Golden Shiner 5 - 7cm

Please note that we do not ship fish by mail. All fish must be collected from us in Oberweningen. We will professionally pack your fish and ensure sufficient oxygenation. This means that even longer transports can be managed without problems. Our staff will also be happy to advise you on transport and the correct introduction of the fish into your pond.

Origin and Appearance
The golden shiner, also called the American shiner or fathead minnow, is a cultivated form of the North American minnow and is not related to our native minnow.

They have a golden-yellow to orange coloration, grow to about 9 cm, and live for 2-3 years. In contrast to our native minnows, only the males of the golden shiners have a bulky head.

Care and Feeding
Golden shiners are schooling fish that should always be kept in groups; we recommend a stocking density of at least 5 fish.

They feed on microorganisms or fish spawn. In the home pond, we feed golden shiners with sinking mini pellets, which they readily accept.

They are robust fish that rarely get sick. If the water quality is good, they also feel comfortable in smaller bodies of water from 500 liters, making them ideal for our domestic garden ponds. Golden shiners like plant growth in the pond and sandy substrate. They mostly stay just below the water surface, where they look for airborne food such as small insects.

Due to their lively and friendly nature, golden shiners can be easily socialized with other carp-like pond fish. However, they have higher demands on water quality and water oxygenation. They like slightly flowing water, which can be achieved with a stream or a flow pump.

During spawning season, the male develops an even more intense color and develops what is known as a breeding rash, which appears as white spots in the head region.
Golden shiners are cave spawners. The female lays up to 1000 eggs in small caves or under hollow stones. The spawn is then fertilized by the male. The male guards the offspring until the larvae hatch.

Good water values are a prerequisite for keeping golden shiners; a filter system and, above all, sufficient oxygenation are therefore essential for the well-being of the animals.

Water Temperatures and Hibernation
Golden shiners are cold-water fish and can cope with a wide variety of conditions. They tolerate temperatures between 4 - 28 °C well. Hibernation in our domestic garden ponds is therefore not a problem.