The goldfish is a member of the carp and minnow family. While goldfish were mostly golden one thousand years ago, they now come in a variety of colors, including orange, yellow, white, black, silver, olive-green, or greenish-brown and combinations of these colors.

Goldfish have been intentionally introduced for ornamental purposes to ponds, fountains, and small lakes.

Goldfish Facts:

• Goldfish might be stunned if they are housed in tanks that are too small for them. When kept in the correct conditions, goldfish can grow to be over a foot long.

• Goldfish constantly have both eyes open because they do not have eyelids. (NOTE: Never engage them in a staring contest!)

• The goldfish lacks a stomach. Instead, they have a long intestinal tract that functions in the same way.

These little swimmers are available to order through the Living Science Material Center CO-OP page to help enhance teaching activities, or even just to have as a classroom pet.