Fish
Comet Goldfish
Carassius auratus
Origin: The comet is a long-bodied goldfish breed developed in the USA in the late 19th century. Like all goldfish it descends from the Prussian carp (Carassius auratus) and does not occur in the wild.
Also known as: Comet-tailed goldfish, Carassius auratus
Fact sheet
- Size
- 30 cm
- Lifespan
- 15 years
- Minimum tank size
- 150 L
- Temperature
- 10–24 °C
- pH
- 6.5–8
- Hardness GH
- 8–20 °dH
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Social behavior
- Schooling
- Group size
- 3+ individuals
- Swimming zone
- Middle, Top
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Jumps out
- Yes
- Eats plants
- Yes
Overview
The comet is one of the hardiest and most active goldfish breeds, with a slender long body and a very long forked tail resembling a comet's tail. It is a fast, active coldwater fish that does best in a pond or spacious aquarium. Unlike round-bodied fancy breeds, the comet is robust and undemanding, but it grows large and needs a big volume. An excellent choice for ponds and large coldwater aquariums.
Appearance
The body is slender and elongated, with a long single forked tail that in adults can reach the body length; overall length with the tail is up to 30 cm. Colour is most often orange-red, with calico (shubunkin-like), red-and-white, and yellow forms. Sexual dimorphism is weak.
Care
A pond or tank of at least 150 L for the first fish plus a generous allowance for each additional one, with powerful filtration and aeration. Temperature 10–24 °C (a coldwater species), pH 6.5–8.0, hardness GH 8–20. Swimming space, clean water, and regular water changes are needed. A lid is advisable — the active fish jumps.
Feeding
An omnivore. The base is sinking goldfish pellets; supplement with blanched vegetables, greens, and live or frozen food. It is prone to overeating, so feed moderately once or twice daily. Reduce feeding in cool water.
Compatibility
A peaceful but fast and large fish. Keep with other long-bodied goldfish of similar pace — commons and shubunkins. Do not combine with slow fancy breeds: the comet will outcompete them. Warm-water tropical fish are unsuitable because of the temperature difference.
Breeding
It breeds like other goldfish: in spring as temperatures rise, males chase females and eggs are scattered over plants. In a community tank the eggs and fry are usually eaten. Preserving the tail form requires selective breeding.
Fun facts
The comet was developed in the USA; the name comes from the long tail resembling a comet's trail. It is one of the fastest and hardiest goldfish. With good care it lives 15 years or more.