Question
Hello!  I read your answer to the question about putting the two goldfish in a pond.....however, it doesn't say anything about what happens when the temp. drops in the fall/winter as it does here in Cleveland.  I am contemplating transferring my two goldfish I have had since March, but I just want to know what will happen to them when it gets cold. Also, will bigger goldfish already in the pond, eat these tiny one-inch goldfish?  I just want to make sure that they will be better off out there, than in a 10 gallon aquarium inside my home that will not get taken care of as well as it should due to my hectic life.  Thank you for your help!  I need to decide tomorrow!  

Answer
Hi Nancy,
Thanx for your question.  Godlfish in general, are hardy fish.  They should survive the winter in your outdoor pond in Cleveland unless it is less than 18-24 inches deep.  Fish will suffocate if the surface is allowed to freeze over.  Pet stores and watergardening centers sell a small heater that is inexpensive to run which keeps the water warm enough around it (about 38 F) so that ice doesn't form.  This allows toxic gasses to escape from the water.  As long as your fish are not pan-sized, I'd say they probably won't be interested in trying to swallow 1 inch goldfish.  I think the smaller fish will be okay and will find places to hide if the larger fish try to chase them.  I hope this helps.
Tom