Le red comet fish is a real aquatic jewel that brightens up our ponds and aquariums. As a pet shop floor manager for over 10 years, I've had the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close. Let me share with you everything you need to know about this captivating fish, from its origin to its care and unique characteristics.
Origins and characteristics of the red comet fish
A colourful story
Le red comet fishCarassius auratus, scientifically known as Carassius auratus, is a variety of goldfish native to China. However, it was in the United States in the 1880s that this species was developed into the fish we know today. I've always been fascinated by the history of these fish, which have crossed the oceans to delight our ponds!
A remarkable physique
What sets the red comet apart is its unique appearance. With its slender, elongated body, it looks like a real aquatic comet. Its long, straight, V-shaped tail gives it a particular elegance when swimming. In terms of colour, it generally has a white background dotted with bright red markings. The Sarasa variety, on the other hand, proudly sports an eye-catching red and white coat!
Size and longevity
Don't be fooled by its small size in pet shops! Red comets can grow to 25 to 30 cm when they reach adulthood. That's one of the first things I tell my customers: you need to allow plenty of space for these great swimmers of the future. In terms of longevity, these fish can live between 7 and 14 years, or even more than 20 years in the right conditions. I even had a customer tell me that his comet had celebrated its 25th birthday!
Habitat and care of comet sarasa
A suitable environment
The red comet thrives just as well in a garden pond as in a large cold-water aquarium. However, be careful with the size: allow at least 100 litres per fish. These tireless swimmers love open spaces! The ideal temperature is between 15 and 24°C, but they can tolerate variations from 0 to 30°C. The pH of the water should be between 6 and 8.5.
For an optimal habitat, don't hesitate to add plants and shelters. Not only does this reproduce their natural environment, it also provides them with areas to rest and play. And believe me, these little pranksters love to hide behind plants!
Maintenance and filtration
Although robust and hard-wearing, red comets still require some care. A good filtration and oxygenation system is essential for maintaining good water quality. I always recommend that my customers carry out regular water changes, around 10 to 20% per week. It's a small gesture that makes all the difference to the health of your fish!
If you opt for an outdoor pond, you should know that these little warriors can survive the winter, provided the pond is deep enough (at least 1 metre). I've seen red comets survive harsh winters, much to the delight of their owners, who reunited with them in the spring!
Balanced diet
The red comet is an omnivorous fish, which makes it easy to eat. Here is a summary of its diet:
| Type of food | Frequency | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Special goldfish food | Daily | Small quantities |
| Plant supplements | 2-3 times a week | Moderate |
| Bloodworms or artemia (occasionally) | Once a week | Small quantities |
Don't forget to vary the pleasures! A well-fed fish is a happy, healthy fish.
Social life and behaviour
A sociable and active fish
The red comet is a gregarious fish that loves company. In the wild, they live in groups, and the same goes for our aquariums. I always recommend having at least 5 of them to reproduce their natural behaviour. It's a real pleasure to see them swimming together, racing or playing hide-and-seek among the plants!
These fish are known for being active and lively. Fast swimmers, they bring life to your aquarium or pond. Despite their boundless energy, they remain peaceful and generally get on well with their fellow fish.
Harmonious cohabitation
If you want to create a community aquarium, the red comet is an excellent choice. It cohabits perfectly with :
- Other varieties of goldfish
- The koi carp
- Non-aggressive cold-water fish
However, be careful not to mix it with species that are too small for it to mistake for food!
Reproduction and breeding
It is possible to breed red comets in groups, but specific conditions are required. If you are tempted by the adventure of breeding, make sure you have a pond or aquarium large enough to accommodate the future fry. It's an exciting experience, but one that requires patience and attention!
Choosing the perfect fish
When you decide to adopt a red comet, there are several options open to you. They can generally be found in pet shops in sizes ranging from 4-7 cm for the youngest, up to 18-22 cm for adults. My advice? Go for medium-sized fish, around 10-12 cm. They're strong enough to adapt to their new environment, but still have plenty of room to grow.
Don't forget to check the health of the fish before you buy. A healthy comet should be lively, with intact fins and shiny scales. Avoid individuals that appear lethargic or show signs of illness.
As a passionate aquarist, I can only encourage you to embark on the adventure of the red comet fish. These little aquatic creatures bring so much joy and life to our interiors and exteriors. With the right care and a little attention, they'll quickly become the stars of your pond or aquarium. So, are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of red comets?
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