful to Semi-Aggressive

Feeding:

• Omnivoresbased food
• Pellets/flakes
• Live Food
• Frozen Food
• Veggies and Fruit

Compatibility

• Keep with similar sized goldfish

Key Characteristics of Comet Goldfish:

• Body Shape: Comets have a streamlined, elongated body compared to some other fancy goldfish varieties (like Orandas or Fantails). This body shape makes them excellent swimmers.
• Tail Fin: This is the most distinguishing feature of a comet goldfish. They possess a long, deeply forked caudal (tail) fin that is usually at least as long as the body, and often longer. This flowing tail gives them an elegant appearance as they swim.
• Coloration: Comets come in a wide range of colors, including:
  • Red: Often a bright, solid red.
  • White: Pure white.
  • Orange: Various shades of orange.
  • Yellow: Sometimes a bright yellow.
  • Calico: A mix of red, black, orange, and white scales.
  • Sarasa: Red and white patterns.
  • Metallic: Solid colors with a metallic sheen.
• Temperament: Comets are active and hardy goldfish. They are generally peaceful and can be kept with other single-tailed goldfish varieties like Shubunkins and common goldfish.
• Size: They can grow relatively large, reaching 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) in body length, excluding the tail, in an aquarium. In a pond, they can grow even larger, up to 30 cm (12 inches) or more.
• Lifespan: With proper care, comet goldfish can live for a significant amount of time, often 10-15 years, and sometimes even longer.

Care Requirements for Comet Goldfish:

• Tank Size: Due to their active nature and potential size, comets require a larger tank compared to many other aquarium fish. A minimum of 75 liters (20 gallons) is recommended for a single juvenile, with significantly more space needed as they grow. For multiple comets, a tank of 150 liters (40 gallons) or more is advisable. Ponds are an excellent environment for adult comets.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: They are tolerant of a wide range, from cool to warm (18-24C or 65-75F), but avoid extreme fluctuations.
  • pH: Ideally between 6.5 and 7.5.
  • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm.
  • Nitrate: Keep below 20 ppm with regular water changes.
• Filtration: Goldfish produce a lot of waste, so a powerful and efficient filtration system is essential to maintain water quality. Over-filtration is often recommended.
• Substrate: Smooth gravel or sand is suitable. Avoid small gravel that they could accidentally ingest.
• Decorations: Provide open swimming spaces and some smooth decorations. Avoid sharp objects that could damage their fins.
• Diet: Comets are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods. A high-quality goldfish flake or pellet food should be the staple of their diet. Supplement with fresh or frozen vegetables (like peas, spinach, and zucchini) and occasional treats like bloodworms or brine shrimp. Avoid overfeeding.
• Water Changes: Regular water changes (25-50% weekly) are crucial to remove waste and maintain stable water parameters.