Breeding of Goldfish

Goldfish breeding originated in China approximately 1,000 years ago. Members of the Carassius Auratus family of fish species, goldfish are the result of a natural mutation of carp fish. Goldfish were introduced into the United States in 1872. Today, goldfish owners breed goldfish to expand their own aquarium or pond population, to sell, or to use as feeders.

  1. Environment

    • Allow adequate space for the goldfish, which require a minimum 15 gallons of water for each fish. Appropriate water temperature induces the breeding process. Goldfish breed when water temperatures are in the range of 50 to 78.8 degrees Fahrenheit. Your goal is the optimal temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit. For outdoor breeding waters, wait for the spring season. The water temperature may also be increased artificially. An additional 20 gallon tank is needed for incubation.

    Fertile Mates

    • In spring, select goldfish for the breeding process. Choose specimens ranging in age from two to six years old. To increase the probability of fertilization, provide two male goldfish for every female. To identify a male goldfish, look for breeding tubercles on the gills. These will look like white pimples. Female goldfish are plumper, with a protruding stomach. Within a few days, the goldfish will begin to mate. Adult goldfish do not harm each other during the breeding process.

    Procreation

    • The male goldfish begins a spawning ritual when he is ready to mate. For many hours, the male chases the female goldfish while pushing against her stomach. The female releases her eggs in groups, eventually totaling over 500 eggs. The most fertile eggs are contained in the first group. As the female releases her eggs, the male goldfish immediately sprays the eggs with seminal fluid. Move the adult goldfish to a temporary tank, otherwise, they will eat the fertilized eggs.

    Incubation

    • Remove the goldfish eggs from the breeding environment. Rinse the eggs in water that is the same temperature as the breeding water. Place the eggs in that second 20 gallon tank, filled with six inches of water. A higher water level exerts too much water pressure on the eggs. Treat the water with an anti-fungal medication to protect the eggs from fungus. The fertilized eggs hatch at the optimal water temperature of 69.8 degrees Fahrenheit.