How to Care for Carnival Goldfish

The goldfish is one of the most popular and immediately recognizable aquarium fish. Goldfish are often given away as prizes in games at carnivals and county fairs. Typically, they are handed out in tied-off plastic bags of water for temporary transport purposes. The fish must be transferred from those containers as soon as possible, as they cannot survive long in these bags. Fortunately, these pet fish are generally low maintenance after initially setting them up in a proper living space.

Things You'll Need

  • 10-gallon aquarium
  • Aquarium filter
  • Fish food
  • Algae scraper
  • Gravel substrate
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare an aquarium for your new pet goldfish. The aquarium should be able to hold at least 10 gallons of water per goldfish, although some people recommend 20 gallons per goldfish. Add an even layer of gravel substrate to the bottom of the tank, then attach the aquarium filter to the inside of the tank according to the directions that come with the filter. These steps will help to keep the water clean and your goldfish healthy and comfortable. Once the filter is set up, fill the tank with water. Make sure the water is between 55 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit as goldfish cannot survive outside of those temperatures.

    • 2

      Place the bag containing the goldfish directly in the tank. When the water temperature inside the bag matches the temperature of the tank, open the bag to release the goldfish and then remove the bag. The purpose of this step is to help the goldfish adapt to its new environment without shocking its system.

    • 3

      Feed your goldfish basic fish food purchased at your local pet store. Follow the directions and recommendations on its packaging to ensure that your fish receives proper nourishment.

    • 4

      Clean your fish tank when it appears dirty. With a 10-gallon tank, this should be necessary only once every few months or so. Fill a small separate fish bowl with water from the aquarium. Remove your fish from the aquarium by scooping it with a plastic container and then place it in the small separate fish bowl. Pour out half the water in the tank without removing the gravel substrate from the bottom. Scrub the inside of the glass using an algae scrubber purchased at your local pet store. A razor blade can be used to scrape off any algae that is otherwise difficult to remove. Once most of the algae has been removed, fill the rest of the tank with tap water between 55 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and carefully return your pet goldfish to its aquarium home.