Discover the Stunning Black Moor Goldfish

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When it comes to goldfish, the Black Moor variety is one of the most attractive and unusual types you’ll encounter. These coal-black fish are easy to identify by their distinctive protruding eyes and elegant, floating finnage. A true beauty in the world of fish keeping, Black Moors can thrive in a large tank or a garden pond. With the correct conditions and a high-quality diet, they can even spawn naturally.

However, while they may be marketed as ideal starter fish for beginners, they aren’t the easiest for novices to manage. These delicate creatures are somewhat vulnerable to injury and require special attention.

If you’re ready to take on the challenge, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about caring for these beautiful fish. Their charm, though, makes it all worth it.

Black Moor Goldfish

What is a Black Moor Goldfish?

The Black Moor is a unique type of goldfish, also known by names like Black Peony or Dragon Eye. As a Fancy goldfish, it has a distinctive round or egg-shaped body and long, flowing fins that make it stand out in any aquarium. The Black Moor is easily recognizable due to its large, protruding eyes, which are more bulbous compared to similar species like the Telescope goldfish.

These fish are always black, with velvety, metallic scales that give them a striking appearance. You can find them with different types of tails, including veil tails, butterfly tails, ribbon tails, or more commonly, a broad tail. This combination of features makes them a popular choice for fish enthusiasts looking for something truly distinctive.

Origins of the Black Moor Goldfish

The Black Moor goldfish, like all Fancy goldfish, is not a species you’ll find in the wild environment. It’s an artificial creation, born from years of selective breeding. These fish are closely related to the Silver Prussian carp, a wild species native to Central Asia and Siberia, where they live in lakes, rivers, and ponds with slow currents. In their natural habitat, they feed on crustaceans, insect larvae, algae, and other plant matter or detritus.

Back in the 1500s, Chinese Buddhist monks started keeping these carp as food fish, but a genetic quirk caused a few to develop brightly colored traits, leading them to keep these as ornamental specimens. Over time, selective breeding produced more colorful variations, eventually leading to the modern goldfish, Carassius auratus auratus.

By the 1600s, goldfish were being traded to Europe, and by the late 1800s, they reached the US, becoming popular as ornamental pond fish. Today, Asian breeders have developed 125 breeds of Fancy fantail goldfish, making them one of the most diverse groups of ornamental fish.

History of the Black Moor Goldfish

The Black Moor Goldfish has a fascinating history that traces back to China, where this species originated. The roots of these fish go as far as the Tang Dynasty, a time when they were known as “Dragon Eyes” because of their protruding telescope eyes.

These fish were selectively bred over time to enhance their unique features, which has played a key role in their evolution. Understanding this historical significance gives us a deeper appreciation for the characteristics of the Black Moor and its remarkable journey through time, from its humble origins to becoming one of the most beloved ornamental fish today.

What Makes the Black Moor Black?

The black coloration of the Black Moor Goldfish is due to an excess of melanic pigment in the skin. Young Moors under 30 days are typically a dull gray with normal eyes, but as they reach around five weeks to six weeks, the black pigment begins to show, and some early developers may also develop telescopic eyes.

The best Black Moors feature a deep velvety blue-black coloration that covers the entire body, including the fins and ventral area. However, if the fish shows an underlying bronziness, they may eventually change color, often turning orange or red, becoming Red Moors. Some metallic Goldfish may even change color faster in warmer water. Those with a white or silvery ventral area may remain black throughout their life, according to experts.

Physical Characteristics

The Black Moor Goldfish has a unique set of physical characteristics that make it easily recognizable. It features a metallic, deep velvety, blue-black coloration that covers the entire body, including the fins and ventral area. Its eyes are one of its most striking features, as they project outwards and slightly forward, with an even size and shape, and a prominent development that matches the head size.

The body depth of a healthy Black Moor should be about 65% of its body length. All fins, except the dorsal, are paired, and the tail fins should be divided, even, and free from any curled or bent extremities. According to the UK Nationwide Goldfish Standards, the tail fins of the Black Moor should be veil-tails or broad tails, with a minimum length of 75% of the body length, and no fork.

The American Goldfish Association also recognizes both veil-tail and forked tail variations. Genetics and proper fry care can determine the size, with a typical Black Moor reaching around 125mm or 5 inches in body length.

Black Moor Eye Variations

The eyes of Black Moor Goldfish come in different sizes and shapes, making each fish unique. Some of them resemble smooth cones when viewed from above, while others may protrude slightly and display a pattern of concentric circles that become gradually smaller.

There’s also the rounded protuberant type, where the eyes look like small balloons attached to the sides of the cheeks, giving the fish a distinct and appealing appearance.

Black Moor Goldfish Lifespan

The Black Moor Goldfish is a fascinating and hardy creature that can thrive for up to 15 years, with some even living as long as 10 years. To ensure these beautiful goldfish live a long, healthy life, they need to be fed a varied, high-quality diet.

Keeping them in a well-maintained aquarium plays a crucial role in extending their lifespan. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced aquarist, creating the right environment and offering proper care can make all the difference in how long your Black Moor Goldfish will flourish.

Black Moor Goldfish Price and Availability

Black Moor goldfish are often readily available at your local fish store, where you’ll typically find specimens with a broad tail configuration. However, if you’re looking for something more unique, you can usually find rarer tail types through online specialist breeders.

The price of these specimens usually starts around $8 or more, depending on the size, quality, and shape of the fish. If you’re planning to get one, consider the fish’s specific characteristics to determine the cost.

Is The Black Moor Goldfish Suitable For Beginners?

The Black Moor goldfish is often considered a suitable pet for beginners, but there are a few things to keep in mind. These fancy fish are dirty, meaning they produce a lot of waste. Since they lack a stomach, their digestive system constantly processes food and eliminates waste as they swim, essentially turning them into a waste disposal unit.

This means that maintaining a clean tank with a powerful filtration system that includes both mechanical and biological media is essential. You’ll also need to perform weekly water changes to remove harmful nitrates from the water. In addition, Black Moors have protruding, telescope eyes, which are vulnerable to injury and can affect their eyesight.

If not properly cared for, they may experience stress and even starvation due to missed feedings. Given their egg-shaped bodies, they are also prone to digestive problems, so a specialist diet is important. With the right care, these beautiful creatures can thrive in your home.

Black Moor Goldfish Care Guide

1.Tank Setup and Maintenance

When setting up a tank for your Black Moor Goldfish, it’s essential to consider its needs. A single Black Moor requires a tank of at least 70 liters (15 imperial gallons or 18 US gallons), with a good filter to maintain clean water. The tank size should allow the fish to grow comfortably while keeping the water temperature stable and minimizing swings.

Regular water changes are necessary to keep nitrates below 30 ppm. If you’re adding additional Goldfish, each will need another 45 liters (10 imperial gallons or 12 US gallons). For aesthetic purposes, a tank that’s taller than it is deep will provide ample space for plants like Vallisneria, and it will also offer a larger viewing area. Avoid placing your tank in areas with direct sunlight or even strong indirect sunlight, as these conditions can promote algae growth. If your tank is exposed to light, you can consider installing a UV clarifier to help manage algal blooms.

2.Maintaining Water Quality

Maintaining good water quality is crucial for the health of your Black Moor Goldfish. Like all goldfish varieties, they need specific conditions to thrive. The ideal water parameters for Black Moor include a pH between 6.5-7.4, nitrates below 30 ppm, and both ammonia and nitrites at zero. For very young fish (fry), nitrates should be kept below 5 ppm. The water temperature should be between 60-75°F (16-24°C), and the GH (general hardness) should be in the range of 130-200 ppm with a KH (carbonate hardness) of 89-142 ppm.

Regularly checking the water with a test kit that uses test tubes and solutions is important. Avoid using test strips, as they are often inaccurate. It’s essential to make water changes as needed based on these readings. If your water source is from a bore, it might have high nitrates and hardness levels, so checking the water parameters regularly will ensure the right balance. With consistent attention, your Black Moor will enjoy a healthy environment that keeps them thriving.

3.Filtration and Heating

For Black Moor Goldfish, having a filter is not absolutely essential but can significantly reduce the maintenance required. Without a filter, you’ll need to perform water changes more often to keep ammonia levels at a safe level. Once the filter is cycled, it helps remove harmful nitrites and ammonia, converting them into less harmful nitrates. However, a water test kit is necessary to ensure the nitrate level stays below 30 ppm, prompting a water change when needed. Additionally, since Black Moors are not the strongest swimmers, it’s important that the filter doesn’t create a current they need to fight against. The filter should ideally turn the aquarium water volume over four times an hour.

When it comes to temperature, Black Moors are warm water fish and prefer seasonal temperature fluctuations. Unlike cold water fish, they can tolerate low temperatures briefly, but prolonged exposure to cold water can cause buoyancy problems, which is more common in fancy goldfish. If kept indoors, a heater isn’t necessary as long as water temperatures stay above freezing, but if the Moors are placed in an outside pond where temperatures might drop below 7°C (45°F) for extended periods in winter, it’s best to bring them inside.

4.Plants and Substrate

When setting up a Black Moor Goldfish aquarium, choosing the right plants and substrate is crucial for both the fish and the plants. Vallisneria is a suitable plant for your tank, growing tall as a background plant, while Blue Hygrophila and Hygrophila Difformis are great for the foreground, with the latter helping to control algae. Red Bacopa adds a unique red tinge to its leaves, and Ludwigia Arcuata requires a significant amount of light to develop its red stems and leaves.

When it comes to substrate, consider your personal choice. Some prefer a bare bottom tank, while others may opt for substrate. Avoid white substrate as it can make your fish lose color intensity. Also, sand is not suitable if you plan to install an under-substrate filter, as the grains should be between 3mm and 6mm in size. Smooth gravel can be dangerous for Black Moors as it can cause them to choke, and I’ve personally lost two fish to this issue. If you plan to grow live plants, using containers can be a good option if you don’t want to use substrate.

5.Lighting

Even though fish don’t strictly need light to survive, it can be incredibly helpful for poorly sighted Black Moors. Proper lighting helps them find their way around and also replicates the natural day/night cycle, which is important for their well-being. Knowing when it’s daytime and when it’s nighttime allows the fish to follow the natural rhythm, where they recognize that when the sun rises, it’s time to eat, and when darkness falls, it’s time to sleep.

This regular cycle plays a significant role in reducing stress and promoting their health. To make things easier, you can set up a lighting unit with an auto-timer so you won’t have to worry about turning the lights on and off. Alternatively, a simple plug timer from your DIY store will work just as well to maintain that natural cycle.

Suitable Tank Mates for Moors

One of the most common mistakes novice Goldfish keepers make is trying to mix fancy varieties like Moors with single-tailed varieties. Since Moors are slow-swimming and short-sighted, they can’t compete effectively for food with the fast-swimming, normal-eyed varieties. Over time, the Moors may starve as the single-tailed fish get the majority of the food. If you pair them with other highly developed varieties, like Celestials or Water Bubble Eyes, the Moors will actually out-compete them for food.

If you plan to keep Moors with other Goldfish, it’s important to create a suitable feeding system to ensure they all get enough nutrition. Plecos and Bristle Nose catfish, often used for algae removal, can become a problem too, as they might nibble on the slime of your Moors as a source of protein. Also, be aware that any small fish or aquatic life that fits in your Moor’s mouth could be eaten.

Nutrition and Feeding

Black Moor goldfish are omnivorous and will happily eat a wide range of foods. To maintain their health, they need a well-balanced diet that includes high-quality fish flakes or Fancy goldfish pellets, along with meaty protein sources like frozen brine shrimp, bloodworms, and krill.

Occasionally, you can also offer treats like blanched zucchini and lettuce. Round-bodied goldfish like the Black Moor are particularly susceptible to issues like constipation and bloating, which can affect their swim bladder, especially if fed too much dried food. This can be remedied by offering a portion of fresh veggies or more meaty protein. To keep them healthy, it’s important to feed them small meals two to three times a day, giving them only what they can eat in two to three minutes to avoid overfeeding.

Health and Diseases

Black Moor Goldfish are just as susceptible to diseases as any other fancy Goldfish, but they are generally more hardier and can withstand low temperatures better than most of the other fancy varieties. However, if they are kept in poor water conditions, their immune system can weaken, making them more vulnerable to parasites, bacteria, or fungal spores, which can lead to death if left untreated. Black Moors are often kept with varieties they can’t compete with for food, like Comets, leading to the Moors becoming weaker over time. This is a common issue when they are used as a color contrast in aquariums full of gold-colored fish.

Unfortunately, unless the other fish are also telescopic-eyed, the Moor won’t get enough food, and it may starve or succumb to disease. The lifespan of a Black Moor is similar to other fancy varieties—with proper care, they can easily live for 10 years in an aquarium and longer if kept in a pond. The biggest threat to adult Black Moors is swim bladder disorder, which doesn’t directly cause death but leads to complications that can. A poor diet in older Moors is often the cause of this condition.

Goldfish, including the Black Moor, can be vulnerable to several types of parasites. These include flukes, which typically affect fish under 52mm (2 inches) in body length, intestinal worms, and protozoan parasites like Costia and Ich (white spot disease). Additionally, free-swimming parasitical crustaceans, such as anchor worms and lice, can also cause harm.

Bacterial infections are another concern, with symptoms like fin rot, bacterial gill disease, mouth rot, pop eye, raised scales, and body sores (ulcers). Red patches on the body and fins are harder to detect on a Black Moor but can still be an indicator of bacterial infection.
Fungal infections are also quite common in Goldfish, appearing as white, cotton wool-like growths on the skin or fins. A more serious fungal infection, Branchiomyces, can destroy gill tissue and ultimately kill the fish.
In terms of viral pathogens, the Lymphocystis virus causes a white crusty growth on the skin, while Papillomatous lesions, caused by the cyprinid herpes or carp pox virus, result in similar-looking growths. Both are not fatal and have different treatment approaches.
Eye injuries are particularly common in the Black Moor due to their large, protruding eyes. Often, a Moor may lose an eye due to contact with other aquarium inhabitants or decorations. Although losing an eye doesn’t significantly affect their behavior, it’s important to place the fish in a mild salt bath to prevent infection.
Additionally, they should be closely monitored during feeding to ensure they receive their fair share of food, as being one-eyed puts them at a disadvantage. It’s also wise not to keep Moors with significantly larger fish, as they may be more likely to lose an eye in the process.

Breeding Black Moor Goldfish

Breeding Black Moor Goldfish can be quite an exciting and rewarding experience. However, these fish can be vulnerable to several health issues, including parasites like flukes, which typically affect fish under 52mm (2 inches) in body length, and intestinal worms. They are also prone to protozoan parasites, such as Costia and Ich (white spot disease), as well as free-swimming parasitical crustaceans like anchor worms and lice. Keeping their environment clean and stable is crucial for preventing these issues.

In addition, Black Moors can suffer from bacterial infections like fin rot, gill disease, mouth rot, and pop eye. They may also develop raised scales, body sores, or ulcers, which can be tough to notice, especially red patches on their bodies and fins. Fungal infections can appear as white, cotton wool-like growths on their skin or fins. Branchiomyces, a more serious fungal infection, destroys gill tissue and can ultimately kill the fish. On top of that, they may be affected by viral pathogens such as Lymphocystis virus or Papillomatous lesions, which, though not fatal, still require attention and different treatments.

Lastly, eye injuries are common for Black Moors due to their large, protruding eyes, which can easily get damaged by other aquarium inhabitants or decorations. If an eye is lost, placing the fish in a salt bath can help prevent infection. Since a one-eyed Moor is at a disadvantage during feeding, it’s important to monitor their food intake, especially when kept with larger fish.

Conclusion

Black Moor goldfish are a unique and stunning variety of goldfish, making them a wonderful addition to any community Fancy goldfish tank. These large fish require a tank of at least 10 gallons or more, along with a highly efficient filter system. Black Moors thrive when kept with other similar round-bodied goldfish species. It’s essential to provide them with a spacious aquarium, free from excessive clutter and sharp objects that could harm their protruding eyes. With the proper environment, Black Moor goldfish can successfully breed in captivity.

Do you own any Black Moor goldfish? Have you successfully bred them? Share your experiences with us in the comments below!

Black Moor Goldfish – The Ultimate Guide!