Helping a New Comet Goldfish Adjust to a Pond Environment

It's Stress, Not Sickness

Nemo's hiding is a normal reaction to the trauma of capture, transport, and a completely new environment. Goldfish have simple brains but complex stress responses.

What to Do

• Leave him alone. Do not net or chase him.
• Ensure water quality is perfect (test ammonia, nitrite, pH).
• Feed near his hiding spot so he associates you with food.
• Provide plenty of cover (plants, pipes, caves).

Timeline

Most fish acclimate in a few days to a couple of weeks. As long as he's eating eventually and water is good, he'll come out.