Hi
I have a goldfish that has been on its own for a while (since its friend died). He sits at the bottom of the tank most days looking depressed. I have checked him for illness but he seems fine. I have the opportunity to put him into next doors pond. Do you think this is a good idea or will it harm him as he has been in a tank his whole life. He is about 8 or 9 years old.

Any advice helpful Thanks.

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what sort of goldfish is he? a standard goldfish (such as a comet or shubunkin) would be far happier in a pond, as they really need th space. if ist is a fancy goldfish such as an oranda or moor, then it would never survive the english winter and should remain inside.

if it is a standard, then its best putting it in the pond. its the correct time of year for it, and it would be far better for the fish. there shouldnt be any complications with it either.
if its a fancy goldfish, then keep it inside, but you could always add another fish to it, depending on the size of the tank. goldfish are a social animal, so adding more would help the fish, but obviously they need a lot of space, so ho manyoul depend on the tank size available

He is a standard goldfish. Thanks for the advice. I do feel sorry for him so will try adding him tomorrow.

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As Fishyfins has pointed out, a common goldfish would be better off in a spacious pond, rather than the confines of an indoor aquarium. The same can't really be said for fancy goldfish (i.e orandas, moors, fantails), which are far more delicate, slow moving and vulnerable to predators such as cats, mink and herons.

Being a member of the carp family (Cyprinidae), goldfish are a naturally gregarious species and as such, fair better when kept in small groups. However, a very large tank (or a pond) is required to house multiple fish together.

Now is the right time for adding fish to a pond, with the water temperature being higher. The fish will have a few months to acclimatize to the outdoor environment.

Just googled my fish and he is a Comet. I was a bit worried about adding him to their pond as I wondered about him being bullied etc. I used to keep chickens and they do that sort of thing. However, I don't like the thought of him being lonely either and I am sure he would prefer to be with others of his kind.
Thanks again for the advice.

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Just read that post and it makes me sound like a right softy

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Just to let you know I put him in the pond today and he is having a ball! I am so glad I did it. Thanks again for the advice guys.

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