Gold Fish

The gold fish is a domesticated carp primarily raised as aquarium fish. Contrary to its name, a gold fish appears in a wide variety of colors. The fish can be raised indoors in a fish tank or outdoors in a pond, although some varieties are better suited indoors during harsh weather.http://www.petgoldfish.net/

Carassius auratus is the scientific name of the gold fish. The fish feeds on insect larvae, crustaceans, molluscs and some plants. It can live up to 5 to 10 years. In the wild, the gold fish can be found in plant-rich lakes and pools from China to Eastern Europe. The fish breeds in the summertime. Many males race and compete to fertilize one female. The females then spawn over plants, and it takes about a week for the eggs to hatch.http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/animals/pets/goldfish.shtml

The gold fish is often confused with the koi carp because the two species are similar in appearance. However, although they are both members of the carp family, they can easily be distinguished from each other. In general, barbels can be found around the mouth of a koi, but not in the mouth of a gold fish.http://www.petgoldfish.net/

All gold fish varieties are descended from the Crucian carp. The exact details of the domestication of the gold fish are not known. However, ancient Chinese literature and art shows that the ornamental fish has been raised in Chinese dwellings since 800 CE. By the 17th century, gold fish have become common pets in many Asian countries. European traders brought the fish to Europe.http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/animals/pets/goldfish.shtml