Veiltail Goldfish Care Guide
The veiltail goldfish (Carassius auratus) is one of the most elegant fancy goldfish available in the UK. Known for its long, flowing fins and graceful appearance, it's a striking addition to a carefully maintained aquarium.
In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about veiltail goldfish care, including tank size, water conditions, compatibility, feeding, and typical UK prices - plus how to buy or sell them locally.
Quick facts about Veiltail Goldfish
Veiltail goldfish are a fancy variety bred for their exceptionally long, trailing fins and double tail. Their fins are more delicate than most other goldfish varieties.
They are slow swimmers and require calm conditions and suitable tankmates.
Carassius auratus
15-20 cm
Domesticated (developed from East Asian carp)
100L+ (single fish)
10-15+ years
Peaceful, very slow-moving
18-24°C
Omnivore (sinking pellets, vegetables, frozen foods)
6.5-8.0
£10-£30+ per fish
How Many Veiltail Goldfish Should You Keep?
Veiltail goldfish are social and should be kept with other suitable fancy goldfish.
- Keep at least 2 where possible
- Only house with very slow, gentle varieties
- Ensure plenty of space per fish
Keeping too many in a small tank can lead to:
- Poor water quality
- Competition for food
- Stress and fin damage
Careful stocking is essential due to their delicate fins.
Ideal Tank Conditions for Veiltail Goldfish
Creating a calm, safe environment is key to keeping veiltail goldfish healthy.
- Tank Setup: Spacious aquarium with gentle water movement
- Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel to prevent damage
- Plants & Decor: Use only smooth decor and soft plants
- Water Conditions: Stable, well-oxygenated water
- Filtration: Strong but gentle filtration (avoid strong currents)
- Lighting: Moderate lighting is suitable
Avoid sharp objects and strong flow, as their fins are easily damaged.
Compatibility with Other Fish
Veiltail goldfish require very careful tankmate selection.
- Good Tankmates: other slow fancy goldfish such as orandas, ranchu, and fantails
- Avoid: common or comet goldfish, fin-nippers, and active species
Their long fins make them especially vulnerable to nipping and damage.
Are Veiltail Goldfish Easy to Care For?
Veiltail goldfish are moderately difficult to care for and are best suited to hobbyists with some experience.
They require:
- A calm, well-maintained tank
- Gentle filtration and low flow
- Careful tankmate selection
- Regular maintenance
Their delicate fins and slow movement make them more sensitive than hardier varieties.
Veiltail Goldfish Price in the UK
In the UK, veiltail goldfish typically cost between £10-£30+ per fish. High-quality or show specimens may cost significantly more.
Prices vary depending on:
- Fin length and symmetry
- Colour and pattern
- Size and quality
- Shop vs hobbyist sellers
They are considered a premium fancy goldfish.
Where to Buy Veiltail Goldfish in the UK
Veiltail goldfish are available from specialist aquarium shops and breeders.
Sourcing fish locally can:
- Reduce transport stress
- Allow inspection of fin quality
- Offer better value
TankMate UK helps connect fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely - without shipping.
Can You Sell Veiltail Goldfish?
Yes - veiltail goldfish are often sold or rehomed by hobbyists and breeders.
Selling locally is often the best option, as it:
- Minimises stress for the fish
- Avoids the risks of transport
- Helps connect with knowledgeable buyers
TankMate UK allows you to list fish quickly and find local buyers.
Feeding Veiltail Goldfish
Veiltail 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 buoyancy and swim bladder issues.
Common Problems with Veiltail Goldfish
Fin damage or tearing, often caused by:
- Sharp decorations
- Strong water flow
- Fin-nipping tankmates
Swim bladder issues, linked to:
- Poor diet
- Overfeeding
Poor water quality, due to:
- Overstocking
- Inadequate filtration
Why Veiltail Goldfish Are So Popular
- Elegant, flowing fins
- Graceful swimming behaviour
- Highly prized by enthusiasts
- Visually striking centrepiece fish
- Unique among fancy goldfish varieties
When kept correctly, veiltail goldfish are a beautiful and refined addition to a carefully maintained aquarium.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, their long fins make them more delicate than most goldfish.
Yes, but only with slow, gentle fancy varieties.
No, they are coldwater fish but require stable temperatures.
At least 100 litres for one fish, with more space for additional fish.
Looking to Buy or Sell Veiltail 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