Compatible Pond Mates for Goldfish and Orfe: Shubunkins, Minnows, and Turtles

Fish Additions

Shubunkins and sarassa comets add color and coexist well. Rosy red minnows (sold as feeder "tuffies") are hardy and breed readily. Golden tench are rare in the US but compatible if sourced.

Mosquito Fish Warning

Gambusia (mosquito fish) eat beneficial insect larvae and may nip fins. Orfe and goldfish already control mosquitoes.

Turtles

Native painted turtles are the best bet—they eat some plants but won't destroy all lilies if plant mass is high. Accept some loss.

Winter in Albuquerque

At 5000 feet, a de-icer is essential to maintain a gas-exchange hole.