Black Moor Goldfish

Black Moor goldfish are distinct with their coal-black color, protruding eyes, and graceful fins. They can thrive in large tanks or garden ponds, even spawning if given proper care and a good diet. While often recommended for beginners, they require attention due to their delicate nature. Here's a guide on caring for these unique fish:

Origins: Black Moor goldfish, originating from China, have a rich history dating back to the Tang Dynasty. They were selectively bred for their unique features, resulting in the characteristic protruding eyes and dark, velvety scales.

Identification:

• Black Moors have round bodies, long fins, and large, protruding eyes.
• They can grow up to 7-8 inches in length.
• Initially bronze as juveniles, they turn deep black as they mature.

Tank Setup:

• A tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended for proper growth.
• Choose a rectangular tank with open swimming space, as Black Moors are poor swimmers.
• Avoid goldfish bowls, providing 1 gallon of water per 1 inch of fish.
• Water parameters: 65-72°F, 5-19 dGH hardness, pH 6.0-8.0.

Care Tips:

• Use a powerful filtration system as goldfish produce a lot of waste.
• Perform a 30% water change weekly and maintain clean tank conditions.
• Decorate with smooth items, considering the fish's poor eyesight.
• Include hardy plants like Marimo Moss Balls, Java Fern, or Anubias.
• Provide suitable lighting to mimic day/night cycles.

Feeding:

• Offer a balanced diet with fish flakes, pellets, and meaty protein like brine shrimp.
• Prevent constipation by including fresh veggies in their diet.

Tank Mates:

• Keep Black Moors with other Fancy goldfish varieties.
• Avoid fin-nipping species and tiny fish that could be eaten.

Health Concerns:

• Black Moors are susceptible to eye injuries and cloudy eye.
• Swim Bladder Disease can affect their buoyancy.
• White Spot Disease (Ich) may occur but can be treated promptly.
• Bacterial infections and flukes can be managed with fish medications.

Breeding:

• Set up a spawning tank with rocks or spawning mops.
• Gradually increase the tank temperature for breeding conditions.
• Black Moors deposit up to 10,000 eggs; remove parent fish after fertilization.
• Feed fry specialized food until they can eat crushed flakes and baby Artemis.