fresh water fish- red spots

Question
QUESTION: my small goldfish has got red spots appearing all over his body he is still eating and swimming and he seems his normal old self but I'm concerned about the spots and what i can do to help him as i have had him for ages and become dearly attached. he lives with 4 other little fish but they are fine and do not have any red spots. i hope you can held ASAP X

ANSWER: Hi Ellie:

You have described a disease called specimecia. It is usually caused by poor water quality.  Sometimes it appears as red spots and sometimes you may actually see blood in his fins.   Goldfish need to be in a large aquarium of at least 20 gallons preferably 30-55 gallons.  They can live 20-30 years but seldom make it past a year or two in captivity.  Goldfish can also grow to be quite large I have seen 20 inch goldfish (including tail)but the thing to remember about goldfish are that they are very messy.  Their tank needs 50% water changes at least twice per week in 30 gallon tanks or change 50% every other day in smaller containers.  Goldfish should never live in bowls.  They need lots of room and water that circulates gently.  

I would change 50% of the water in the tank and add aquarium salt.  I would also make sure that the gravel in the tank is cleaned using a gravel vacuum.  If you do not already do so I would get your water chemistry tested. Most aquarium stores will test your water for free. If you do get your water tested let me know what the chemical values are so that I can provide you with further assistance.  Even the clearest of tank water can become deadly without notice.  Regular water changes along with tank cleanings will help your fish safe and healthy. The oldest goldfish on record was 43 years old and she was a goldfish someone won at a carnival.  Keep me posted... dave


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: ok umm i have just now cleaned my goldfish tank. my goldfish don't live in a bowl they live in a fairly sized tank i also have got testers but i haven't been cleaning it regularly so i will clean it 50% every week ok

Answer
I was just giving you general information about goldfish and their care because the amount of information in your original emal was very limited.  When people write to us we give advice based on the iformation at hand and sometimes we hear back from people and sometimes we dont... so for me I try to cover everything in one email in case the questioner doesnt get back to me.  I would try cleaning the tank... if the spots get worse let me know.