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How to tell if your goldfish tank is too small for their health?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish

How do I know when my goldfish tank is to small for the goldfish

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on September 4th, 2018

Ideally, one goldfish should have 20 gallons of water. The reason being that goldfish produce a larger than average bio-load (wastes) than other fish. One fish can quickly overwhelm a small tank and filter. If you have a smaller tank, use a home test kit to monitor ammonia, nitrites and nitrates. When ammonia or nitrites begin to rise, it is time to perform a partial water change.

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