Moe and Joe

Question
QUESTION: I just recently set up a 10 gal. tank for two black moors, Moe and Joe. My bedroom is really cold, and the water temperature is low, should I buy a small heater? Also, they stay at the bottom of the tank, and don't swim around a whole lot, is that because of the cold conditions, or just getting used to a new tank. I've had a lot of trouble keeping fish in the past, maybe it's because of where I buy them at, but maybe its me, are there any specific tips on caring for two black moors?

ANSWER: Hello Melissa:  yes your tank should have a heater and you should set is somewhere between 78-82 degrees... cold water brings disease in tropical fish.  Sounds like to me that they are lethargic due to the cold water... warm them up a bit and they will be very social.  Feed them a varied diet and keep their tank warm and clean.. make sure you clean the gravel during weekly water changes... change 10-20 percent... a gravel vacuum is an inexpensive treasure... they are about $12 at an aquarium store.  Buy your fish from an aquarium not a pet store...yes they cost a bit more money but you are buying quality.. and the money you save at a pet store will be spent on medication or replacing dead fish.... hope this helps... dave

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QUESTION: ok, I've gotten a heater, and they seem happier, but they still hang out by the bubbler. should I get a larger bubbler? is there not enough air in the water? I just want them to be happy.

ANSWER: Hi Melissa:  How large is the bubbler you currently have?  Sometimes fish enjoy the water movement as opposed to just a still tank.  Goldfish usually just like stiller water but your Moor's may just like the small amount of current that the bubbler provides... You may consider adding a few more Moors to the tank.  Do they come out of the bubbler at feeding time?  keep me posted... dave

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QUESTION: the bubbler is pretty small, and they fight for the space underneath it. they do come out at feeding time, but they don't move too far away from the bubbler, its kind of funny actually. they act like kids around a candy jar, they just keep flocking to it. would getting more fish for my 10 gallon tank be alright, i've read that you should have at least 10 gallons of water per goldfish, so I figured that I already had too many fish.

Answer
Hello:  The one goldfish per ten gallons is a good rule but you can add another fish or two... the deal is though you have to add more oxygen and you have to clean the tank more often... I would definitely get either a second air pump and air stone for your "kids" or a longer bubbler wand.  goldfish are great creatures.  dave