Ah, the sailfish goldfish! These magnificent aquatic creatures have always fascinated aquarium enthusiasts. As a pet shop floor manager for over 10 years, I can tell you that their fan-shaped tails never cease to amaze young and old alike. But before you fall for these beautiful swimmers, it's vital to understand their needs and their cost. Let me guide you through this fascinating world!
Sailfish characteristics and requirements
Le goldfish sail tailalso known as FanTail or Chinese sailfish, is a variety of goldfish distinguished by its characteristic fan-shaped, long, split tail. Its bulbous, stocky body and high dorsal fin make it a true aquatic jewel. As an adult, it can reach an impressive size of between 12 and 30 cm.
Contrary to what you might think, these fish are not loners. They love company and it is highly recommended to have at least three for their well-being. I remember one customer who had bought a single sailfish and came back a few days later, worried to see it so inactive. After adding two companions, the transformation was amazing!
Ideal habitat
So that your goldfish sail tail to flourish, here are the essential conditions:
- Water temperature: 18-22°C (they can tolerate temperatures between 1 and 30°C)
- Minimum volume: 35-50L per adult fish
- Environment : aquarium or outdoor pool
Don't forget that these fish are cold-water fish, unlike their cousins the mollys, who prefer hot water. A good filter and regular water changes are essential for maintaining a good quality of life.
Power supply and maintenance
Our fan-tailed friends are omnivores with a tendency to graze. Their ideal menu consists of pellets, flakes, vegetables and a few worms for fun. Believe me, I've seen fan-tailed goldfish feasting on small pieces of courgette as if it were a royal feast!
As far as maintenance is concerned, plan to change part of the water every fortnight and clean the filter monthly. With the right care, your fish could live for 10 years or more. That's almost as long as the lifespan of some fish. rare koi carp !
Prices and costs associated with the purchase of a sail tail goldfish
Now, let's talk big money! The price of a sailfish can vary considerably depending on its quality and rarity. Here's a summary table to give you an idea:
| Type of fish | Average price |
|---|---|
| Classic goldfish | 2-3€ |
| Sailfish red tail | Up to €10 |
But the cost of the fish is just the tip of the iceberg! You'll also need to plan for the equipment you'll need to welcome your new aquatic companion.
Cost of equipment
A 100 litre aquarium, the ideal size for 2-3 sailfish, will cost you between €100 and €150 new. If you're a bit of a do-it-yourselfer and like a bargain (like me!), you can find second-hand aquariums for less. I've already seen complete aquariums in perfect condition for less than €80 on classified ad sites.
Don't forget to add the cost of accessories: filter, heating, lighting, decoration, etc. Expect to pay around €50 more for basic quality equipment.
Maintenance costs
Maintaining an aquarium is not very expensive, but you should factor it into your budget. Here's an estimate of monthly expenses:
- Food: €5-10
- Cleaning products: €3-5
- Electricity: €5-10 (depending on aquarium size and equipment)
All in all, you should budget around €20 a month for the upkeep of your aquarium. That's the price you pay for beautiful, healthy fish!
Advice on choosing your Sailfish
After all these practical considerations, let's move on to the most exciting part: choosing your fish! Here are a few tips to ensure you leave with a healthy specimen:
Observing behaviour
A healthy sailfish needs to be lively and curious. Beware of fish that remain motionless at the bottom of the tank or swim erratically. I have a little anecdote on this subject: one day, a customer insisted on buying a fish that was swimming strangely, convinced that it just had "character". Fortunately, I managed to persuade him to choose another one, as this one was probably sick.
Physical examination
Look carefully at the appearance of the fish. Scales should be smooth and shiny, with no suspicious spots or marks. The fins should be intact, with no tears or filaments. And of course, the famous fan-shaped tail should be well developed and symmetrical.
Alternative varieties
If the price of sailfish seems a little high, there are other varieties that are just as charming and often less expensive. These include :
- The Pearlscale
- L'Oranda
- The Ryukin
- The telescope
- The Bubble
- Le Celeste
- Le Ranchu
- The Pompon
Each of these varieties has its own particularities and charm. Don't hesitate to ask about their specific needs before making your choice.
At the end of the day, whether you opt for a magnificent sailfish or another variety, the important thing is to provide it with the best possible living conditions. With the right care, these little swimmers will become real members of your aquatic family!
Sources :
English 
French