background
tv schedule store
logo nav barDiscovery ChannelThe Learning Channel (TLC)Animal PlanetTravel ChannelDiscovery Health Channel
.com address
bottom
search top
site index
search
November 22, 2009
Freshwater Fish
send to a friend
printer friendly version

Panda Butterfly Goldfish
More Fish
Ready for the next fancy goldfish? Check out the Ryukin Goldfish.

Back to Fancy Goldfish — Overview.

Open the Main Menu.

Panda Butterfly Goldfish
Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

The Panda Butterfly Goldfish is a color variation of the Telescope Goldfish, and is also known as the Dragon Eye Goldfish. The most stunning feature of this fish is the large protruding eyes resembling those of a dragon. They have long been considered as the most representative goldfish of China. The Panda Butterfly Goldfish is black and white in color, with feathery fins and tail.

When first hatched, the Panda Butterfly Goldfish has normal eyes that begin to bulge after about one month. It may take up to three months for the eyes to fully develop the protruding bulge that is so characteristic of this goldfish. The selection of a good specimen places much importance on the eyes. They should be large, protruding, and symmetrical.

All goldfish are members of the carp group and are generally quite hardy. The Panda Butterfly Goldfish will do well in a 30 gallon or larger tank with a fine gravel bottom and hardy, cold water plants. Goldfish are diggers and will scatter the fine sand onto leaves, injuring thin and less hardy plants. Roots and well-rounded river rocks are a good addition to the aquarium.

There appears to be a definite courtship ritual when Goldfish breed. Breeding often results in up to 1,000 eggs, with fry hatching in 5-6 days. The fry should be fed small pieces of live or prepared foods designed for egg-laying fish.

Goldfish are omnivorous and will eat all types of dried and live foods. Limit protein, however, to 30 percent of the diet. A Goldfish flake food will provide these fish with the proper nutrition.

Ideal tank mates include: Goldfish, Plecos, and some Scavenger Catfish.

Fish Facts
Name: Panda Butterfly Goldfish (Carassius auratus)
Family: Cyprinidae
Range: Asia, China, Japan
Size: Up to 8 inches
Diet: Omnivore
Tank Set-up: Freshwater: Rocks, plants
Tank Conditions: 65-75°F; pH 6.5-7.5; dH 4-20
Minimum Tank Capacity: 30 gallons
Light: High
Temperament: Peaceful
Swimming Level: Middle
Care Level: Easy
Reproduction: Egg Scatterer
advertisement

Picture(s): Courtesy of Drs. Foster and Smith |
Information provided courtesy of PetEducation.com

Discovery Channel | TLC | Animal Planet | Discovery Health | Science Channel | Planet Green
Discovery Kids | Military Channel | Investigation Discovery | HD Theater | Turbo | FitTV

HowStuffWorks | TreeHugger | Petfinder | PetVideo | Discovery Education

Visit the Discovery Store: Toys & Games | Telescopes | DVD Sets | Planet Earth DVD | Gift Ideas

By visiting this site, you agree to the terms and conditions
of our Visitor Agreement. Please read. Privacy Policy.
ATTENTION! We recently updated our privacy policy. The changes are effective as of September 10, 2008.
To see the new policy, click here. Questions? See the policy for the contact information.

Copyright © 2009 Discovery Communications, LLC.

The leading global real-world media and entertainment company.