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Bubble Eye Fish
History
The Bubble Eye Fish (Carassius auratus), also known as Goldfish Bubble Eye, is a striking and unique goldfish variety. Native to China, this breed was developed during the Qing Dynasty in the 18th century, known for its distinct bubble-like sacs beneath the eyes. These bubbles are an exciting feature for fish enthusiasts, making the Bubble Eye a sought-after ornamental fish in many aquariums. Due to their delicate features, they require specialized care to ensure they thrive in a safe and comfortable environment. Today, they are prized for their docile temperament and unusual appearance.
- Weight: Fully grown Bubble Eye Fish weigh between 1 to 2 ounces (30 to 60 grams).
- Length: Bubble Eye Fish typically grow to about 3 to 4 inches (7 to 10 cm) in length, although they can grow slightly larger in optimal conditions.
- Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Bubble Eye Fish is about 5 to 10 years when given proper care and stable tank conditions.
- Coats: The coats of Bubble Eye Fish are actually their shimmering, colorful scales, which vary in hue depending on their breeding and environment.
- Colors: These fish come in a range of colors, including bright orange, yellow, and red, often with different shades on their fins and bodies.
Appearance: What They Look Like
Bubble Eye Fish are easy to recognize thanks to the large, fluid-filled sacs under their eyes, which are the defining characteristic of this breed. These sacs are delicate, giving them a whimsical and fascinating look. They have a round, compact body and long, flowing fins, similar to other fancy goldfish varieties. Their vibrant color can range from orange to red, yellow, and occasionally even white. Their short, slightly flattened faces make them appear almost “puffy,” and their eyes are often expressive, giving them a unique charm.
Behavior and Temperament
Bubble Eye Fish are peaceful and gentle, known for their calm demeanor. They are not territorial and generally get along well with other non-aggressive fish. However, due to their delicate bubble sacs, they can be easily stressed by rough tankmates or sudden changes in water conditions.
While these fish are mostly passive, they do require a stable environment to avoid health complications. They are usually active swimmers but may occasionally float at the surface due to the buoyancy of their bubble sacs.
Compatible Tankmates
Due to their peaceful nature and delicate features, Bubble Eye Fish should be housed with non-aggressive and non-competitive tankmates. They thrive with other slow-moving fish and gentle species that won’t disturb their bubbles or outcompete them for food.
Ideal Tankmates | Tankmates to Avoid |
âś” Other fancy goldfish varieties (e.g., Orandas, Ranchus, Ryukins) | âś– Fast-swimming fish (e.g., Comets, Shubunkins) |
Ideal Living Environment
Bubble Eye Fish require a spacious tank to accommodate their unique bodies and delicate fins. A minimum of a 10-gallon tank is recommended to allow them to swim freely. The water temperature should be between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C), and the pH level should range from 6.5 to 7.5. These fish prefer slightly acidic to neutral water conditions. Bubble Eye Fish also benefit from the presence of plants and hiding spots in their tank, as this provides comfort and reduces stress. Due to their fragile eyes, they should not be kept with sharp objects or decorations that could potentially cause injury.
Breeding Black Moor Goldfish
Breeding Bubble Eye Fish requires a separate breeding tank with stable water parameters. To stimulate spawning, gradually raise the water temperature to around 75°F (24°C). After the female is ready to lay eggs, the male will court her by chasing her and nudging her. Once the eggs are laid, they should be removed to prevent the adults from eating them. The eggs typically hatch within 4 to 7 days. Once the fry are born, they should be fed finely crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp to promote healthy growth.
Health Considerations
- Water Quality: Maintain clean, well-filtered water to prevent common goldfish diseases like fin rot, swim bladder issues, and velvet disease. Regular water changes are essential to keeping the environment healthy.
- Temperature: Stable water temperature is vital, as fluctuations can lead to stress or illness. A heater is recommended to maintain a consistent temperature.
- Diet: Feed your Bubble Eye Fish a varied diet of high-quality goldfish pellets, supplemented with occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms.
- Tankmates: Bubble Eye Fish should be housed with peaceful species to avoid stress or injury to their delicate eyes and fins.
- Parasites and Infections: Monitor for signs of common goldfish diseases like ich or fungal infections, especially on the fins or body. Immediate treatment can help prevent complications.
- Stress: These fish are sensitive to environmental stressors such as poor water quality, overcrowding, or aggressive tankmates. Reducing stress factors is essential to ensuring their long-term health.
What should I feed my Bubble Eye Fish?
Bubble Eye Fish should be fed high-quality goldfish pellets, along with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. Feed them small portions twice a day to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality.
What size tank do Bubble Eye Fish need?
Bubble Eye Fish should be kept in at least a 10-gallon tank, although larger tanks are preferred to ensure they have enough space to swim and thrive. A well-maintained environment is crucial for their health.
Can Bubble Eye Fish live with other fish?
Bubble Eye Fish are peaceful and can live with other non-aggressive species. It’s best to house them with slow-moving fish that won’t compete for food or stress them. Avoid tankmates with sharp fins or aggressive behavior.
How can I care for my Bubble Eye Fish's delicate eyes?
Ensure the tank is free of sharp objects or decorations that could cause injury to their bubble sacs or eyes. Regularly check their environment for potential hazards and keep the water quality high to avoid infections or stress.
What are common signs of illness in Bubble Eye Fish?
Signs of illness in Bubble Eye Fish include lethargy, loss of color, abnormal swimming patterns, or visible lesions on the body or fins. If you notice any unusual behavior, investigate further and consult an aquarium professional or veterinarian.