Any fish vets who might know about goldfish eye sensitivity? I'm building an underwater laser harp and need to know what light intensity might damage goldfish vision.
Vet‑written answer
<p>Appreciate the question—let's unpack this! Goldfish have quite sensitive eyes, and it's great that you're thinking about their well-being as you build your underwater laser harp. Goldfish can see a range of lights, but intense or direct light, especially lasers, can cause stress or harm to their eyes. Their eyes are adapted to moderate lighting; too bright or direct light can lead to injury or even vision loss over time. <br><br><br><br>To keep your goldfish safe, you should aim to diffuse any light sources and avoid pointing lasers directly at them. As a rule, try to replicate natural conditions with soft lighting and ensure that any direct laser exposure is minimal, both in intensity and duration.<br><br><br><br>Watch for signs like your goldfish appearing more lethargic, frequently hiding, or showing changes in swimming behavior, as these may indicate discomfort or stress related to lighting. <br><br><br><br>If you notice these signs or just want more tailored advice for your goldfish's specific environment, I'd recommend setting up a video consult with one of our fish specialists on Dial A Vet. They'll be able to provide more detailed guidance to make sure your underwater project is safe and enjoyable for both you and your fish.</p>