How to Care for a Goldfish in 10 Gallon Aquarium

Goldfish are known to grow rather quickly and require a lot of space. A 10 gallon aquarium is the smallest tank a single goldfish can live in comfortably and for each additional fish another 10 gallon upgrade should be provided. Goldfish may be one of the most common pet fish, but there are stiff difficulties that go along with them.

Things You'll Need

• Fish tank
• Distilled water
• Water filter
• Air generator (optional)
• Sand, gravel or decorative marbles
• Fish food
• Fluorescent lighting unit
• Goldfish
• Fish tank sponge

Instructions

1. Clean the fish tank without using any soap or harmful chemicals. Fill the tank up with water and let it sit for at least 24 hours so the chlorine and chemicals found in tap water can oxidize.

2. Clean the material that will rest at the bottom of the fish tank in regular water and place it in the tank.

3. Follow the directions for the water filter's specifications and have it begin its cycle. The optional air generator can be placed at the bottom of the tank to help add oxygen into the water as well.

4. Place the fluorescent lighting unit on top of the tank. This should cover the entire tank so the goldfish can not accidentally jump out.

5. Place the fish into the fish tank after the water has oxidized. If green algae appears on the sides of the tank, clean it off with the sponge.

Tips & Warnings

• Distilled water can be used in place of tap water and reduce the waiting time to place a fish in it. Recycling milk jugs and storing water will reduce the waiting time for distilling water. Some algae on the sides of the tank is a natural process and will not harm the fish.

• Do not place fish directly into tap water, as it is not oxidized and can suffocate it. Do not change the water for the fish tank more than once a week.