Pearlscale Goldfish Care 101 – Food, Tank Mates, Tank Size & Tank Setup
The Pearlscale Goldfish is one of the fancy breeds of Goldfish species. They can instantly be recognizable by their metallic, pearl looking and almost see-through scales that contain pink or orange edging.
This Goldfish breed is considered hardier than other Goldfish breeds and makes a great addition to any freshwater aquarium or a pond setup. However, it would be best if you took proper care for this species to remain healthy.
Pearlscale Goldfish is a highly ornamental variety of the Common Goldfish. In addition to their popular scales, they have a V-shaped fin and prominent eyes, making them popular with hobbyists fishkeepers.
The following article is meant to be a guide with descriptions and care recommendations for the Pearlscale Goldfish.
| Quick Facts: | |
|---|---|
| Common Names : | Pearlscale Goldfish |
| Origin : | Japan and China |
| Family : | Cyprinidae |
| Scientific Name : | Carassius auratus |
| Care Level : | Easy |
| Temperament : | Peaceful |
| Social : | Community fish |
| Diet : | Omnivores |
| Size (average) : | 6 - 8 inches |
| Lifespan : | 8 - 10 years |
| Breeding : | Egg layer |
| Minimum Tank Size: | 30 gallons |
| Tank Environment : | Freshwater. Sand or gravel substrate. Driftwood and smooth rocks decorations. Silk or plastic plants. Must avoid sharpie objects. |
| Temperature : | 65 – 80 °F (18 – 26 °C) |
| Water pH Level : | 6.5 – 7.5 pH |
| Water Hardness : | 4 – 12 dKH |
Species Overview
This Pearlscale Goldfish is one of the oldest breeds of Goldfish, originating in China over 2,000 years ago. These Goldfish species are peaceful and need more care than most other types of Fancy Goldfish.
Keeping them healthy can be challenging due to their sensitivity to disease and water quality issues. If not appropriately maintained under aquarium conditions they might be live longer.
They are also susceptible to changes in water temperature and pH levels. This species requires hard alkaline water for optimum health.
Pearlscale Goldfish typically swim at about mid-water level and do best with plenty of objects such as aquarium rocks or driftwood for them to rest on. Make sure they have enough room to swim around as well, so a large fish tank is essential.
Like all Goldfish breeds, they are social creatures and need to be kept in a group of at least 5 individuals. They get along well with other community fish species but may nip at long-finned fish such as Angelfish.
Pearlscale Goldfish Size
Pearlscale Goldfish is one of the smallest varieties of domesticated Goldfish. They can grow between 6 to 8 inches in size. Some have even grown up to 10 inches long in an aquarium setting.
Moreover, the Pearlscale Goldfish size will also depend on the care that you have given to them such as food and aquarium condition.
Pearlscale Goldfish Lifespan
The average Pearlscale Goldfish lifespan is around 10 years. However, this number varies depending on how well they’re cared for and what type of accommodations they have.
Generally speaking, if you provide proper care for your fish, Pearlscale Goldfish lifespan should be around 8 to 10 years, with some living as long as 12 years.
Pearlscales Goldfish will live longer than many other breeds like Celestial Eye and Lionhead Goldfish that need warmer waters and prominent eyes.
Appearance and Colors
Pearlscales Goldfish have metallic scales that are enhanced by their nacreous appearance when light hits them right. As a result, the rankings appear almost see-through, with pink edging around each scale.
Their reflective quality is also enhanced by their lack of protruding eyes and upturned mouths, giving them a nearly regal gracefulness.
Pearlscale Goldfish come in various natural colors, including orange, red, white, yellow, green, brown, or grey. However, color mutations do occur to create many different types of Pearlscales in various bright colors.
The most commonly found type is the Orange Pearlscale which has pale fins and a dark backside with large round scales that appear almost bubbly.
Behavior and Temperament
Because Pealscale Goldfish can thrive well in cold waters, it is considered more “distant” than the Common Goldfish breed, which gets very active and close to people.
Pearl scales move around more slowly and have a reserved disposition that’s not as outgoing or aggressive as other goldfish varieties. These fish are often sold alongside Celestial Eye Goldfish and Lionhead Goldfish due to their similar temperament.
That is why it’s recommended to research the fish before purchasing them. While Pearlscales are relatively low maintenance compared to other varieties, their size makes them a good choice for an aquascape within an aquarium.
Pearlscale Goldfish can be kept in community tanks with other Goldfish of similar size because of their community-friendly behavior. They are also sometimes kept with plants, snails, and other small water creatures.
However, their care requirements can change depending on the tank or pond they live in, so it’s recommended to research everything about the fish you want to keep beforehand.
Pearlscale Goldfish Care
The care for Pearlscale Goldfish is the same as that of other Fancy Goldfish breeds. However, they do have some specific needs and care requirements that you must meet to keep them healthy and alive for a long time.
Pearlscale Goldfish are sensitive to nitrite and ammonia levels in the water, so frequent water changes and highly filtered tanks are a must.
Pearlscale Goldfish should be fed at least 1 to 3 times per day. They also have big appetites and will eat just about anything that fits into their mouths.
Pearlscale Goldfish are very colorful, have exciting scales that give them an almost iridescent quality, overgrow, eat big meals all the time, and need clean water to thrive! These fish are some of the most unique but also some of the most high-maintenance varieties.
– Pearlscale Goldfish Tank Size
Because of their size, these fish should be kept in a larger pond or tank. A minimum 30 gallons aquarium is recommended for one fish, with 125 gallons tank appropriate for a small group.
These fish need lots of room to swim to remain healthy and active. They usually swim at the bottom levels when they are young but stay near the surface much more often when they reach full maturity.
– Pearlscale Goldfish Tank Setup
Pearlscale Goldfish prefer to have an area for swimming, a place to “hide” in, and plants all around the bottom of the tank. The substrate can be gravel or sand.
A deep layer of about 10 inches is required because Pearlscale Goldfish spend lots of time at the bottom. Aquarium decorations for a Pearlscale Goldfish tank should either be rocks or inert decorations that won’t break apart into fragments that may become lodged in their gills.
These fish love going up against an object while they feed on the floor, so having plenty of big hard things will give them a good place to rub against while eating.
Pearlscale Goldfish need a fairly good filtration system and regular water changes because their waste is inconsiderable compared to other types of goldfish.
– Water Conditions and Parameters
Pearlscale Goldfish can tolerate a range of water conditions, but they do best when the temperature is between 65°F to 70°F.
Higher temperatures can cause increased growth and oxygen needs as well as internal damage due to osmotic pressure. But they can handle the temperature up to 80°F.
Water acidity levels should be kept between 7.0 pH and 8.5 pH; lower or higher pH can lead to serious health consequences such as bloat or respiratory distress.
Ammonia levels should be zero(0) because these fish are susceptible to this toxic chemical, and nitrite levels should also be zero because of their vulnerability to nitrate poisoning.
Nitrate levels must be controlled since these species proliferate and produce lots of waste, so regular partial water changes are recommended. Frequent water changes of 30 to 50% will also help to control nitrates.
- Water temperature: 65 – 80 °F (18 – 26 °C)
- Acidity levels: 6.5 – 7.5
- Water hardness: 4 – 20 dKH
– Pearlscale Goldfish Suitable Aquarium Plants
Plastic aquarium plants are more suitable for most Goldfish breeds because they try to uproot the plants. But placing live aquarium plants will help to maintain the underwater ecosystem.
Suitable aquarium plants for a Pearlscale Goldfish tank include:
- Anacharis
- Cabomba
- Java Fern
- Hornwort
– Possible Diseases and Prevention
Here are some of the most common diseases associated with Pearlscale Goldfish:
Dropsy – This happens when your fish has contracted a parasitic infection. This disease starts out looking like salt granules on the fish’s body, and it is painful for your fish, so you’ll want to take them out of their tank and place them into a separate quarantine tank for treatment.
Swim Bladder Disorder – Swim bladder disorder usually happens after eating and may be caused by constipation, so it would be best to feed them some peas once in a while and avoid overfeeding.
Fin Rot – You might notice some fraying of your fish’s fins that leads to more damage until half of its tail or more is gone. Some people treat this with aquarium salt, while others use an antibiotic.
Fungus – Fungal infections often start out looking like cottony tufts that lead into grown on the scales and then start to cover the whole fish. You can treat this with a fungicide.
To prevent diseases, you should observe the overall health of your goldfish. Any signs of illness should be considered a red flag and should prompt you to act quickly.
In addition, stress is often the cause of diseases, so providing enough space for swimming, clean water conditions, and a proper diet will help keep your pet healthy.
Pearlscale Goldfish Diet and Feeding
Pearlscale Goldfish are omnivores which means that they will eat both plant and meat. In addition, these fish eat small insects and other things throughout their day in the wild, so those foods would make for a good part of their diets if you choose to feed them live foods.
However, it would be best to feed them with a staple diet consisting of flakes and pellets. This will provide them with a complete source of nourishment without worrying about deficiencies or spikes in nutrients that could lead to illnesses.
Pearlscale Goldfish also require a balanced diet, including plant and animal matter. To make sure that your Pearlscale Goldfish gets all of the nutrients it needs, you should stick to high-quality flakes and pellets that are designed for goldfish.
Pearlscale Goldfish Gender Differences
A mature male Pearlscale Goldfish should have a body that is less deep than tall, whereas females should appear tall and thin. If you look at your Pearlscale Goldfish from the side, you should see a figure that is even on both sides.
If you notice that there is a big difference, then it’s a safe bet to assume that your fish is female. Males tend to have a slightly larger head and some rougher-looking knobs, while females have a smoother appearance with no bumps or ridges.
However, these differences can be subtle, so keep this in mind when determining whether your Pearlscale Goldfish is male or female.
Pearlscale Goldfish Breeding
The breeding rituals of a Pearlscale Goldfish can be pretty straightforward, but it depends on the type and individual because some are easier to breed than others.
Most varieties will form nests built from small pebbles and similar objects that they place in caves or under plants done by males.
Then, the male will go to the cave and start swimming back and forth over a specific area near a female until she releases her eggs for fertilization.
These two fish may spend hours trying to get the egg-laying right, so you must give them enough time before removing them from their tank if you’re trying to watch them procreate.
Once the mating ritual has been completed, the male will release his milt, mixing with her eggs to fertilize them. These offspring are not always genetically identical to either of their parents since they can have characteristics from both parents.
This is why you may see different colors or patterns among the young fish if one parent’s genetics are dominant over another’s.
Pearlscale Goldfish Tank Mates
Add compatible species when keeping multiple goldfish in a tank because they like to establish hierarchies within their social structures.
You can keep them with other types of Goldfish, and they will do fine. But pay close attention to any aggressive displays because even seemingly passive fish like the Celestial Goldfish can attack their tank-mates in some cases.
- Black Moors
- Fantail Goldfish
- Bubble Eye Goldfish
- Oranda Goldfish
- Lionhead Goldfish
- Ryukin Goldfish
Origin and Distribution
Pearlscale Goldfish are believed to have originated in China but are now bred in Japan, the United States, and Russia.
Pearlscales are also widely available worldwide in pet shops, making them very popular among aquarists of all levels, including beginners.
They’re often sold alongside other Goldfish varieties due to their hardy nature and tolerance to lower water temperatures. Many ornamental types cannot handle for extended periods.
Their high popularity is also owed to their ability to withstand moderate living conditions that would be harmful or fatal for other breeds.
Pearlscale Goldfish are distributed throughout the world for use in aquariums and ornamental ponds. These fish are relatively inexpensive, making them alluring to many people who can’t afford to purchase more expensive Goldfish varieties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Pearlscale Goldfish Hardy?
When properly cared for, Pearl Scale Goldfish are very hardy and can tolerate various water conditions. However, it is still essential to keep them in clean water with low nitrate levels because these factors can cause them to get sick.
Pearlscale Goldfish is also somewhat dependent upon dissolved oxygen levels. They can tolerate low levels of this oxygen better than other varieties. However, these fish will usually swim towards the tank’s surface if they feel like too little oxygen is available.
So make sure you keep them in an appropriately sized aquarium or pond to avoid health issues.
Can Pearlscale Goldfish Live in Ponds?
Pearlscale Goldfish can live in ponds, but you need to set up the proper environment before adding these fish.
Ensure that your pond has adequate filtration and oxygenation, cool water, a good quality substrate to build their nests, and enough space for them to establish their hierarchies.
The deeper the pond waters, the more comfortable they will feel. So try to go with at least 3 feet deep when adding this type of fish if possible.
Provide shade for your Pearlscale Goldfish because even though they can survive in warm or cold climates, they don’t like exposure since they are primarily benthic feeders.
Are Pearlscale Goldfish Easy to Take Care Of?
Pearlscale Goldfish are moderate in their maintenance requirements. They are not too challenging to take care of, provided that you meet their environmental needs.
You can accomplish this if you have the proper equipment for your aquarium or pond. These fish require regular water changes, testing kits to maintain safe chemistry levels, and routine tank cleanings.
However, if you provide them with the right environment, they will reward you by remaining healthy and active.
How Big Do Pearlscale Goldfish Get?
Pearlscale Goldfish get about 8 inches in length on average when they reach adulthood. However, this size may vary depending upon the care that they receive and the size of the environment they live.
What Is Crown Pearlscale Goldfish?
Crown Pearlscale Goldfish is distinctly different from other types because its scales do not develop until they reach adulthood. This variety also has a developed fold of skin beneath their mouths.
They comes in colors such as red, black, orange, white, and yellow; you need to note that these fish grow about 3 inches once becoming adults.
So they won’t be housed together with varieties like the Common or Comet Goldfish unless you plan on keeping them in huge tanks.
The best way to differentiate between the two breeds is by checking out their fins. Those on Crowns will end with pointed tips, while those growing on other types will end with rounded edges.
Where Can I Buy a Pearlscale Goldfish?
Now that you know how to care for your Pearlscale Goldfish, it’s time to find the perfect one!
The best place to buy these fish is from a breeder or reputable pet store since they are less likely to be exposed to infectious diseases, parasites, and other potential risks.
Be sure that you house these fish in separate tanks initially because their tolerances vary slightly. This is to make sure that each one gets used to its new environment at a pace that suits it best.
Also, ask whether any guarantees are provided before contracting with a seller because some may not allow returns. These fish go home with buyers.
How Much Is a Pearlscale Goldfish Cost?
The average cost of a Pearlscale Goldfish is between $10 and $30 per individual fish. However, you may be given discounts for bulk purchases or if you’re willing to take several smaller fish rather than one large one when buying from a breeder.
Ensure that they can provide you with at least three generations of ancestry information. These will come from the healthiest and most well-established lines, making them less vulnerable to genetic defects and other risks.
Final Thoughts
Pearlscale Goldfish are some of the most distinct and popular breeds of goldfish on the market today. Because they have a very endearing look while still being reasonably easy to care for.
If you’re looking for an active but peaceful option, these fish will provide a lot of entertainment while remaining low maintenance.
As long as you don’t mind dealing with higher ammonia levels from their waste during the initial cycling period, you’ll find that Pearlscale Goldfish make great additions to your aquarium or pond.
The knowledge you have gained about the world of Pearlscale Goldfish in this article will help you tremendously during your search for the perfect addition to your home tank or garden pond.
