Does my goldfish need a friend?

Question

Hi, I have one fancy goldfish (a fantail) in a 10 gallon tank, he's only about 3 inches long... he seems happy enough on his own and my tank isn't big enough for a second goldfish, i don't think, but I'm just wondering if there are other fish he could share the tank with or if it's even necessary to add more fish? I didn't think goldfish necessarily needed tank mates but lots of people have disagreed with me so I just want to make sure. Is he fine on his own or should I get him a friend?

Answer 1

no its not a good idea

Answer 2

Goldfish are better of with other goldfish. I wouldn't put any other type of fish with a goldfish as it would probably pick on it. Goldfish are fine on there own but if you where to get a bigger tank so it had company I would recommend you have three together as two fish in a tank can lead to one bulling the other.

Answer 3

he's fine right now! his tank is too tiny... my goldfish seemed lonely and then i go her a playmate and she automatically perked up and swam over to him! they were besties :)

Answer 4

It would be nice if you could get him a friend but in that size tank there is just no way. He will be okay alone though. The rule for goldfish is generally 20 gallons for the first one and 10 gallons for everyone after that. So unless you can upgrade to a 30 gallon adding a friend is out of the question. Although your tank right now is not a 20 gallon you can make it work (at least for a while). Just up your filtration by either buying a better filter or getting another one and keep on eye on your water parameters. Also keep an eye on your fish if he starts to looked at all cramp you will probably need to upgrade (this may or may not happen).

Good Luck with your little guy! And don't worry he won't get too lonely!

Answer 5

sorry its not even big enough for him

he needs 20 gallons

or 30 gallons for 2

Answer 6

at the current tank size its not advisable however a tank mate would be nice.   Yup he will be okay alone

kOi keeper & goldfish keeper

Answer 7

You should get him a friend later but not right now

Answer 8

no

Answer 9

Fish don't like friends. The more space they have the better. Keep him happy and mabye upgrade his tank, but his is fine. Make sure he has plants and a good filter with a airpump. If a goldfish is looked after well they can live over 40 years!