Goldfish vs Pea Puffer

Side-by-side care comparison to help you choose.

GoldfishPea Puffer
DifficultyIntermediateIntermediate
Adult size6-12 inches (depending on type)1-1.5 inches
Lifespan10-15 years4-5 years
Min tank size20-40 gallons10 gallons
Water temp65-75 F74-82°F
pH6.5-7.56.5-7.5
TemperamentPeacefulSemi-aggressive; can be nippy, especially among conspecifics; best in species-only tank
Tank matesOther goldfish; avoid fin nippers and small fish that fit in mouth.Best kept alone or with fast, small fish (e.g., danios, rasboras); avoid long-finned or slow fish
DietHigh-quality sinking pellets or gel food, supplemented with blanched vegetables (peas, zucchini) and occasional bloodworms. Feed 2-3 times daily in small amounts.Carnivorous; requires live foods (snails, bloodworms, brine shrimp) daily; may accept high-quality frozen foods