Why do goldfish eat other fish?

Goldfish by nature are not aggressive, and are not predatory. Goldfish tend to browse for food, eating mostly what are bite-sized morsels, of anything edible. … But, if they happen to come across small fish (e.g. baby goldfish), they do not discern, and they will eat it if they can catch it.

Why do goldfish eat each other?

Goldfish are territorial, so they may eat their new tank mates if things are too crowded. … Even though goldfish don’t get aggressive too often, they have been known to eat at fish that are considered weak in the tank. If a fish is sick or injured then the goldfish won’t want them in their territory anymore.

Why do goldfish kill other fish?

Additionally, goldfish tend to grow larger and faster than most common tropical aquarium fish, turning tropical fish from tank mates to prey. … This causes goldfish and tropical fish to have resistances to different diseases, allowing them to be carriers for diseases that can kill each other.

Do goldfish cannibalize?

Goldfish are not very territorial. However, if an aquarium is already too small for one goldfish, it will certainly be too small for two or more. … Cannibalism is usually rare (occurring maybe when a fish is dying or dead) but in cramped, stressful situations, goldfish may behave unpredictably.

Can One goldfish kill other?

Overcrowded. Fantail goldfish can become aggressive if they don’t have enough space in their fish tank. According to PureGoldfish.com, confined quarters can make the fish feel like they need to compete for space, causing them to chase one another in an attempt to claim their territory.

How long do goldfish live for?

Goldfish have a lifespan averaging about 10-15 years, with some varieties living up to 30 years when provided with proper care. Unfortunately, many goldfish do not reach their lifespan potential due to inadequate housing conditions.

How can you tell if a goldfish is a boy or a girl?

Male goldfish tend to have more flowing fins and tails compared to females. Male goldfish tend to have a slightly smaller and skinnier body compared to females. Females will have a larger and rounder body and their abdomen can appear soft.

What fish can I mix with goldfish?

With these ground rules in mind, here are our top 10 tank mates that we have personally tested and found to be compatible with goldfish:
  • Hillstream Loach. …
  • Brochis multiradiatus. …
  • Dojo Loach. …
  • Bristlenose Pleco. …
  • Rubbernose Pleco. …
  • White Cloud Mountain Minnows. …
  • Ricefish. …
  • Hoplo Catfish.

Is it cruel to keep goldfish?

So if it’s true proper care can make a bowl a haven for goldfish, without causing harm or suffering, then goldfish bowls can’t be considered as cruel. … And if it degenerates to the most natural habitat for goldfish, then no fish needs to be kept in captivity- whether on fish tanks, aquariums, or bowls.

Can I put small goldfish in with big goldfish?

As long as they won’t fit in the larger goldfish’s mouth, smaller goldies should be berfectly safe with larger goldfish.

Do goldfish bite other fish?

Some goldfish are outgoing while others are shy. … If your goldfish begins to display aggressive behaviors, such as biting another goldfish in the tank, you must find out why. A goldfish may become aggressive because he doesn’t have enough space in the tank, he’s mating or he’s sick.


What do goldfish do when pregnant?

Some fish appear to ‘nest’, by hiding out in shelters and plants. Pregnant goldfish also start to eat less when they are about to spawn. If you notice one of your fish refusing their food, it may be a sign that they are going to lay their eggs soon.

Is it okay to have just one goldfish?

To answer the question: Yes, goldfish can live alone. In fact, many goldfish can live long, healthy, happy lives all on their own. Just remember though, not all goldfish will be happy on their own, and some would prefer the company of other tank mates.

How do I know if my goldfish are mating or fighting?

The mating “dance” of goldfish is tiring and they will chase each other nearly to the point of exhaustion! This usually goes on for several hours and may also include the male nipping at the female’s tail and fins. For obvious reasons, this behavior is often confused with fighting.

How do you know if goldfish are fighting?

If you notice one goldfish chasing another goldfish all the time, or biting them, then they are fighting. If this is happening in your tank, you’ll need to do something about it.

How do I stop my fish from chasing each other?

You add a new fish of the tank that’ll disorient the existing fish. And make them reestablish new