Goldfish Breeding Guide

Goldfish are prolific breeders, especially when kept in outdoor ponds where the natural seasonal temperature fluctuations mimic their breeding cycle. In spring, when water temperatures rise to around 20°C, males begin chasing females, nudging their abdomens to encourage the release of eggs. Goldfish prefer to breed in larger spaces, such as ponds, as they provide more room for the fry to develop. However, with careful water temperature control, breeding can also be successful in aquariums.

For breeding in aquariums, it is important to gradually raise the water temperature after a brief cool period to trigger the spawning behavior. Females release hundreds to thousands of eggs, which stick to plants or surfaces. The eggs should be separated from the adult fish in both pond and aquarium environments to avoid predation. Once the fry hatch, usually within a week, they require specialized care, including very fine, protein-rich food to support their rapid growth.