Transporting goldfish requires careful planning to ensure their safety and minimize stress.
According to recommendations from Aquatic Veterinary Services, the method of transport depends on the size of the fish:
- For goldfish under 8 inches long, they recommend using a 5-gallon bucket with a lid.
- For goldfish over 8 inches long, they recommend using bags.
They also note that transporting large volumes of water is difficult, as ten gallons of water weighs about the same as 83.5lb (or 37.8kg). Therefore, keeping containers under 5 gallons is advised for easier transport, reinforcing the use of 5-gallon buckets for smaller fish.
Essential Steps for Transporting Goldfish
Moving goldfish, whether across town or a longer distance, involves several key steps:
1. Choose the Right Container
As advised by Aquatic Veterinary Services:
- Small Goldfish (Under 8 inches): A clean, new 5-gallon bucket with a secure lid is suitable. Buckets offer stability and are reusable. Ensure it has never held chemicals.
- Large Goldfish (Over 8 inches): Special fish transport bags are recommended. These are typically thick, durable plastic bags designed to be inflated with oxygen.
| Fish Size | Recommended Container | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Under 8 inches | 5-gallon bucket with secure lid | Stable, reusable, easier to carry under 5 gal |
| Over 8 inches | Fish transport bags | Durable, can be sealed with oxygen |
Practical Insight: Remember that water is heavy. Keeping transport containers relatively small (like the 5-gallon bucket recommended for smaller fish) makes them much easier to manage, especially since 10 gallons is roughly 83.5 pounds.
2. Prepare the Water
- Use water from the goldfish's original tank if possible, as this minimizes stress from changing water parameters.
- If using fresh water, ensure it is properly dechlorinated and treated to neutralize chloramines.
- The water temperature in the transport container should match the temperature of the original tank water as closely as possible.
3. Prepare the Fish
- Avoid feeding the goldfish for 24 hours before transport. This helps keep the water in the transport container clean during the journey.
- Handle fish gently when transferring them. Use a soft net or a separate container to scoop them from the tank.
4. Ensure Oxygenation
- For buckets: Leave enough air space at the top of the bucket (at least 1/3 of the volume). The movement of the water during transport can help oxygenate it.
- For bags: Professional fish handlers often use pure oxygen to inflate the bags before sealing. For short trips, leaving ample air space with regular air might suffice, but pure oxygen is safer for longer durations. Double bagging can prevent leaks.
5. During Transport
- Keep the container stable and upright to minimize splashing and stress.
- Protect the fish from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and drafts. Insulating the container (e.g., placing it in a cooler box without ice) can help maintain a stable temperature.
- Minimize the duration of the trip whenever possible.
Following these guidelines, including the specific container recommendations from Aquatic Veterinary Services based on fish size and the practical consideration of water weight, will help ensure your goldfish arrive safely at their new destination.
