It's just a goldfish...but...

Question

I have a goldfish, and the little guy has been with us for about two weeks. Not bad I guess. However, today I noticed that on either side of his head (where his gills are?) the color has changed from a golden yellow to a maroon red color. Is there something wrong with him, and if there is, is there something I can do? I know he is just a goldfish, but I can't help it. I've become attached. :)

Answer 1

Sounds like ammonia poisoning. Is your goldfish tank cycled? Is it in a bowl? There is nothing he could pass on and I think he would benefit in a larger tank, so I say put him in the larger tank and it should clear up.=)

Answer 2

Either it has an infection ( mericin II )or your gold fish is a boy and I would consider getting a bigger tank and try finding a female. Do you use a heater ? They need cold water and check the ph and if its in a bowl change the water every 2 days.In the wild they live in running cold streams. 35 yr old goldfish at Grandpa's house.

Answer 3

First of all, GET HIM OUT OF THE BOWL! No fish is suitable in a bowl, they need air, and space. Did you treat the water first? It does sound like ammonia poisoning. You need to put water conditioner in to get all the chemicals that will kill your fishies out. How big is your tank? As the other answer said, a goldfish will need at least 20 gallons so if you already have fish in the bigger one, it may be too crowded. I hope hes ok!  

Answer 4

2 weeks good for a goldfish? try 15 yrs......

Answer 5

aww... how cute, you love your gold fish, im not too sure about your problem tho, maybe take him to the vet?? sorry lol

Answer 6

One goldfish requires a minimum of a 20 gallon tank with excellent filtration to live a healthy life.  Your fish is showing signs of ammonia poisoning/burns.  A goldfish will grow to be 8" for a fancy or over a foot for a common and can live for 20 yrs +.  

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Answer 7

ok, well usually that means a breathing problem. did u declorinate the water? because he might not be getting enough oxygen put a bubbler in there and maybe he is a breed of goldfish with coloring? Like i had a fish that turned out to be a koi and it had wierd spots.