How to Have Active Goldfish

Goldfish are less stressed and more likely to be active when they have a suitable habitat. Although they are a hardy freshwater fish, poor conditions, too little space and a bare environment are not going to show your goldfish at their best. For lively, healthy fish, provide a spacious and well-furnished tank. Active fish darting around a tank full of plants and hiding places create a beautiful aquarium environment.

Things You'll Need

  • 30-gallon or larger tank with light and filter
  • Gravel, rocks and aquatic plants
  • Live food
  • Buckets
  • Gravel cleaner with tube
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Acquire a suitable tank. A single goldfish needs a minimum of 20 gallons, however goldfish are more active in groups and each additional fish needs an extra 10 gallons. A 50-gallon tank is sufficient for a small group.

    • 2

      Position the tank in a warm room. Goldfish do not normally need a heater, but they become lethargic in very cold water.

    • 3

      Set up the tank with gravel, a filter, hiding places and aquatic plants. Choose tough varieties, such as Java fern, because goldfish sometimes eat the plants. Let the tank cycle for at least a week before buying goldfish or transferring your fish from their old tank.

    • 4

      Provide live food, such as bloodworms, on top of the basic goldfish diet. Chasing and catching live food encourages the fish to be active and exhibit natural behavior.