How to acclimate new goldfish?

Congratulations on getting your new goldfish, and thank you for getting them from us. Let's acclimating your new goldfish to your aquarium, and this is a crucial step to minimize stress and ensure they adjust well to their new environment. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you acclimate your new goldfish properly:

1. Preparation

Quarantine Tank:

  • Set up a quarantine tank with minimal size 20 gallons with water temperature between 78 - 82°F (18-24°C) to monitor your new fish for diseases before introducing them to the main tank. This tank should have similar water parameter and conditions in your main tank.

2. Floating Method

Float the Bag:

  • Once your fish arrived, make sure and check the fish condition.
  • Turn off the aquarium lights to reduce stress on the new fish.
  • Place the sealed bag containing the new goldfish in the quarantine tank, allowing it to float on the surface. This helps equalize the temperature of the water in the bag with that of the aquarium.
  • Let the bag float for minimum 30 minutes and no more than a hour.

3. Water Mixing

Gradual Water Addition:

  • Open the bag carefully and roll down the edges to create an air pocket that will keep it afloat, you can add aerator to enhance the oxygen circulation.
  • Add a small amount of aquarium water (about a quarter cup) to the bag every 10 - 15 minutes. Repeat this process for about 60 - 90 minutes. This gradual mixing allows the goldfish to slowly acclimate to the water chemistry of your tank.

4. Final Transfer

Net the Fish:

  • After acclimation process, use a fish net to gently transfer the goldfish from the bag into the aquarium. Avoid adding water from the bag into your tank to prevent any potential contaminants.

5. Post-Acclimation Care

Monitor the Fish:

  • Observe your new goldfish closely for the first few hours and days. Look for signs of stress or illness, such as unusual swimming patterns, lack of appetite, or visible spots or lesions.
  • Keep the aquarium lights off for a few days to help reduce stress.

Feeding:

  • Wait a minimum 2 days before feeding the new fish. Offer a small amount of food to see if they are interested, but don’t be alarmed if they don’t eat immediately as they may still be acclimating.

6. Quarantine Period

Quarantine (Recommended):

  • Using a quarantine tank, keep the new goldfish in quarantine for 2 weeks. This allows you to monitor their health and treat any potential diseases before introducing them to your main tank.
  • Make sure to check the water parameter during the quarantine time, and change the water regularaly.

7. Introducing to Main Tank

Gradual Introduction:

  • After the quarantine period, repeat the acclimation process to introduce the goldfish from the quarantine tank to the main tank.

By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth transition for your new fancy goldfish, reducing stress and increasing the chances of a healthy and happy life in your aquarium.

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