The Red & White Wakin is a specific variety of goldfish, known for its distinctive tail and hardiness. Goldfish, in general, are a very popular choice for home aquariums and ponds due to their vibrant colors and interesting personalities.
Here's a comprehensive care guide for the Red & White Wakin goldfish:
Appearance:
- Body Shape: Wakin goldfish have a body shape that is typically more elongated and less "egg-shaped" than fancy goldfish varieties (like Orandas or Ryukins), resembling a more natural, streamlined goldfish body.
- Tail: Their most distinguishing feature is a split, double caudal (tail) fin that is held in a somewhat "fan-like" or "butterfly-like" spread, particularly when viewed from above. It's often deeply forked. This is different from the single tail of a common goldfish.
- Coloration: As the name suggests, they display a combination of bright red and clean white patches. The patterns vary greatly from fish to fish, making each one unique.
- No Dorsal Fin Deformities: Unlike some fancy varieties, they have a normal, prominent dorsal fin.
Adult Size:
- Wakin goldfish are a relatively large variety of goldfish. They can reach an adult size of 6 to 12 inches (15-30 cm) or even larger in ideal conditions, especially in ponds.
Natural Habitat:
- Goldfish (Carassius auratus) are domesticated forms of the Prussian carp, native to East Asia. They are not found in the wild in Caboolture, Queensland, but are widely kept in artificial environments.
Aquarium/Pond Care (Easy to Moderate Level):
- Tank Size (Crucial!): This is one of the most critical factors for Wakin goldfish, especially given their potential size.
- Minimum for 1 Wakin: A 40-gallon (150 liters) tank is the absolute minimum for a single Wakin goldfish.
- For Multiple Wakins: Add at least 10-20 gallons (38-75 liters) per additional fish. For instance, two Wakins would ideally need 60-80 gallons.
- Ponds are Ideal: Due to their large size, Wakin goldfish are arguably best suited for outdoor ponds in climates like Caboolture, Queensland, where they can reach their full potential and enjoy more stable temperatures year-round.
- Water Parameters: Goldfish are tolerant of a wide range of conditions, but stability is key. They are cold-water fish, meaning they don't require a heater in most indoor setups in Caboolture's climate, and do well in ponds.
- Temperature: 65-75°F (18-24°C) is ideal, but they can tolerate cooler temperatures in ponds (down to about 50°F or 10°C) if acclimated gradually. Avoid rapid temperature swings.
- pH: 7.0-8.0 (slightly alkaline is fine).
- Hardness: Moderately hard water is generally preferred.
- Ammonia and nitrites must be 0 ppm. Nitrates should be kept below 20 ppm (or even lower if possible).
- Filtration: Goldfish are very messy eaters and produce a lot of waste, so oversized and robust filtration is essential.
- Use a filter rated for at least 2-3 times the volume of your tank.
- Canister filters, hang-on-back filters with good flow, and sponge filters (as supplemental) are good choices.
- For ponds, ensure adequate pond filtration.
- Water Changes: Frequent and substantial water changes are crucial.
- Perform 25-50% water changes weekly for tanks, depending on stocking density and filtration.
- For ponds, regular partial water changes are still beneficial, especially during warmer months.
- Substrate:
- Bare bottom: Easiest for cleaning.
- Large gravel or sand: If using gravel, ensure it's large enough so the fish cannot swallow it (to prevent impaction). Fine sand can be okay as they love to sift through it, but it requires more careful cleaning to prevent anaerobic pockets.
- Diet:
- Omnivorous: Goldfish are opportunistic omnivores.
- Offer a varied diet of high-quality goldfish-specific pellets or flakes as a staple.
- Supplement with blanched vegetables (e.g., peas - shelled, zucchini, spinach), and occasional meaty treats (e.g., bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia). Avoid overfeeding, as this contributes to poor water quality.
- Avoid cheap, low-quality foods, which can cause digestive issues.
- Temperament:
- Peaceful: Wakin goldfish are generally very peaceful and can be housed with other single-tailed or robust, large fancy goldfish varieties.
- Active: They are active swimmers and will explore all levels of the tank or pond.
- Tank/Pond Setup:
- Provide plenty of open swimming space.
- For tanks: Smooth rocks, artificial plants (ensure they are fish-safe and firmly anchored), or hardy live plants (like Anubias, Java Fern, or larger Swords – be aware goldfish may nibble or uproot plants).
- For ponds: A mix of deep and shallow areas, aquatic plants (e.g., water lilies, hyacinths - but protect roots from nibbling), and hiding spots.
- Disease Susceptibility: Generally hardy if kept in clean, spacious conditions. Poor water quality and overcrowding are the leading causes of illness (e.g., fin rot, ich, swim bladder issues).
- Acclimation: Always acclimate new fish slowly to your tank or pond's water parameters.
- Quarantine: Recommended for any new fish before introducing to an established system to prevent disease transmission.
