I got Expie and Menty four and a half years ago. They have been the only two fish in my tank. Expie died recently and I'm wondering if I should get another Shubunkin for company? People have told me that goldies have a 3 second memory and that he won't even know Expie is gone. I don't know if I'm placing my human ingrams on him or not but he seems a bit bummed out, I know I am!!! My husband says it is up to me as to whether I get more fish, but right now my main concern is Menty. It's a 48 gallon tank and it seems so empty with just one in there. I've asked the Pets mart people (they are useless by the way at least the ones in my store are) they seem to think he will be fine. Everyone tells me wait till Menty goes and get real fish. I LIKE GOLD FISH sue me!!! Anyone out there with any thoughts on this? Has anyone expreienced gold fish loss where there is one left by himself? Also, I'm a bit scard to get another one. Expie and Menty were HUGE FISH, at least 9 inches long from head to end of their tails. Can I even get another fish without him eating it? Expie and Menty grew up together, got big together so there was never any danger of them eating eachother. Is it safe?

Buy one thats slightly larger maybe?

So sorry for your loss. I've heard the 3 second thing too, but I don't necessarily believe it, and even if it's true, fish still have their routines and habits like any other living thing. His tank mate was a part of that. I would say since you have the room, if you are ready, get a second fish. Make sure its not big enough for Menty to fit in his mouth! Generally, goldfish are peaceful and communal. I have two that follow each other around all day. However, things might be tense the first day or two and I would be prepared to return the new fish just in case. Goodluck!

Thank you for providing an answer that was throughtfull!!! I think I'm going to wait a few weeks to see if Menty gets sick. The lady at Fish 4 U thought that Expie may have died of dropsey and for me to give it a week or two before introducing a new fish. Menty seems happy but flashes a lot and gets spooked easy. I just want him happy.

Again thank you for your reply, it is greatly appreciated.

I am very sorry to hear of your loss.
The 3 second myth has been disproved many times. I never believed it, if it was true then how come when I walk up to my tank they all swim over waiting to be fed, when my daughter comes over they don't react at all.
If it were me I would absolutley get another one, just be sure to QT it first.

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They told me to wait at least three weeks and see if he stays healthy then consider getting a new goldie. I like the Shubunkins so I'll more than likeley stick with them. it sure does look odd, that one big fish swimming all alone in that big tank.