Fantail Goldfish Care Guide
The fantail goldfish (Carassius auratus) is one of the most popular fancy goldfish in the UK. Known for its rounded body and flowing double tail, it's a hardy and beginner-friendly option among fancy varieties.
In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about fantail goldfish care, including tank size, water conditions, compatibility, feeding, and typical UK prices - plus how to buy or sell them locally.
Quick facts about Fantail Goldfish
Fantail goldfish are a fancy variety of goldfish bred for their split tail and rounded body shape. They are more robust than many other fancy goldfish, making them a good entry point into keeping these varieties.
They are slower swimmers than single-tailed goldfish and require appropriate tankmates.
Carassius auratus
15-20 cm
Domesticated (derived from East Asian carp)
100L+ (single fish)
10-15+ years
Peaceful, slow-moving
18-24°C
Omnivore (sinking pellets, vegetables, frozen foods)
6.5-8.0
£4-£12 per fish
How Many Fantail Goldfish Should You Keep?
Fantail goldfish are social and should be kept with other suitable fancy goldfish.
- Keep at least 2 where possible
- Only house with similar slow-swimming varieties
- Ensure adequate space for each fish
Overstocking can lead to:
- Poor water quality
- Stress and competition
- Stunted growth
Providing enough space is essential for long-term health.
Ideal Tank Conditions for Fantail Goldfish
Creating the right environment helps fantail goldfish thrive.
- Tank Setup: Spacious aquarium with open swimming areas
- Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel to prevent injury
- Plants & Decor: Use smooth decor and hardy plants
- Water Conditions: Stable, well-oxygenated water
- Filtration: Strong filtration is essential due to high waste output
- Lighting: Moderate lighting is suitable
Avoid sharp decorations to protect their fins.
Compatibility with Other Fish
Fantail goldfish should only be kept with compatible species.
- Good Tankmates: other fancy goldfish such as Black Moor, Oranda, and Ryukin
- Avoid: common or comet goldfish (too fast), tropical fish, and fin-nippers
Their slower swimming makes them vulnerable to competition.
Are Fantail Goldfish Easy to Care For?
Fantail goldfish are easy to care for and are ideal for beginners looking to keep fancy goldfish.
They require:
- A well-filtered, spacious tank
- Regular water maintenance
- Appropriate tankmates
- A balanced diet
They are more forgiving than many other fancy goldfish varieties.
Fantail Goldfish Price in the UK
In the UK, fantail goldfish typically cost between £4-£12 per fish.
Prices vary depending on:
- Colour and pattern
- Size and quality
- Shop vs hobbyist sellers
They are widely available and affordable.
Where to Buy Fantail Goldfish in the UK
Fantail goldfish are widely available in UK aquarium shops and from private sellers.
Sourcing fish locally can:
- Reduce transport stress
- Improve survival rates
- Offer better value
TankMate UK helps connect fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely - without shipping.
Can You Sell Fantail Goldfish?
Yes - fantail goldfish are often sold or rehomed by hobbyists.
Selling locally is often the best option, as it:
- Minimises stress for the fish
- Avoids the risks of transport
- Helps find suitable homes
TankMate UK allows you to list fish quickly and find local buyers.
Feeding Fantail Goldfish
Fantail goldfish require a balanced and appropriate diet.
Key Tips:
- Feed high-quality sinking pellets
- Supplement with vegetables like peas and spinach
- Offer occasional frozen or live foods
- Avoid overfeeding
Sinking foods help reduce the risk of swim bladder issues.
Common Problems with Fantail Goldfish
Swim bladder issues, often caused by:
- Poor diet
- Overfeeding
Fin damage, caused by:
- Sharp decorations
- Aggressive tankmates
Poor water quality, linked to:
- Overstocking
- Inadequate filtration
Why Fantail Goldfish Are So Popular
- Classic fancy goldfish appearance
- Hardier than many other fancy varieties
- Peaceful and beginner-friendly
- Wide range of colours
- Suitable for dedicated fancy goldfish tanks
When kept correctly, fantail goldfish are attractive, active fish that are ideal for home aquariums.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they are one of the best beginner-friendly fancy goldfish.
No, common goldfish are too fast and will outcompete them.
No, they are coldwater fish but prefer stable temperatures.
At least 100 litres for one fish, with more space for additional fish.
Looking to Buy or Sell Fantail Goldfish Locally?
TankMate UK connects fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely within their local area.
Whether you're stocking your aquarium or passing fish on to a new home, you can:
- Browse fish available near you
- List your own fish in minutes
- Avoid the risks of transport