Fish Goldfish 
fish are sold each year at a value of half a million 
dollars. Even the humblest homes have their 
goldfish in little aquaria, while the wealthy have 
these brilliant little water pets in the ponds and 
fountains of their wonderful gardens. 
Goldfish belong to the carp family, and are called 
by some the green carp. They may attain a length 
of eighteen inches. It is said that they may live 
to be a hundred years old, but probably this is an 
exaggeration. But there are instances on record 
where specimens have been kept in an aquarium 
and in good condition from ten to sixteen years. 
The first goldfish seen in France were those im- 
ported for the famous Madame Pompadour. They 
were early established in Portugal, the streams near 
Lisbon swarmed with them, and from this source all 
Europe became stocked; and today in Portugal 
they are considered a delicacy for the table. From 
Europe they were brought to America and have 
become thoroughly acclimated. The annual sale 
of goldfish in this country is estimated at two 
millions. 
Goldfish need and enjoy a warm temperature in 
still waters. Ponds are best for them, but they 
thrive in streams and multiply rapidly. They sleep 
in the broad sunlight at noon, and they also sleep 
at midnight. 
Goldfish have good memories, and soon learn to 
recognize their master. It is therefore very im- 
portant that only one person give them food and 
care, and these should be given with great regularity. ' 
In China, goldfish have been known to become so 
devoted to their master, that they would follow his 
boat, and seem to invite caresses from his hand. 
The famous goldfish breeder, Mr. Hugo Mulertt, 
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