The Lionhead Goldfish is easy to care for and distinctive in appearance. It’s a great addition to any freshwater tank. They reach eight inches in length and have fantails and raised scales that set them apart from other goldfish. These fish are herbivorous and require minimal care. However, they need a tank that has a lot of filtration as they produce a lot of bioloads. Let’s look closer at the characteristics of this breed and how they might fit in your aquarium.
Quick facts about Lionhead Goldfish
| Species Name: | Lionhead Goldfish |
| Family: | Asian Carp |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Temperature: | 65-75oF |
| Temperament: | Peaceful |
| Color Form: | Variable |
| Lifespan: | 15 years |
| Size: | 5-8 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivore |
| Minimum Tank Size: | 20 gallons |
| Setup of a Tank | 6.5-7.5 pH, 4-20 KH |
| Compatibility: | Another peaceful fish |
Lionhead Goldfish Overview
The Lionhead Goldfish is by far the most popular goldfish that doesn’t have a dorsal tail. These fish are some of the most popular goldfish and can be found in aquariums all over the globe.
These goldfish are not naturally found; they were created for specific traits. They are actually an Asian Carp species and can survive in very little water. Because they are herbivores, they tend to get along well with other community fish. Other fish such as pencil fish, mollies, and smaller Tetras are also included. They are able to perform just as well as single fish and do not require other fish for their health and happiness.
Although the Lionhead Goldfish was originally created in China, it quickly spread around the globe, becoming a popular aquarium fish due to its unique shape and appearance. It is a peaceful and tranquil fish that has graceful movements and a beautiful appearance. This has helped it gain so much popularity. They aren’t known for their aggressive nature even during mating season.
You shouldn’t expect to see Lionhead Goldfish gliding around the aquarium. Due to their lack of a stabilizing dorsal, they are notoriously slow swimmers. They are also known for having poor eyesight which can lead to them being very clumsy.
What is the Cost of Lionhead Goldfish?
Depending on where it is purchased, the price of Lionhead Goldfish may vary greatly. These fish are also more expensive than standard-variety goldfish. A common goldfish can be purchased for as little as a penny or as much money. Lionhead Goldfish are more expensive.
Your Lionhead Goldfish will cost you between $15 and $30. The price does not include the purchase of a tank or all accessories.
The Typical Behavior and Temperament
Lionhead Goldfish are considered a community fish, and they are known for being peaceful. They are able to get along well with other peaceful community fish so they will likely be a good addition to any aquarium that has them.
They can also be the only fish in a particular habitat, and they don’t need a community. They are slow and often considered lazy. They aren’t very mobile and they’re poor swimmers.
Appearance and Varieties
The Lionhead Goldfish is quite unlike common goldfish due to their egg-shaped bodies and lack of a stabilizing dorsal tail. These fish are considered to be fancy goldfish, and they were specifically bred for the “hood” on their heads. This hood mimics the Chinese lion dogs and is a unique ornament found in Chinese architecture.
This hood is known as a “wen” and can grow so large that it completely covers the fish’s head. It can block the fish’s eyes, leading to poor swimming and fish who can’t see clearly. However, the wen isn’t smooth. The wen is a bumpy, rough growth that has a texture similar to a raspberry.
Lionhead Goldfish come in many colors. They can be found in a variety of colors, including red, orange, white, and calico.
This fish is often mistaken for an Oranda goldfish. Although they look very similar, it is easy to distinguish them because Lionhead Goldfish don’t have a dorsal Fin while Orandas do. They share similar egg-shaped bodies which makes them easy to mistake for one another. However, Lionheads are round than Orandas.
How to Care for Lionhead Goldfish
Setup, Tank Conditions, and Habitat
Lionhead Goldfish require very little maintenance and don’t need special tank setups. However, it is important to maintain a healthy aquarium for your Lionhead.
Tank Size
They can grow up to eight inches in length, though they are not very large. These fish require an aquarium of at least 20 gallons, but a larger aquarium is better. These requirements only apply to one Lionhead Goldfish. Each additional fish will require 10 gallons of space. A tank of at least 50 gallons is required if you intend to house a community.
It’s not as easy as just buying a bowl to house a goldfish. The Truth About Goldfish is a best-selling book that will help you set up the perfect setup for your goldfish family.
This book covers everything you need to know about tank size, substrate, ornaments, and plants.
Water Temperature
Lionhead Goldfish don’t require warm water as they aren’t tropical. However, they have very specific temperature requirements. Water should be kept between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. You might also need a water heater.
pH range
The pH range in which the Lionhead can thrive is limited, just like other goldfish. They can tolerate pH levels between 6.0 and 8.0. To keep your Lionhead happy, you won’t allow the tank to drop below pH 6 or 8 levels.
Substrate
Lionheads are not very long-lasting fish. Lionheads can be infected and injured easily so avoid any sharp or abrasive items. These fish are often kept in bare tanks. If you do plan to use a substrate, smooth stones and sand would be the best options.
Plants
With a Lionhead Goldfish, you can have plants in your tank. The plants should not be dangerous to them. They may eat them or dig up the roots. You should avoid decorations such as driftwood or rocks. These abrasive surfaces could cause injury to the sensitive skin of your Lionhead.
Lighting
Lighting is an important consideration if you have plants in your Lionhead aquarium. If you don’t have plants, it won’t really matter. These fish thrive in dimly lit or brightly lit environments.
Filtration
This fish is highly susceptible to infection and illness so it’s important to maintain their environment clean. To ensure that their water is free of contaminants, you will need a powerful filter.
Are Lionhead Goldfish good tank mates?
These fish are great as tank mates with other peaceful community fish. These fish are gentle and non-aggressive, so they will get along with non-aggressive fish.
Lionhead Goldfish are not good at coping with fast-moving fish, which could make them more competitive for food. Lionheads are not good swimmers. They can’t keep up with the pace and will not be able to feed themselves. They won’t be able to share a tank with other goldfish such as common, comet, or shubunkin.
These fish are slow and large so they can’t defend themselves. They shouldn’t be around aggressive fish or those that nip fins. Lionheads are more susceptible to infection than other breeds if they get hurt.
These fish should be kept in a tank that has schooling fish or slow swimmers. Bubble Eye Goldfish, Black Moor, and Celestial Goldfish are great companions. You can also choose minnows or danios. Bottom feeders such as loaches are also possible. Non-fish species such as shrimp and snails can also be good choices.
How to feed your Lionhead Goldfish
Lionheads can eat many different foods because they are omnivores. These fish are known for their fervent appetites so it’s important to limit the amount of food they eat to two meals per day. If you don’t, your fish may overeat and cause health problems.
Certain proteins from live foods will be accepted by these fish. These “meats”, should not make up more than half of your fish’s diet. These are some meats that Lionheads will eat:
- Brine shrimp
- Bloodworms
- Tubifex worms
- Daphnia
These foods will be enjoyed by your Lionhead, but they should also be eating a variety of plant-based foods. Your Lionhead should eat at least 50% of their diet consisting of food like:
- Vegetables
- Plant matter
- Fish flakes
- Goldfish-specific food pellets
These fish can be slow and clumsy and sometimes don’t see well. They are unable to compete for food and they may not require extra assistance when it comes time to eat.
How to Keep Your Lionhead Goldfish Healthy
Lionhead Goldfish is not a tough fish species. They are susceptible to many issues, and their facial growths can pose a risk. They are susceptible to infection and can easily be hurt. Poor water quality and tank hygiene can lead to death for Lionhead Goldfish. You’ll need a well-maintained aquarium.
These fish can develop bacterial infections like fish tuberculosis or fin rot. If not treated, these infections can quickly become fatal. Lionheads can also be affected by fungal infections such as cotton wool fungus. This can cause permanent damage to your fish.
However, infections are not the only danger. Parasites and protozoa such as flatworms and anchor worms, fish lice, Ich, Chilodenella, and Costia are also possible.
Breeding
A Lionhead Goldfish can lay approximately 10,000 eggs per year. Although they can be raised in small groups of five to seven fish, they are also capable of reproducing in large numbers. You will need to replicate natural conditions in order to induce mating.
First, healthy fish are essential. You may even wish to treat them for parasites. To increase interest in spawning and to encourage mating, separate the males from the females, then add them together to your breeding tank.
You will need to gradually reduce the temperature of your tank until it reaches 60 degrees Fahrenheit. This will allow them to begin spawning. The water should then be gradually warmed up until it reaches 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Do not be alarmed if the males chase the females around your tank. The aggression is non-aggressive and can last for several days. Meanwhile, the colors of your fish become more intense. Soon, they’ll mate. The parents will soon start eating the eggs so it is important to quickly separate them. In less than one week, the eggs will be ready to hatch.
Are Lionhead Goldfish suitable for your aquarium?
Lionhead Goldfish are, without doubt, unique, fascinating, and, in their own ways, very attractive fish. Are they the right fish for your aquarium? It all depends on what you have in your aquarium right now. Lionhead Goldfish will not do well in a tank with aggressive fish or fast-moving fish.
If you have peaceful fish in your colony, a Lionhead may be a good fit. You should avoid placing any sharp or abrasive decorations inside the tank. This could cause injury. These fish aren’t very tough and can easily be damaged by almost anything. They will do well if they are surrounded by slow-swimming fish that don’t compete for food.
Are Lionhead goldfish uncommon?
Lionheads have egg-shaped bodies and short, double tail and anal fins that gradually grow into a floating, fan shape, similar to Fantail goldfish. Long-finned Lionheads are sometimes found, though they are extremely rare.
Are LionHead goldfish lonely?
You may be surprised to learn that they do not. At least, not that we know of. Based on what we know about goldfish, it is highly unlikely that they experience loneliness.
Is it cruel to keep just one goldfish?
To answer your question, goldfish can live on their own. Many goldfish, in fact, can live long, healthy, and happy lives on their own. However, keep in mind that not all goldfish are happy on their own, and some would prefer the company of other tank mates.
How can you tell if your goldfish is content?
When your fish swim actively throughout the tank, rather than just hanging out or laying at the bottom, floating near the top, or hiding behind plants and ornaments, they are happy and healthy. Eat on a regular basis and swim to the surface quickly during feeding times.
How can I tell if my goldfish is happy?
Unusual Swimming: When fish are stressed, they frequently exhibit unusual swimming patterns. Your fish may be stressed if he is swimming frantically without going anywhere, crashing at the bottom of his tank, rubbing himself on gravel or rocks, or locking his fins at his side.
Do goldfish know who their owners are?
Goldfish have demonstrated the ability to learn and process information. Pet goldfish can tell the difference between humans and frequently recognize the person who feeds them on a regular basis.
Can goldfish hear what you’re saying?
You might be surprised to learn that the answer is actually yes! Even though goldfish do not have ears, they can hear sounds!
How do you interact with goldfish?
You can interact with your goldfish by teaching them to swim through hoops and push around balls. You can feed them with your fingers as well. Playing with your goldfish is an entertaining and enjoyable way to enjoy having a pet fish.
Are goldfish happier when kept in pairs?
Goldfish (Carassius auratus) are social animals that interact with one another on a regular basis when kept in groups. It is recommended to keep at least two goldfish in an aquarium for companionship and activity. Depression and lethargy can occur in solitary fish.
How big can a Lionhead goldfish get?
Lionheads can reach a length of 6 inches (15 cm) (including finnage) and have metallic, nacreous, or matte scales. They come in the colors orange, red, white, red-and-white, blue, black, black-and-white, black-and-red, natural, and chocolate.