Goldfish tank...

[powellmacaque]

What is a good tank size for a single goldfish and some tankmates?

What are good tankmates for goldfish? (I like to be geographically correct with my tankmates, so I'd prefer asian fish if possible.)

I want a community type tank, with the goldfish being a centerpiece if possible.

Would a 55 gallon be too small?

 

[SchizotypalVamp]

depends on the type of goldfish. Some fancies would work well in there. I would suggest a smaller one simply for lower bioload. Also, you could put in Bitterlings.

 

[J double R]

the only good tankmates for goldfish are other coldwater fish, such as goldfish.

 

[powellmacaque]

I was actually thinking something along the lines of a common goldfish.

I have one residing in another 55 with two firemouths and a blood parrot, but I would really like to move it to my other 55, or would that be a bad idea?

 

[SchizotypalVamp]

They are coldwater fish that grow up to a foot long, like temperatures of about 69 degrees, though of course they are superbly adaptable. They need at least 75 gallons, though I would suggest more if possible. Pretty sure the other fish won't tolerate it for much longer.
Also, see here.
http://freshaquarium.about.com/od/fishqa/f/coldwaterfish.htm

Just a note-goldfish will survive fine without buddies, but they do like them.

 

[powellmacaque]

I was really considering a pond for it, probably the easiest solution.

The only problem is I live in Florida, so "cold water" exists for about a month.

 

[SchizotypalVamp]

I kept mine in LA. They did just fine . Just make it deeper.

 

[powellmacaque]

K. Now how do I prevent snakes from having a goldfish dinner?

As you can see, I'm very naive to how ponds actually work.

 

[SchizotypalVamp]

Well, considering your location, I don't blame for being afraid of snakes, monitors, and god knows what else. You could buy a wire mesh to put over the pond, or you could make it indoor! I would suggest posting up in the pond section for more opinions.

 

[Agent_Scully]

To be rather honest, my opinion is that you can keep 1 fancy goldfish in a 10 gallon tank IF the tank is overfiltered by ALOT, if the fish is fed a varied diet, water changes are carried out at least once a week, and has excellent water parameters. If you have nothing else in the world to do, its very simple.