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Bored goldfish?

23 16:52:36

Question
I have a common goldfish and a comet goldfish and lately they have seemed a little lethargic. I've checked water conditions and everything seems fine. Lately they've been hanging around the bottom of the tank and seem bored. When I get near the tank they get excited and start swimming around. Is it possible that they are bored and if so, how can I make their tank more exciting? I've read some things about getting another "critter" for the tank such as a crawdad to give them some stimulation but I just want to know what the best thing to do is.

Answer
Hi Jessica,
Are the ammonia and nitrite levels at 0? If they are higher, that might be causing the problem. Also, is the tank large enough for them? Goldfish need at least 10-15 gallons per fish or water conditions will get bad very quickly and make them sick. You could try doing a partial water change and see if they act differently.
I don't know if getting a crawdad would really help.
If your tank is large enough it might help if there were at least 2-3 more of the same type of goldfish to encourage them to feel more active. If you don't have plants, it might help to add several since sometimes fish feel more secure with plants and hiding places.
Observe them for a while just in case they are starting to get sick. I don't think that is the problem but just in case I would keep an eye on them .
Best of luck,
Karen