Question
I have a 10" white goldfish whith bulging areas on both sides toward the tail and it is swimming with its head down and tail up.  Also I have put water plants under the water to over winter, this is the first year I have done this and now there is green mosey stuff growning on the edges of the pond in one area. So can you tell me what is wrong with my fish and do I need to get the plants out or what. one plant is a water lotus.I don't know what the others are. They were given to me from another pond. please help me if you can.

Answer
Hi Gail,
Thanx for your question.  Your fish probably has a swim bladder problem.  The best way to deal with this is to stop feeding it standard food and in the next few days, take some peas and remove the outer skin and give this to your fish.  If you are anywhere else but the Deep South, Florida, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, US VI or Southern California your fish will be fairly dormant and not eat much so it will take them some time to eat the peas.  The peas should correct the problem.

I hope this helps.
Tom