Goldfish Bowls Kill
 Like many people, I always had a vague sense that fish bowls might be kind of small. But it was only when I became involved in fishkeeping myself, through rescuing a betta called Jellybean, that I realized how seriously inadequate they are.
The main problems with goldfish bowls (and other small tanks) are:
For goldfish especially, fishbowls are profoundly inappropriate because goldfish are one of the largest fish commonly kept. A full grown goldfish can be a foot or more long! And yes, this includes those tiny "feeder goldfish" sold for 10 cents each, which too often are given away as prizes or party favors. Depending on who you ask, goldfish need 10, 20, or more gallons EACH. And since goldfish are schooling fish, it's best to have more than one. Those "cheap" 10 cent goldfish require hundreds of dollars worth of equipment—a large tank, a sturdy stand, a good filter, etc.—to look after properly. Google around and you will find lots of great information on goldfish care. One site I have found helpful is Goldfish Paradise. Goldfish kept in bowls may survive a few years, if they are lucky. (Many live only a few months.) During that time, they will be slowly poisoned by their own wastes, and their immune systems will be weakened by the stress of this poisoning and temperature fluctuations. Eventually the goldfish will succumb to either poisoning or illness. On the other hand, goldfish in suitably large tanks or ponds can live 20 YEARS or more! (The Guinness Book of World Records says the oldest known goldfish lived 43 years.) Regardless of how common goldfish are and how cheaply they are bought, they are still animals with feelings and needs who deserve proper care. Raise awareness with these "Goldfish bowls KILL" T-shirts, buttons, magnets, stickers, and more. All of the proceeds from these products will be used for my fish rescuing efforts. |
