Introduction
The Water Bubble-Eye Goldfish is a highly distinctive and ornamental variety in the goldfish family, admired worldwide for its eye-catching bubble sacs. These translucent eye bubbles sway as the fish swims, giving it unique charm and earning it a special place among goldfish enthusiasts.
Morphological Characteristics
Body and Bubble Sacs
The Water Bubble-Eye Goldfish has a round, compact body typically 8–12 cm in length. Its most prominent feature is the pair of fluid-filled, translucent bubbles located under its eyes. These sacs vary in size, with some large enough to reach the mouth. The surface of the bubbles lacks scales, making them extremely fragile.
Fins and Colors
Most Water Bubble-Eye Goldfish do not have a dorsal fin, giving them smoother body lines. The caudal fin is broad, usually four-lobed, and resembles butterfly wings when spread, contributing to their elegant swimming posture. They come in a range of vibrant colors including red, white, black, and multicolored, and their shiny scales add to their visual appeal.
Origin and Development
This variety originated in China and was developed through long-term artificial selection. Records of goldfish with bubble-like eyes can be traced back to the Ming Dynasty. Fish breeders selectively bred goldfish with eye mutations to stabilize the bubble-eye trait. By the late 19th century, Water Bubble-Eye Goldfish had spread to Japan, Europe, and other regions, where their unique appearance gained international popularity.
Living Habits
Water Bubble-Eye Goldfish thrive in water temperatures between 18–25°C (64–77°F), but they can tolerate 10–30°C. Their movement is slow and they are gentle in nature, making them unsuitable for tanks with fast or aggressive fish.
Diet
These goldfish are omnivores and will accept both animal and plant-based foods. Common foods include water fleas, bloodworms, goldfish pellet and flake feeds, and cooked vegetables like spinach. Due to impaired vision caused by the bubbles, food should be placed near them to ensure proper feeding.
Key Points for Home Breeding
1. Aquarium Size and Layout
Use a large, deep tank to provide ample swimming space. Avoid sharp decorations like jagged rocks or rough driftwood to protect the delicate eye bubbles. Use smooth stones and soft aquatic plants like Anubias or Hornwort for decoration and shelter.
2. Filtration System
Choose a gentle filtration system to avoid strong currents that could damage the bubbles. Moderate internal or sponge filters are recommended. Regular filter cleaning helps maintain water quality.
3. Water Quality
Maintain slightly alkaline and moderately hard water. Weekly water changes of 25–33% are essential. Always age new water for at least 24 hours to remove chlorine. Ideal pH levels are between 7.0 and 8.0.
Home Treatment for Damaged Bubbles
If a bubble gets damaged, timely and proper care is crucial to prevent infections. Follow these steps to treat injuries at home:
1. Isolation
Immediately move the injured goldfish to a separate isolation tank to prevent further contact injuries or exposure to impurities in the main tank.
2. Disinfection
Prepare a light saltwater bath (3%–5% concentration) and soak the fish for 10–15 minutes once a day. Alternatively, use a diluted potassium permanganate solution (light pink color) for 5–10 minutes. Always control concentration and duration to avoid harming the fish.
3. Water Management
Keep the isolation tank clean. Replace one-third of the water daily with aged, dechlorinated water. Maintain a stable water temperature to aid healing.
4. Monitoring and Medication
Observe the wound closely. If redness, swelling, or ulcers appear, add a small amount of oxytetracycline or yellow powder according to instructions. Reduce feeding during recovery to maintain clean water. With proper care, the bubble may heal in about a week, after which the goldfish can return to the main tank.
Conclusion
The Water Bubble-Eye Goldfish is a fascinating and delicate ornamental fish that brings beauty and uniqueness to any aquarium. By understanding their care needs, tank setup, and how to handle bubble injuries, fishkeepers can ensure a healthy and fulfilling life for this special goldfish variety.
