Shubunkin Goldfish (Carassius auratus var. Shubunkin) Care Guide
A single-tail goldfish variety with a distinctive calico pattern of blue, red, orange, black, and white patches.
Overview
Carassius auratus var. Shubunkin is a species in the family Cyprinidae. A single-tail goldfish variety with a distinctive calico pattern of blue, red, orange, black, and white patches. Hardy and active, similar in shape to the common goldfish but with nacreous (pearlescent) scales. Excellent for ponds and large tanks.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cyprinidae
- Genus: Carassius
- Scientific name: Carassius auratus var. Shubunkin
- Other names: Calico Goldfish
- Origin: East Asia
Habitat
The shubunkin is a single-tailed fancy goldfish (Carassius auratus) with calico, nacreous scales. A hardy, fast-swimming form descended from domesticated East Asian goldfish, it tolerates cool temperatures and is well suited to ponds.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 150 L
- Temperature: 15-24 °C
- pH: 6.5-8
- GH: 5-20 °dGH
- Water flow: moderate
- Adult size: 15-30 cm
- Lifespan: 10-20 years
- Difficulty: beginner
Diet
Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.
Compatibility
- Temperament: peaceful
- Position in tank: middle
- Compatible tank mates: Another Goldfish, Dojo Loach, White Cloud Minnow
- Avoid with: Tropical Fish, Small Shrimp, Fancy Goldfish
Breeding
- Breeding strategy: egg-scatterer
- Breeding difficulty: intermediate