A change of as little as 2 degrees is enough to cause issues. The bad part is that the water temperature doesn’t even have to fluctuate by that much. This state is called “temperature shock” and it requires immediate attention. Sudden temperature fluctuations can induce a dangerous response in goldfish. Temperature fluctuations are damaging for your fish, and can even cause sudden death if the fish go into shock. Secondly, a heater is crucial for keeping the water temperature at stable levels. If the water temperature is below 68☏, a heater becomes necessary. Warmer water also encourages your goldfish to stay active. This is ideal if you want your goldfish to reach a larger size and to breed more easily. First of all, I would advise you to aim for a higher temperature, around 68-70☏. Most goldfish strains can live happy, healthy lives in temperatures as low as 64˚F.Īs long as your room temperature doesn’t drop any lower than that, you could safely keep the goldfish in a heater-free tank.Īll this being said, I still recommend a heater for a few reasons.
But they don’t necessarily need a heater. Goldfish can be kept in heated aquariums. Keep in mind these ranges apply to common goldfish types.Ĭertain species, such as Shubunkins, Comet, and Calico Telescope Eye goldfish prefer slightly lower temperatures, somewhere around 60-70˚F.
GOLDFISH AQUARIUM TEMPERATURE FULL
But goldfish kept in low temperatures won’t reach their full growth potential. Lower temperatures tend to slow metabolism and increase lifespan. A higher temperature encourages growth and appetite. This range means the temperature is high enough to keep your fish healthy and active. But in general, you should aim for 68-74˚F. The numbers differ slightly depending on the strain of goldfish you keep. The optimal temperature range for goldfish is actually quite narrow. There’s quite a range when it comes to temperature. But they can also live in slightly warmer water. They can adapt to various water parameters, including very cold water. Goldfish are considered cold water fish due to their sturdy nature. So, let’s get started! Goldfish Ideal Water Temperature I’ll also touch on issues such as the heater, temperature shock, and absolute temperature limits. I’ll cover everything you need to know, from the ideal water temperature for health, all the way to the optimal temperature for breeding your fish.
It’s certainly true that this species is highly adaptable to low water temperatures.īut how low are we talking? Is colder water better? What about the ideal range? Don’t goldfish need a heater?ĭon’t worry, I’m here to answer all these burning questions and more! Whether you’re a new goldfish keeper or are pondering moving your goldfish in a heated community aquarium, this article is for you! In the aquarium world, goldfish are known as sturdy cold-water fish.
There’s a lot of confusion surrounding goldfish and water parameters. The ideal goldfish water temperature is somewhat of a heated topic (pun completely intended).