What do you call a white goldfish? Whitefish?

Was told when I came back from work that 2 of our goldfishes died. Oh well, I think we have about 5 left. If you're going to keep a pet, keeping a goldfish [or any fish for that matter] is one of the easiest one to have. Why?

• They don't make any noise.
• They stay put & don't chew on your furniture.
• They don't leave any mess behind that you need to clean up.
• They don't pick & choose their food.
• They don't need to see a vet.

Having said that, please don't have the impression that taking care of a fish is like taking care of cactus. You do have to change the water in the tank regularly and ensure the water is suitable for them. My brother is really into fish. He bought a $50+ dollar water testing kit & various other water conditioners. He has a book about breeding fish and also did some research on the internet about them. I was told he also spends hours in front of the fish tank just looking at the fish swim. Must calm the nerves somewhat don't you think?

I was reminded of a female friend who likes to keep goldfishes as pets, unfortunately she has rotten luck as they all tend to die in a matter of months. However she didn't give up but kept on persisting and bought another set of goldfishes. A few months later, same old story, all had passed away [can I say that of fishes?]... set free by the flush of the toilet. One time the younger sister commented that when they were at the aquarium, she asked her old sister [the one with the bad luck], "which fish are you going to choose to die?". Ouch ... she said it jokingly, no malice intended [but still kinda harsh isn't it?]. Eventually, I think my friend gave up. Maybe it's a good thing.

What you you all think about keeping fish? I know of one girl who keeps a fighting fish ...