Bubble Eye Goldfish: Everything You Need to Know
Bubble Eye Goldfish is a unique type of fancy goldfish with two large, bubble-like sacks located beneath their eyes. They are characterized by their slow, graceful swimming style and mesmerizing eyes.
With their signature bubble-y eyes and vibrant colors, Bubble Eye Goldfish make a striking addition to any tank. However, they require special care to ensure they remain healthy and happy.
In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about Bubble Eye Goldfish, from their basic care requirements to the best tankmates for them.
What Is a Bubble Eye Goldfish?
A Bubble Eye Goldfish is a unique type of ornamental fish characterized by the two fluid-filled sacs located behind its eyes. This characteristic is where it gets its name – the eyes look like bubbles floating on the fish’s face!
It is a member of the carp family and is closely related to the Lionhead Goldfish and Celestial Goldfish. Bubble Eye Goldfish have large eyes, long fins, and a rounded body shape.
They come in various colors and patterns and can reach up to 6 inches in length. Bubble Eye Goldfish have become popular aquarium fish over the years due to their remarkable appearance and ease of care.
This type of fish is a popular choice among aquarium hobbyists thanks to its unique physical characteristics and overall hardiness.
Description of Bubble Eye Goldfish
Size
Bubble Eye Goldfish are known for their small size. They typically range from 4.5 to 6 inches in length when fully grown. Their small size makes them ideal for a smaller tank and they can even be kept in a bowl.
These goldfish also have short and stubby bodies that often cause them to swim in circles. This is because of their protruding eyes, which make them top-heavy.
Their eyes do not weigh them down too much and they can still maneuver around the tank with ease.
Lifespan
Bubble Eye Goldfish are known to be long-lived. The typical lifespan of a Bubble Eye Goldfish is between 8-15 years with some living even longer. Proper care, a healthy diet, and regular water changes are essential for a long life.
In their natural habitat, Bubble Eye Goldfish can live up to 10 years, but their lifespan is usually much shorter.
And in captivity, these fish can reach their full potential with proper care. It is important to monitor your fish’s health regularly and make sure they are eating a healthy diet and getting regular water changes.
The lifespan of a Bubble Eye Goldfish can also be impacted by the type of water they are kept in and the temperature of their environment.
These fish thrive best in clean water that is slightly acidic and kept at temperatures between 65 and 72°F. Poor water quality and inappropriate temperatures can reduce their lifespan significantly.
Finally, it is important to remember that Bubble Eye Goldfish can reach the age of 8 or 9 years before they start showing signs of old age.
As long as you take good care of your Bubble Eye Goldfish, they should remain healthy and happy for many years to come.
Characteristics of Bubble Eye Goldfish
Bubble Eye Goldfish are known for their unique look, and they have some distinct characteristics that make them stand out from other goldfish varieties.
The Bubble-y Eyes
The most noticeable feature of Bubble Eye Goldfish is their two “Bubbles” located just above their eyes. These bubbles are made of fatty tissue that can be quite large or small depending on the size and age of the fish.
Bubble Eye Goldfish also have more widely spaced eyes than regular goldfish, giving them a more cartoon-like appearance.
Physical Appearance
They can come in many different colors, including orange, white, red, black and calico. Their bodies are usually long and slender, which allows them to swim gracefully.
Temperament
In terms of temperament, Bubble Eye Goldfish tend to be quite shy and will often hide when startled. They prefer to be in schools of three or more, so it’s important to keep them with other friendly fish.
Bubble Eye Goldfish are also known to be gentle and peaceful, making them ideal for a community aquarium.
Although Bubble Eye Goldfish are sensitive to water changes and may not do well in colder temperatures, they are generally hardy fish that can adapt to a wide range of conditions.
Colors and Patterns of Bubble Eye Goldfish
Bubble Eye Goldfish come in a variety of colors and patterns, including calico, black, red, orange, white, yellow, and blue.
The most popular color pattern is the classic orange and white combination. Bubble eyes can also have metallic scales that are usually black or red. Some specimens may have mixed colors, such as red and white or black and orange.
The head of a Bubble Eye Goldfish can have a wide range of colors and patterns. Common colors for the head include black, red, orange, white, yellow, and blue. The most common pattern is the classic orange and white combination.
However, you may also find bubble eyes with mixed colors, such as red and white or black and orange, if they have been bred with other varieties of goldfish.
The body of a Bubble Eye Goldfish can be solid-colored or variegated. Solid-colored varieties include calico, black, red, orange, white, yellow, and blue.
Variegated varieties may have any combination of two or more of these colors. The most popular color combinations are orange and white or black and white.
The Origins
The Bubble Eye Goldfish is a relatively new species of ornamental fish, originating in the early 19th century. This type of goldfish was developed by Chinese breeders as a result of various crossbreeding experiments.
As its name implies, the distinguishing feature of the Bubble Eye Goldfish is its two large bubble-like sacs that protrude from its eyes.
These fish are also sometimes referred to as “Fantail Goldfish” or “Pompom Goldfish” because of the bubble-like protrusions from their eyes.
In fact, the Bubble Eye Goldfish is a variation of the Telescope Eye Goldfish, which has large, protruding eyes.
While the original purpose of these unique eyes was to enable the goldfish to observe prey more easily, over time, the eyes have become a desired trait for aquarists who find them aesthetically pleasing.
Popularity and Availability
Bubble Eye Goldfish are popular among aquarists due to their unique appearance and relatively easy-care requirements. They are widely available in many pet stores, both locally and online, though some rarer varieties may require more searching.
Bubble Eye Goldfish have been bred into a variety of beautiful colors and patterns, making them popular choices for aquariums and ornamental ponds.
In the United States, Bubble Eye Goldfish are not as widely kept as some of the more common varieties, such as the Common Goldfish or the Comet Goldfish.
However, they are still a popular choice for aquariums, as their unique appearance and hardiness make them appealing to aquarists.
Bubble Eye Goldfish can also be found in many public aquariums around the world, often in large tanks featuring other varieties of goldfish.
How Much Is the Cost of Bubble Eye Goldfish?
The cost of a Bubble Eye Goldfish will depend on several factors, including size, color, quality, and breeder. Generally speaking, these fish range in price from $10 to over $50.
The most expensive Bubble Eye Goldfish are usually rarer varieties or larger specimens. Higher-quality Bubble Eye Goldfish with vivid colors and attractive markings will also be more expensive.
The Variants
There are two main types, the Celestial and the Telescope. Each type has its own unique characteristics and features.
Celestial Bubble Eye Goldfish
The Celestial Bubble Eye Goldfish is a single-tailed variety with eyes that point upwards and to the sides. They have a rounded body shape with a wide fin tail.
The color patterns vary from fish to fish, but most commonly they are black and white, orange, red and white, or calico.
Telescope Bubble Eye Goldfish
The Telescope Bubble Eye Goldfish is a double-tailed variety with eyes that point outwards from the body and usually have an upward tilt.
This gives them the distinctive “Telescope” look. The body shape is slightly elongated and they have a narrow fin tail. Common color patterns include black and white, red and white, orange and white, and calico.
Other Variants
There are other variants of the Bubble Eye Goldfish, such as the Shubunkin, Comet, and Butterfly varieties.
The Shubunkin is a mix between a regular goldfish and a Comet Goldfish, which has a long body and twin caudal fins. And the Butterfly variety has longer fin tails with spots on the back of the dorsal fin and on the sides of the caudal fin.
All of these variants can make a great addition to any aquarium.
Diet and Feeding
Bubble Eye Goldfish require a diet that consists of high-quality protein-rich foods. It is important to feed your Bubble Eye Goldfish a variety of foods to ensure they get all the necessary vitamins and minerals they need.
What Do Bubble Eye Goldfish Eat?
Commercial foods specifically designed for goldfish are a good option, as they are meant to provide a balanced diet.
You can also supplement their diet with live or frozen food such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia. If you choose to feed them live food, make sure it is disease-free.
Do Bubble Eye Goldfish Eat Live Foods?
Bubble Eye Goldfish are omnivores and should be fed a varied diet of high-quality food. Live food such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms are beneficial for goldfish and can be a part of their diet.
Not to mention, live foods should only make up a small part of their diet due to the potential of introducing disease into their tank.
Other suitable foods for Bubble Eye Goldfish include flakes, pellets, and frozen food such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and mosquito larvae.
How Often Should Bubble Eye Goldfish Be Fed?
It is important to remember to only feed your Bubble Eye Goldfish what they can eat in three minutes or less. Overfeeding can cause digestive issues and water quality issues, so make sure you only give them what they can eat in one sitting.
It is also recommended to feed them multiple times a day in smaller portions rather than one big meal. This will help to avoid overfeeding.
How Much to Feed Bubble Eye Goldfish?
As with all goldfish, it is important to ensure they are not overfed, as this can lead to obesity and disease. A good rule of thumb is to feed your goldfish twice a day, only giving them as much as they can eat in two minutes.
Habitat and Tank Requirements of Bubble Eye Goldfish
If you are a novice Bubble Eye Goldfish owner, get to know the suitable habitat and tank requirements in which your pet will thrive.
Tank Size
The size of the tank depends on the number of goldfish you have, but it should be at least 10 gallons for each fish. Bubble Eye Goldfish need a lot of space for swimming, so you should provide them with a larger tank.
How Many Bubble Eye Goldfish Can You Keep in a Tank?
Bubble Eyes can be kept in small groups and should not be kept with other aggressive fish. Ideally, you should keep two or three Bubble Eyes in a 20-gallon tank.
If the tank is larger than 20 gallons, you can keep up to five fish together. And if you decide to add more fish, you will need to increase the size of the tank accordingly.
What Are the Ideal Water Parameters?
Bubble Eye Goldfish is a cool water species and need to be kept in an aquarium of at least 20 gallons. They can handle temperatures ranging from 60-76 degrees Fahrenheit and should have clean, filtered water that is between pH 6-8.
The tank should also include hiding places, caves, and plants to simulate their natural environment.
Bubble Eyes prefer soft and slow-moving water, so they should not be placed in tanks with a lot of flow. As for the type of substrate, fine gravel or sand is best to prevent injury to the fish’s eyes and delicate fins.
Filtration for Bubble Eye
Given their delicate eye bubbles, it is important to note that Bubble Eye Goldfish must be kept in pristine water conditions with regular water changes and filtration to keep them healthy.
In addition, their eyes can easily become infected if they are not properly cared for, so it is important to be extra diligent with their care.
How to Maintain Its Tank?
Bubble Eye Goldfish need a spacious tank with plenty of room to swim. It’s important to keep the water clean and the tank well-maintained by changing the water regularly and keeping the filter clean. This practice will ensure a long and healthy life for your goldfish, and keep it happy.
How to Decorate Its Tank?
When it comes to decorating the tank, provide ample hiding spaces using decorations like live or artificial plants, rocks, driftwood, and more. Remember to always ensure that the decorations don’t have any sharp edges that may hurt your fish.
Bubble Eye Goldfish also enjoy a good environment with plenty of oxygen, so keep a filter running and a heater for the winter months.
Which Plants Are Best for Bubble Eye Goldfish Tank?
When it comes to plants, Java Moss, Java Ferns, Anubias and Hornwort are ideal for a Bubble Eye Goldfish tank. These plants will help to maintain a balanced pH level, as well as provide a natural environment for the fish to live in.
How Much Lighting Is Perfect?
Bubble-eye goldfish have upturned eyes due to protrusion and need sufficient lighting in their tank to help them navigate.
However, it’s important to keep their aquarium out of direct sunlight and to use a soft artificial white light for their tank. Because sunlight can cause the tank water to heat up and give birth to algae.
By providing them with the right lighting, you can ensure your bubble eye goldfish can swim better.
Tank Mates
When choosing tank mates for your Bubble Eye Goldfish, it is important to consider the size of your tank and the temperament of your fish.
The Bubble Eye Goldfish are slow and gentle, so they are best paired with other peaceful fish. It’s a good idea to avoid any fish that could out-compete them for food or nip at their fins.
If you have a large tank, consider adding some other types of goldfish, like common goldfish or fancy goldfish breeds. Fish such as danios, tetras, and barbs are also compatible tank mates.
You should avoid larger fish like oscar, tiger barb, puffers, etc. that could attack or eat smaller goldfish and make sure to research each fish type before adding them to the same tank. Be sure to monitor the behavior of your fish to make sure they are all getting along well.
Behavior and Habit
This breed of goldfish is known for its timid and calm nature.
Are Bubble Eye Goldfish Aggressive and Cruel?
Bubble Eye Goldfish are quite peaceful and non-aggressive by nature. They can live with other types of goldfish in the same tank, but it’s important to keep an eye on their interactions to ensure that no harm is done.
These goldfish do not require any special companion, but they do enjoy plenty of hiding spots, so a densely planted tank is ideal. Overall, Bubble Eye Goldfish are gentle and docile pets that make great additions to community aquariums.
Breeding
Nothing is more interesting than letting your Bubble Eye Goldfish spawn and see its family grow. Get to know how you can make it happen.
Spawning Conditions
Bubble Eye Goldfish is one of the few species of goldfish that are capable of breeding in captivity. To do so, however, you must first create a suitable environment for spawning.
This includes a tank with plenty of space for swimming and plants for the eggs to stick to. The water should also be clean and of a temperature between 65- and 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
During the spawning period, both male and female Bubble Eye Goldfish will form what is known as a ‘Nuptial Embrace‘ in which they face one another and the female releases her eggs while the male fertilizes them.
After they have finished their spawn, they should be removed from the tank to prevent them from eating the eggs. It is natural for any ornamental fish like goldfish as they don’t know the difference between their food and their fry.
Once the fry has hatched, they should be fed a variety of small foods, such as brine shrimp or baby fish food until they reach adulthood.
How to Identify Male and Female Bubble Eye Goldfish?
Male Bubble Eye Goldfish usually have larger eyes, longer dorsal and anal fins, and larger bodies than females. They also possess tubercles on their head and gill plates.
Females typically have shorter fins and a more rounded body shape. They also tend to be smaller than males.
Both sexes can also be distinguished by observing their breeding behavior. Males tend to display a larger tubercle around the base of their pectoral fin, while females may be seen chasing after males and nipping at them.
Health and Care
In order to let your Bubble Eye Goldfish live a better life, it’s important to check up on its health. Here are some ways to know the health of your Bubble Eye Goldfishes.
How to Identify Healthy Fish?
Healthy Bubble Eye Goldfish will have bright eyes and fins that are not clamped to their bodies. They should be active and responsive to their environment. Their scales should be intact, and they should have no visible signs of disease or injury.
You should also look for a consistent pattern of activity, eating regularly, and regular excretions. If your fish is showing any signs of illness or trauma, seek advice from a vet or aquaculture specialist.
Regular water tests and temperature checks can help identify any health problems early on, allowing you to address them quickly. With the right care and attention, your Bubble Eye Goldfish can remain healthy and happy for many years to come.
Possible Common Diseases
Bubble Eye Goldfish are susceptible to many of the same diseases and illnesses as other aquarium fish. Let’s have a look at the most common ones.
Eye Injuries
Eye injuries can occur if they are exposed to sharp objects in their tank. The eyes of bubble-eye goldfish are more exposed, which can easily get hit on while the fish is swimming around.
White Spot Disease
White spot disease is a common parasite that can cause small white spots on the fish’s body. These spots are a contagious parasitic disease that occurs after removing the fish from their natural habitat, such as the pond. The parasites are self-occurring.
Bacterial Infections
Bacterial infections can result from poor water conditions, such as high nitrates or low oxygen levels.
Flukes
Flukes can infect your fish if not taken care of properly.
Regular water changes and proper care is important for keeping your fish healthy. Additionally, look out for any signs of illness or injury and consult with a vet if needed.
Medical Uses of Bubble Eye Goldfish
Japanese goldfish experts reveal that the fluid in the sacs under the eyes of these goldfish can be used as a cell stimulant.
They are also known to reduce stress and since promote relaxation. The healing powers of Bubble Eye Goldfish have been documented in various cultures, including the American and European culture throughout history.
Therefore, it’s not surprising that they have become a popular choice for medicinal treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bubble Eye Goldfish Suitable for Beginners?
Despite their delicate appearance, Bubble Eye Goldfish are quite tough creatures that can thrive in captivity if kept in the right environment and given proper care.
They can tolerate a wide range of water temperatures and conditions, making them an ideal choice for novice aquarists.
How long do Bubble Eye Goldfish live?
Bubble Eye Goldfish typically live for about 8 to 10 years with proper care. With optimal conditions, they can even live up to 15 years.
To ensure a long life, make sure to provide clean and clear water, high-quality food, and the right tank conditions.
Are Bubble Eye Goldfish difficult to care for?
When selecting a Bubble Eye Goldfish, look for signs of good health, such as bright eyes, fins that are not clamped or tattered, and a full, rounded body.
Before you purchase your new fish, make sure you have everything needed to provide them with a healthy and safe environment.
Can Bubble Eye Goldfish be kept with other fish breeds?
Yes, Bubble Eye Goldfish can be kept with other fish breeds, provided they have enough space to swim around and that the tank has adequate filtration.
While they can be territorial and may nip at each other, they can also live happily in a community aquarium as long as they are kept in compatible groups.
How much do Bubble Eye Goldfish cost?
Bubble Eye Goldfish are relatively affordable and typically range in price from $7 to $20. Depending on where you buy them, you can sometimes find rarer varieties that may cost more.
It’s also important to remember that you’ll need to purchase additional supplies, like a tank and filter, which can add to the total cost.
How big do Bubble Eye Goldfish get?
Bubble Eye Goldfish can grow up to 6 inches in length and weigh around 1 to 2 ounces when fully grown. Depending on the tank environment, diet and other factors, some can even reach a maximum size of 8 inches.
Conclusion
Bubble Eye Goldfish can be an interesting and rewarding addition to any tank. With proper care, they can live a long and healthy life. As with any pet, it’s important to understand the needs of your fish before you purchase them.
Research the best diet and tank requirements for Bubble Eye Goldfish so that you can provide the best care possible.
Finally, take the time to learn how to identify male and female Bubble Eye Goldfish and recognize common health issues so that you can provide appropriate medical treatment when needed.
References
- https://www.ufaw.org.uk/fish/bubble-eye-goldfish-bubble-eye#:~:text=Bubble%2Deye%20goldfish%20are%20a,also%20have%20no%20dorsal%20fin.
- https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2016/10/11/national/japanese-goldfish-experts-explore-use-bubble-eyes-medicine/
Image Credits:
- Canva.com/Photos
- Shutterstock.com/photos