Goldfish
The goldfish (*Carassius auratus*) is a domesticated freshwater fish in the carp family, Cyprinidae, native to East Asia.
Goldfish are domesticated freshwater carp native to East Asia. They have been selectively bred for over 1,000 years and are popular as ornamental pets.
What it is
Goldfish (Carassius auratus) belong to the carp family Cyprinidae. They were domesticated in China more than 1,000 years ago from East Asian carp. Centuries of selective breeding produced many varieties with different colours, body shapes, and fin types.
Why it matters
Goldfish are among the most popular aquarium and pond fish worldwide. However, released goldfish can become invasive in regions like North America and Australia, where they establish wild populations and affect native ecosystems. In Canada, local restrictions may apply to releasing aquatic pets.
Key details
Goldfish are omnivorous freshwater fish adapted to a range of conditions. They are commonly kept in aquariums and ponds. Their hardiness contributes to their success as invasive fish when released into the wild.
In short
- Goldfish are a domesticated form of a freshwater carp native to East Asia.
- They were selectively bred in China for colour and form more than 1,000 years ago.
- Goldfish are among the most popular aquarium fish and are also kept in ponds.
- Released goldfish can become invasive, including in parts of North America and Australia.
Goldfish are kept as pets in Canada, but released fish can become invasive in Canadian waters. Canadian readers may also encounter local restrictions or guidance on releasing aquatic pets, especially where wild populations are established.
Quick questions
What is a goldfish?
Where do goldfish come from?
Are goldfish invasive?
Sources
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/goldfishSupports: Goldfish are *Carassius auratus*, ornamental aquarium and pond fish, native to East Asia.
- National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/fish/facts/goldfishSupports: Scientific name, diet, typical lifespan, size, and domestication as an ornamental fish.
- Encyclopedia.com — https://www.encyclopedia.com/plants-and-animals/animals/vertebrate-zoology/goldfishSupports: Goldfish are freshwater carp from China, domesticated about 1,000 years ago, with many colour forms.
- Animal Diversity Web — https://www.animaldiversity.org/accounts/Carassius_auratus/Supports: Native range in eastern Asia, habitat, longevity, and invasive status in some regions.
- Minnesota Department of Natural Resources — https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/aquaticanimals/goldfish.htmlSupports: Goldfish are freshwater carp, omnivorous, variable in appearance, and can be invasive when released.
- Pennsylvania Sea Grant — https://seagrant.psu.edu/resources/resource-item/goldfish-ais-fact-sheet/Supports: Goldfish as an aquatic invasive species in North America and their ornamental introduction history.