Who said goldfish have to be golden in color? The Shubunkin Goldfish, while technically a goldfish, has very little gold color on it—if any at all. But that doesn’t mean they’re not worthy of your tank.
The Shubunkin Goldfish—also commonly known as the Calico Goldfish—is a hardy swimmer that is super easy to care for. Plus, they get along with all other friendly fish. Shubunkins are great beginner fish for anyone getting into creating an aquarium.
These single-tailed goldfish are a staple of just about every single assorted fish tank out there. Let’s dive into the specifics of this fish and why they’re so popular.
Quick Facts about Shubunkin Goldfish
| Species Name: | Carassius auratus |
| Family: | Cyprinidae |
| Care Level: | Easy |
| Temperature: | 65°-72° F |
| Temperament: | Laidback and peaceful |
| Color Form: | Calico |
| Lifespan: | Up to 15 years |
| Size: | Up to 12 inches |
| Diet: | Omnivorous, Pellets and Flakes |
| Minimum Tank Size: | 75 gallons |
| Tank Set-Up: | Freshwater with planted flora |
| Compatibility: | Gets along with other peaceful fish |
Shubunkin Goldfish Overview
The Shubunkin Goldfish truly is a fish of a different color. They’re considered calico-colored, which means that they’re mottled with many different colors including black, white, red, and metallic colored scales.
It is believed that this fish was created through selective breeding around the turn of the 20th century in Japan. The Shubunkin is a direct descendant of the Prussian carp; however, the details are a bit foggy as to exactly how this happened. They also share several characteristics with carp including not having true teeth. Instead, the Shubunkin has a few rows of pharyngeal teeth in their throat.
These goldfish adapt better to colder temperatures than other similar fish, allowing them to thrive both in aquariums or outdoor ponds.
