Essential Goldfish Equipment Guide — Items Beginners Should Get First

# Overview of Equipment Needed for Goldfish Keeping

While goldfish may seem easier to care for than tropical fish, establishing a proper breeding environment requires certain equipment. Many people have experienced the unfortunate situation of putting a goldfish from a goldfish scooping game directly into tap water, only to watch it die. However, by setting up an appropriate environment, goldfish can live for 10 to 20 years or longer.

In this article, we will explain the equipment beginners should acquire first, divided into three categories: "Essential," "Recommended," and "Convenient to Have."

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Essential Equipment

Aquarium A minimum of 10-20L of water per goldfish is required. For keeping 2-3 goldfish, a 45-60cm aquarium (30-60L) is appropriate. Large varieties such as ranchu, oranda, and ryukin reach 20-30cm as adults, so a larger tank will be needed in the future.

Filter (Filtration System) Goldfish produce more waste than other ornamental fish and contaminate water faster. A filter is essential.

• External filter: Offers the highest filtration capacity. Recommended for tanks 60cm or larger.
• Top filter: Good cost-performance ratio with easy maintenance. Standard choice for 60cm tanks.
• Sponge filter: Most convenient but limited filtration capacity. Best used as a supplementary system.

Air Pump (Bubbler) Goldfish consume considerable amounts of oxygen. If your filter has an aeration function, a separate air pump may not be necessary, but if oxygen supply is insufficient, an additional air pump is required. Particularly during hot summer months when dissolved oxygen levels drop, enhanced aeration is important.

Water Conditioner (Chlorine Neutralizer) Tap water contains chlorine and chloramines that are harmful to fish. Use when performing water changes. Liquid types are most common and provide immediate results.

Thermometer The ideal water temperature for goldfish is 15-28℃. A thermometer is essential because temperature can fluctuate rapidly due to seasonal changes and air conditioning. Constant monitoring is necessary.

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Recommended Equipment

Heater (Winter) While goldfish are tolerant of low temperatures, sudden temperature changes (5℃ or more in a day) cause weakened immunity and white spot disease. Especially for indoor tanks that are affected by heating and cold in winter, a heater provides peace of mind. Target temperature: 15-18℃.

Lighting Proper lighting is important for displaying the goldfish's body color beautifully. Additionally, a consistent lighting cycle stabilizes the goldfish's biological rhythm. A standard lighting duration is 8-12 hours per day. LED lighting offers the best value in terms of electricity costs and lifespan.

Cover Goldfish sometimes jump out of the tank. Active varieties such as calico goldfish and ranchu require special attention. A cover prevents accidental jumping.

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Convenient Equipment and Tools

Water Test Kit A kit that measures ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH. Especially useful for water management during initial setup. API Freshwater Master Test is user-friendly and the standard choice for beginners.

Gravel and Substrate Not essential, but serves as a substrate for bacteria colonization and contributes to the goldfish's pecking satisfaction. Large-grained, rounded gravel is recommended as goldfish are less likely to ingest it.

Dropper and Cleaning Tools A dropper (such as a tornado dropper) for regularly removing feces and leftover food that accumulate at the bottom makes water maintenance easier.

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Initial Cost Estimate

| Item | Estimated Price | |---|---| | 60cm aquarium (set) | ¥5,000–15,000 | | Top filter | ¥3,000–8,000 | | Water conditioner | ¥500–1,500 | | Air pump | ¥1,000–3,000 | | Lighting | ¥2,000–8,000 | | Thermometer | ¥500–2,000 | | Substrate | ¥500–2,000 | | Total | ¥12,500–39,500 |

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Choosing Goldfish Suited for Breeding at Br-Choku

Once you have assembled your equipment, it's time to select your goldfish. On Br-Choku, you can purchase goldfish directly from breeders who clearly specify breed, size, and care environment. You can also easily ask breeders questions such as "How many goldfish would be appropriate for a 60cm tank?" or "What varieties are easy for beginners to keep?" Set up your tank with all the equipment ready, and welcome healthy goldfish selected from Br-Choku.