Black Moor Goldfish Care: Complete Guide for Beginners

Venturing into the Black Moor Goldfish care? This step-by-step guide will equip you with everything you need to keep your finny friend healthy. Dive in to learn essential tips on supplies, diet, breeding, and more.

by Fabian

Updated: July 3, 2023 / 11 mins read

Fabian is the dedicated Chief Editor at Aquarium Nexus. From a young age, he was captivated by the vibrant world of aquatic life, leading him to accumulate over 20 years of experience in keeping and breeding various fish species. The fulfillment derived from the aquarium hobby has remained a constant throughout Fabian's life. As an expert in the field, he finds great pleasure in imparting his extensive knowledge and personal experiences to both seasoned aficionados and budding enthusiasts.

Black Moor Goldfish Species Profile and Identification

The Black Moor Goldfish, well-known by a plethora of common names such as dragon eye goldfish, black telescope goldfish, black peony goldfish, and black demekin, makes a captivating addition to any aquarium. This distinctive breed of goldfish is often recognized for its solid black color, contrasted occasionally with patches of gold or orange.

• Size: Mature Black Moor Goldfish are relatively large, usually reaching lengths of 6–8 inches (15–20 cm). This noticeable size contributes to their presence and appeal in the tank.
• Color: A Black Moor Goldfish’s color is typically solid black, a telltale sign of this breed. Occasionally, you may encounter individuals with patches of gold or orange, adding a touch of uniqueness to their appearance.
• Life expectancy: With the right care and tank conditions, a Black Moor Goldfish has a life expectancy of 10–15 years, giving you ample time to bond and enjoy its company.

Furthermore, a standout feature of the Black Moor Goldfish is its large, protruding eyes, which have earned it the nickname “telescope” or “dragon eye” goldfish. These rather bulging eyes, coupled with their dark, velvety color and elegant flowing fins give the Black Moor an irresistible charm.

To correctly identify a Black Moor Goldfish, look for the mentioned attributes: a solid black (sometimes speckled) color, unique protruding eyes, and impressive size. These characteristics make the Black Moor Goldfish such a beloved species among fish enthusiasts and a perfect addition to your tank.

Black Moor Goldfish Supplies

When setting up your Black Moor Goldfish tank, there are several essential supplies you need. These supplies are crucial for the wellbeing and survival of your spectacular aquatic friend.

• Aquarium: Firstly, the Black Moor goldfish requires a roomy tank. Despite their small size, they need ample space to roam. Ideal tank size is at a minimum, 20 gallons (about 75 liters), for a single fish.
• Filtration System: A filter is another non-negotiable. Black Moor goldfish, like other goldfish types, produce a significant amount of waste. Equipping your tank with a filter helps maintain cleanliness and oxygen levels in the water. Handling waste promptly aids overall fish health.
• Substrate: In terms of substrate, sand is a good option. Goldfish like to forage at the bottom of the tank, and a soft substrate like sand stops them from injuring.
• Decorations: Add hardy plants and decorations. Black Moors enjoy swimming around and through objects. However, make sure all decorations have smooth surfaces so they can’t damage their delicate fins and eyes.
• Lighting: Lighting isn’t as paramount for Black Moors as for some other species since their vision isn’t sharp. Gentle, subdued lighting will do just fine.
• Heater:
  Despite their hardiness in various temperatures, a heater is advisable if your room temperature is prone to drastic changes. A stable temperature is a key aspect to their well-being.
• Air Pump: An air pump is a valuable addition to keep oxygen levels optimal. Goldfish are heavy oxygen consumers, so an aerated tank is needed.

Black Moor Goldfish Tank Setup

Starting off, the minimum tank size for your Black Moor Goldfish should be not less than 20 gallons (75 liters). It’s vital to remember that these fish are active swimmers, and the larger the tank, the happier your goldfish.

It’s best to opt for a long, shallow tank instead of a tall, narrow one since these fish are primarily bottom dwellers. Layer the bottom of the tank with substrate such as gravel but avoid sharp or jagged rocks that might hurt your pet.

Next, pay attention to the decor items. Go for rounded or smooth rocks and soft-leaved plants, ensuring there are no sharp objects that could injure your fish’s eyes.

Here is your checklist for a basic Black Moor Goldfish tank setup:

• A minimum of a 20-gallon tank. Bigger is better.
• Substrate: Soft, small or medium-sized gravel (ensure it’s not sharp).
• Decor: Soft-leafed plants, smooth rocks or sculptures.
• Empty spaces for them to swim freely.

Consider providing the correct environment for your goldfish, where the temperature should range from 50-75°F (10-24°C). You may require a heater and thermometer to maintain this temperature.

Lastly, install a robust filtration system. Black Moor Goldfish produce a high amount of waste and need good water conditions to stay healthy. That’s why strong filtration is so crucial, as it helps keep the tank clean and your fish happy.

Black Moor Goldfish Water Requirements

Black Moor Goldfish prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH range. This means your fish tank’s pH should ideally be between 6.5 and 7.5.

• Test pH levels regularly. Keeping a consistent pH is crucial. The wrong pH can stress your fish.

Black Moors thrive in moderately hard water, with a hardness range of 5–15 dGH. It’s important to test your water and adjust if necessary.

Water temperature is paramount. The ideal range for these fish is between 50–75°F (10–24°C). Try to:

• Keep temperatures consistent. Large fluctuations should be avoided.
• Use a water heater if the water is too cold.

Lastly, ensure your fish tank holds at least 20 gallons (75 liters) of water. This allows plenty of space for swimming and keeps the water clean.

• Larger tanks are always better. They dilute toxins more effectively.

Adhering to these water requirement guidelines will help keep your Black Moor Goldfish healthy and comfortable.

Black Moor Goldfish Diet and Feeding

Feeding a Black Moor goldfish properly plays a crucial role in its growth and well-being. As an omnivore, this species consumes both plant materials and small animals. Let’s look at some core points to remember when designing your goldfish’s diet.

Black Moor goldfish enjoy a varied diet. Your fish will appreciate a feed composed of dry fish flakes, pellets, live foods, and even fresh vegetables. Feeding them a diverse diet maintains their health by providing essential nutrients.

Feed in small yet frequent portions. Overfeeding poses serious threats to their health, such as obesity and swim bladder issues. A good rule of thumb is to give them as much food as they can consume in 2-3 minutes, twice a day.

Choose the right food size. The size of the food should suit their size and mouth shape. Usually, we opt for small, soft pellets and cut-up veggies.

Incorporate live and frozen foods. Black Moor goldfish cherish brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. Occasionally serving these will help maintain their proper digestion and appetite.

Remember to soak dry foods. Dry foods expand when they come into contact with water. Soaking them beforehand can prevent digestive discomfort for your fish.

Give them a ‘fast’ day. Once a week, avoid feeding your goldfish. This break aids in clearing their digestive system and avoiding overfeeding.

Considering these tips when planning your Black Moor’s diet will set you on the path for success, ensuring your pet has a nutrient-filled menu for a healthy and happy life.

Black Moor Goldfish Care Schedule

The care schedule for Black Moor Goldfish involves daily, weekly, and monthly activities.

Daily Activities

• Feeding: Serve your fish variety of dietary offerings, preferably high-quality sinking pellets or flakes, 2-3 times per day.
• Observation: Monitor your fish on a daily basis for any noticeable changes in behavior or physical appearance that could indicate health issues.

Weekly Activities

• Water Testing: Ensuring water quality is crucial for the health of your fish. Aim to conduct water tests at least once a week. You’re targeting the acceptable pH levels of 6.5-7.5, temperature around 50-75°F (10-24°C) and hardness between 5-15 dGH.
• Tank Cleaning: A partial water change (20-25% of the tank volume) every week aids in maintaining appropriate water conditions.

Monthly Activities

• Full Tank Cleaning: Focus on a more comprehensive cleaning once every month. This includes cleaning the tank walls, rinsing the gravel, and any ornaments or plants.

Remember, consistent care is key for maintaining a healthy environment for your Black Moor Goldfish. Doing so will optimize their life expectancy of 10-15 years.

Black Moor Goldfish Health Problems

Black Moor Goldfish are known for their overall resilience, but they are not without their health challenges. Key to preventing these is regular inspection and vigilance. You should be on the lookout for fluctuations in behavior and physical changes that may indicate a problem.

Common health issues revolve around vision and swimming balance. Black Moor Goldfish, with their distinctive protruding eyes, are susceptible to eye injuries or infections. To help prevent these, ensure your tank does not have any sharp objects and gets cleaned regularly.

Due to their deep body shape, they’re prone to swim bladder disease, which can affect their ability to swim properly. Overfeeding or feeding rapidly sinking food can exacerbate this issue. A diet high in fiber, like peas, is recommended to counterbalance this.

In addition to vision and swimming balance issues, these goldfish can also suffer from common goldfish diseases like ichthyophthirius multifiliis (ich or white spot disease). This is a highly contagious disease that is typically caused by poor water quality or stress. Upkeeping water quality and avoiding sudden changes in temperature can prevent this.

Finally, remember that prevention is always better than cure. Regular tank maintenance, water quality checks, and a balanced diet play a crucial role in keeping your Goldfish healthy. If your goldfish does fall ill, it’s best to seek advice from an aquatic vet.

Black Moor Goldfish Tank Mates

When considering tank mates for your Black Moor Goldfish, it’s crucial to keep in mind their temperament and physical abilities. Black Moor Goldfish are known as peaceful swimmers and have poor eyesight, impacting their scavenging efficiency. Thus, picking their tank companions should be done with care.

• Avoid Fast Swimmers. Fast and active fish might outcompete your Black Moor for food and cause undue stress. Avoid fish like Zebra Danios.
• Stay Clear of Fin Nippers. Fin nippers can damage your Black Moor’s beautiful long fins. Steer clear of fish like Tiger Barbs.
• Consider Other Goldfish. Other varieties of Goldfish, especially those with similar swimming speed and temperament, can make good companions. That includes Ryukins and Fantails.
• Consider Bottom Dwellers. Bottom dwellers, like Corydoras Catfish, can also be a good choice, as they dwell in different zones in the tank and are peaceable in nature.

Choosing appropriate tank mates is a key factor in your Black Moor’s health and happiness. Making the right choices can ensure a peaceful and enriching environment for your aquatic pet.

Black Moor Goldfish Breeding

Breeding these wonderful creatures can be rewarding yet demanding. Black Moor Goldfish are egg layers, which means they produce eggs that stick to plants and surfaces rather than giving live birth. The female can lay several hundreds of eggs at a time!

The spawning season occurs in spring. You’ll notice mature males displaying white tubercles on their gills, a sure sign they’re ready to mate. Females will look broader due to egg-carrying. Here’s a simple step-by-step breeding guide:

• Step 1: Separate males and females when they mature and show breeding signs.
• Step 2: Pair them in a specific breeding tank — remember the minimum tank size of 20 gallons.
• Step 3: Feed them nutritious diet — remember they’re omnivores.
• Step 4: Maintain the water temperature between 50–75°F (10–24°C) to encourage breeding.
• Step 5: Add plants or specific breeding mops for the eggs to stick.
• Step 6: Once eggs are laid, remove adult fish to prevent eating them.

Expect young goldfish to hatch within 4 to 7 days. They’ll require smaller food particles and more care.

Successful black moor breeding requires timing, proper nutrition, and careful handling. Go into this only if you’re ready for the responsibility, it’s worth it for the delightful new additions to your aquarium family.

Conclusion

Taking care of a Black Moor Goldfish might seem challenging at first, but with the correct care guide, it becomes quite manageable. Your efforts will be rewarded with a lively, colorful pet who can provide many years of companionship. Feel free to leave a comment below sharing your goldfish experiences or any questions you might have.