Goldfish
The goldfish (*Carassius auratus*) is a domesticated freshwater fish in the carp family, Cyprinidae, native to East Asia.
The goldfish (*Carassius auratus*) is a domesticated freshwater fish in the carp family, Cyprinidae, native to East Asia. It is widely kept as an ornamental aquarium and pond fish, and released fish have become invasive in some regions. Goldfish were selectively bred in China more than 1,000 years ago and now exist in many varieties.
Taxonomy and origin
Goldfish (*Carassius auratus*) are a species of freshwater carp in the family Cyprinidae. They originated in East Asia, particularly China, where domestication and selective breeding for colour and form began more than 1,000 years ago.
Description and varieties
Goldfish exhibit wide variation in colour, size, body shape, and fin structure as a result of centuries of selective breeding. Many named breeds exist, including common and fancy varieties. Goldfish are omnivores.
Behaviour and habitat
Goldfish are freshwater fish commonly kept in aquariums and ponds. Their adaptability to a range of conditions contributes to their success as invasive species when released into the wild.
Human use and ecological impact
Goldfish have long been valued as ornamental pets and water-garden fish. In some regions, escaped or released goldfish can establish wild populations and become invasive, affecting native ecosystems. In Canada, released goldfish can become invasive in local waters. The species is listed as Least Concern on the conservation status.
Key facts
- Goldfish are a domesticated form of a freshwater carp native to East Asia.
- Selective breeding in China began more than 1,000 years ago.
- Goldfish are among the most popular aquarium and pond fish.
- Released goldfish can become invasive in some regions.
- Goldfish show wide variation in colour, size, body shape, and fin structure.
Goldfish are kept as pets in Canada, but released fish can become invasive in Canadian waters. Canadian readers may also encounter local restrictions or guidance on releasing aquatic pets, especially where wild populations are established.
Frequently asked questions
What is a goldfish?
Where do goldfish come from?
Are goldfish invasive?
What family do goldfish belong to?
Why are goldfish different shapes and colours?
References
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/goldfishSupports: Goldfish are *Carassius auratus*, ornamental aquarium and pond fish, native to East Asia.
- National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/fish/facts/goldfishSupports: Scientific name, diet, typical lifespan, size, and domestication as an ornamental fish.
- Encyclopedia.com — https://www.encyclopedia.com/plants-and-animals/animals/vertebrate-zoology/goldfishSupports: Goldfish are freshwater carp from China, domesticated about 1,000 years ago, with many colour forms.
- Animal Diversity Web — https://www.animaldiversity.org/accounts/Carassius_auratus/Supports: Native range in eastern Asia, habitat, longevity, and invasive status in some regions.
- Minnesota Department of Natural Resources — https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/aquaticanimals/goldfish.htmlSupports: Goldfish are freshwater carp, omnivorous, variable in appearance, and can be invasive when released.
- Pennsylvania Sea Grant — https://seagrant.psu.edu/resources/resource-item/goldfish-ais-fact-sheet/Supports: Goldfish as an aquatic invasive species in North America and their ornamental introduction history.