We will tell you some of the species of fish that we can have in our aquariums. We will start by talking about fantail or fan tail.
Main characteristics of the Fantail
El fantail or fan tail It is one of the best known varieties of Goldfish (Carassius auratus), known for their robust appearance and its elegance in ornamental aquariums. This species has its origins in China and Japan, being one of the oldest varieties of goldfish, dating back to the 16th century.
Visually, the fantail is characterized by its short and rounded body, with a shape reminiscent of an egg. The most notable feature is its double caudal fin, which should have a symmetrical 'V' shape and a moderate length. This fish also has two anal, pectoral and abdominal fins, all of them equally symmetrical, which denotes a quality specimen.
Their swimming ability is slower compared to other varieties. de peces due to the weight and size of their fins. For this reason, it is recommended that they live with species with a similar rhythm to avoid feeding problems or stress.
Available colors and varieties
Fantails come in a wide range of colors including orange, red, white, yellow, black, calico (color combination) and bicolor. Although orange is the most common color, specimens of other colors are often highly valued by aquarists due to their uniqueness.
Among the best-known subvarieties derived from fantail we find the fringetails, ribbontails, veiltails y ryukins. Each of them has specific characteristics, although they share many similarities in terms of fins and body shape:
- Fringetail or Fringe Tail: Similar to the standard fantail, but with fins that appear to have longer fringes and a robust, ovoid body.
- Ribbontail: It is distinguished by its longer, thinner, ribbon-shaped caudal fins.
- Veiltail: Its main characteristic is an extremely long tail, which gives it a majestic appearance, although less functional for swimming.
- Ryukin: Recognizable by its prominent dorsal hump, which visibly differentiates it from other varieties.
Fantail Care in Aquariums
When keeping a fantail in your aquarium, it is important to keep the following in mind: recommendations:
Aquarium dimensions
These fish require a spacious aquarium for comfortable swimming. A minimum of 100 cm is recommended. 60 liters per fish, although it would be ideal to have larger aquariums, especially if you are going to include other species or several specimens of fantail. In addition, it is essential to ensure a good water oxygenation, since they are fish that consume large amounts of oxygen.
Water temperature and parameters
The fantail is a cold water fish, although it can withstand a wider range of temperatures. ideal values for its maintenance are:
- Temperature: Between 10 and 26 ºC, although it is preferable to keep them within a range of 18-22 ºC.
- pH: 6.5-7.5, with medium hardness.
- Water changes: Weekly, with adequate siphoning to prevent waste build-up.
Aquarium decoration
To prevent your delicate fins suffer damage, it is advisable to decorate the aquarium with natural plants and gravel with rounded edges. Plants such as Java ferns, anubias and cryptocorynes are an excellent choice, as they are hardy and are not usually eaten by goldfish.
Meals
The fantail is a omnivorous fish, so you need a balanced diet between plant foods y animal proteins. It is recommended to offer them quality commercial foods, such as pre-hydrated granules, and make combinations with mosquito larvae, brine shrimp and vegetables such as boiled spinach. A single serving a day is enough to avoid problems. digestive, such as swim bladder disorders.
Reproduction in captivity
The reproductive process of the fantail is similar to that of other goldfish. Males develop reproductive tubers (small white spots) on the fins and opercula during sexual maturity. Females have a swollen abdomen.
Reproduction occurs when temperatures exceed 20ºC. The male chases the female until she releases her eggs, which are fertilised by him in the water. It is important to separate the eggs from the parents to prevent them from being eaten.
Behavior and compatibility
The fantail is a very fish social and calm, ideal for living with other species of goldfish or fish with a similar rhythm. It is not advisable to keep them with faster or more aggressive fish, as they could become stressed or poorly fed. They tend to swim around the aquarium, spending much of their time searching for food in the substrate.
The fantail remains a favorite among ornamental fish lovers for its beauty, ease of care, and ability to adapt to different environments. Be sure to follow all the care recommendations to ensure a healthy and long life for these fascinating fish.