Pros:
* Social creatures: Goldfish are social creatures and enjoy the company of their own kind.
* Larger space: Ponds offer a much larger space than tanks, allowing for more swimming room and less overcrowding.
* Natural environment: Ponds provide a more natural environment for goldfish, with plants, rocks, and varying water temperatures.
Cons:
* Compatibility: Make sure to choose goldfish breeds that are compatible with fantails. Fantails have long, flowing fins that can be easily damaged by more aggressive breeds like comets or shubunkins.
* Overstocking: It's important to ensure the pond is large enough to accommodate all the goldfish without overstocking.
* Winter care: Ponds need to be properly winterized to protect goldfish from freezing temperatures.
Tips for keeping fantails in a pond with other goldfish:
* Choose compatible breeds: Stick with other fancy goldfish breeds like orandas, ryukins, or other fantails.
* Adequate space: Provide at least 100 gallons of pond space per goldfish.
* Proper filtration: Ensure the pond has a good filtration system to keep the water clean.
* Regular maintenance: Clean the pond regularly to remove debris and maintain water quality.
* Winter preparation: If you live in a region with cold winters, prepare the pond for winter by adding a de-icer or moving the goldfish indoors.
By following these tips, you can create a safe and enjoyable environment for your fantail goldfish to live in a pond with their companions.