Lifespan of Telescope Eye Goldfish

Your little bugged-eyed friend may look like he has the ability to see every object in his path, but the telescope eye goldfish actually has less-than-average vision. A tank with a minimal amount of decorative items is ideal for this unique fish that has the tendency to swim into objects. When you choose items for your tank, selecting those that do not have points or sharp edges will help to protect your pet's delicate eyes. A spacious environment is also helpful for the telescope eye goldfish, because he is not the best swimmer. A tank that is 10 gallons or larger, especially if you have multiple fish, is your best option.

This freshwater-dweller also enjoys the company of other fish with similar passive temperaments. However, more fish means more tank care and cleaning, which reduces the risk of bacteria and disease. A filtration system and water kept between 65 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 26 degrees Celsius) with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 will also help to add years to your goldfish's life.

A telescope goldfish that eats a diet rich in nutrients will be likely to live a long time. However, remember that this little guy has trouble seeing, and might have trouble finding food. Or, other tankmates might take all of the food before this type of fish even knows it's feeding time. Larger pellets that sink to the bottom are good choices, because the telescope eye goldfish likes to scavenge the bottom of the tank for food. Hand feeding is another option, which will result in your pet coming to the top of the tank to take morsels directly from you. A combination of flake and frozen fish food and even small pieces of fruits and vegetables will give your goldfish the diet he needs for a long healthy life.

Watch for illness, injury and disease to ensure that your telescope eye goldfish lives his long lifespan. When you catch symptoms early, there are medications such as fish antibiotics that you can add to your tank. If you have multiple fish, separating a sick one will help prevent disease from spreading. If your pet changes behavior or shows suspicious symptoms, talk to your veterinarian about possible solutions. A change in swimming patterns, lack of appetite, forced breathing, pale gills, ripped fins, wounds and spots or marks on his body are signs that you need to evaluate your fish for problems that could reduce his life expectancy.