January 2008

GFSA Info

Happy New Year from the GFSA!

Look for the final 2007 November/December issue this month. For info and general updates on the Goldfish Report, take a look here for info from the editor on upcoming issues of the Goldfish Report and the publication schedule. This page is updated as information is provided to the Webmaster.

If you have let your membership lapse or have been thinking about joining the GFSA, now is a great time - here is a form you can print. To submit material for the Goldfish Report to our editor, please see the updated society contact info. Articles and photos in electronic form are particularly appreciated.

The current line-up of people filling the GFSA offices is on the society officers page. The GFSA Board of Directors continues 2007 with a focus on ensuring that the society is undertaking activities and providing services that our members want. Tell us if there is something you really want (even better, volunteer to help us do it).

Interested in joining the GFSA but still not sure? We have two sample Goldfish Reports available to download, to demonstrate that every issue is packed with thought provoking information and pictures available nowhere else. We are also promoting an electronic membership option that significantly lowers the cost of membership! Only $10US gets you a year of informative, timely color issues of the GFSA's Goldfish Report, sent directly to your email inbox.

Lessons Learned "Quick Hits"

We are soliciting short lessons-learned from hobbyists: events that possibly left you sadder, but measurably wiser. Have a good one? Please send it to the  . Here is a brief diatribe from the Webmaster:

There are a few tasks that should be done annually. Now, in the first month of the new year, is a great time to do this for your in-house goldfish activities (and outside too, for those of you where it is warm). By making a habit of doing this at the start of the year, it will be easier to remember. Maybe even a tradition! Here is a starter checklist, please make your own for your particular situation:

  1. Check cords and plug strips, to make sure they will not get tripped over or wet from spills. Unplug and plug back in all plugs, to ensure there is no corrosion forming.

  2. Check light fixtures, to ensure no lime buildups, corrosion, or flaking paint. Remove all bulbs and check contacts for signs of corrosion or electrical arcing.

  3. Check fluorescent bulb output; if they are too old, the light output may be significantly diminished and they will need replacement.

  4. Verify that all other electrical devices, like heaters, air pumps, light timers, and auto-feeders are actually working the way you expect.

  5. Objectively assess your filtration setup and condition. If the water flow is diminished or if "permanent" sponges are wearing out, you may need to order replacement parts or even a new filter. Always try cleaning the filter impellors etc. thoroughly first, to be sure things are not just dirty.

  6. Inspect all aquarium stands for excessive corrosion, sagging or opening/failing joints.

  7. If you plan to breed goldfish this year, make sure you know where any special equipment you need is (like brine shrimp hatcheries) and that it is clean and ready for use. If you need storable foods (like brine shrimp eggs), order them now.

  8. Objectively review the contents of your aquariums: have the fish grown in the last year to a point that the tank is now overcrowded?

  9. Is there gravel or other things in the aquarium that require a strip-down and thorough cleaning?

  10. And finally; set some goals for 2008 to advance your goldfish hobby ... learn new things, meet new people, do interesting things with your fish and fishkeeping!