Goldfish eat aquatic plants.
As omnivorous fish, goldfish need to obtain a variety of nutrients from their food to maintain their life activities. Aquatic plants are rich in vitamins, minerals, and cellulose, making them an excellent source of nutrition for goldfish. In particular, the protein, fat, and carbohydrates in aquatic plants are essential for the growth and development of goldfish. Therefore, when goldfish are hungry or in search of nutrients, they will choose to eat aquatic plants.
In addition, the environmental conditions in the aquarium can also affect the behavior of goldfish. For example, excessively high water temperature or poor water quality (such as high ammonia - nitrogen content and low dissolved oxygen) may make goldfish feel uncomfortable and trigger a stress response. In such cases, goldfish may gnaw on aquatic plants to relieve stress or look for more suitable living conditions.
However, although goldfish eat aquatic plants, it doesn't mean that one can't plant aquatic plants when raising goldfish. To prevent goldfish from over - grazing on aquatic plants, several measures can be taken. First, ensure a balanced diet for goldfish. Regularly feed high - quality, goldfish - specific feed and add some fresh vegetables in moderation. Second, maintain good water quality in the aquarium. Replace part of the water regularly, use a filter to keep the water clean, and monitor indicators such as water temperature and pH value. Additionally, choose to plant some aquatic plants with tough leaves, thorns, or those with a taste that goldfish don't like. These types of aquatic plants are less likely to be eaten by goldfish.
In conclusion, goldfish do eat aquatic plants, but through proper feeding management and the right choice of aquatic plants, the damage to aquatic plants by goldfish can be effectively reduced, achieving a harmonious co - existence between goldfish and aquatic plants.