Question

A man bought a goldfish in a pet shop. Upon returning home, he put the goldfish in a bowl of recently boiled water that had been cooled quickly. A few minutes later the fish was found dead. Explain what happened to the fish.

Short answer

The fish died due to lack of oxygen in the water after boiling.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Goldfish Habitat Needs

Goldfish are aquatic animals that require specific conditions to survive, including appropriate water temperature and dissolved oxygen levels.

Analyze Effects of Boiling Water

Boiling water removes dissolved gases, including oxygen, which are necessary for fish to breathe.

Consider the Cooling Process

Although the water was cooled quickly, the lack of dissolved oxygen from the initial boiling remains unless the water is aerated properly.

Examine the Result

Without sufficient dissolved oxygen, the fish cannot breathe and will suffocate, resulting in its death.

Key concepts

goldfish habitat

Goldfish need certain conditions to thrive. Goldfish are freshwater fish that live best in environments with a temperature range of 20-23°C (68-74°F).
They require ample space and clean, oxygen-rich water.
In their natural habitat, goldfish benefit from

• steady oxygen levels,
• water filtration,
• and stable temperatures.

Goldfish, like other fish, breathe dissolved oxygen in water through their gills. If the water’s oxygen levels are too low, they cannot survive.
Aquarium owners must ensure their goldfish have access to well-aerated water by using items like air pumps and keeping the tank clean.

boiling water effects

Boiling water impacts its chemical makeup, particularly oxygen content. When water is boiled, all dissolved gases evaporate, including oxygen which fish need to breathe.
Once boiled, water loses the necessary dissolved oxygen, making it unsuitable for aquatic life like goldfish.
Without naturally or artificially reintroducing oxygen into the cooled boiled water, it remains largely depleted of oxygen.
To safely use boiled water for aquariums, it is essential to re-oxygenate it through agitation or using aerating devices.
Cooling boiled water quickly does not immediately restore its oxygen levels.

aquatic animal survival

Aquatic animals depend on their environment for survival. They need water that maintains its natural mix of oxygen and other essential dissolved gases.
When oxygen levels drop, aquatic animals are unable to breathe correctly, leading to severe stress or death.
For instance, goldfish rely on the dissolved oxygen content in water to survive, much like how humans rely on breathable air. In situations where water loses dissolved gases through boiling, restoration is crucial.
Place an aquarium air pump in the water to encourage proper chemical balance which is vital for the survival of aquatic creatures.
Proper monitoring and maintenance of water content ensure the longevity and health of aquatic animals in captivity.