Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Live Plant Safe: With Caution
General Description: Shubunkin are a great beginner goldfish, as long as proper care and conditions are provided. They have been a mainstay in the hobby for many years, having been the result of selective breeding in early 20th century Japan. Shubunkin differ from common goldfish, as they have a long, flowing, forked tail and are multicolored and individuals vary significantly with red, black, orange, and blueish-gray markings on a white background. When ready to spawn, males will develop notches on their head called tubercles, and females will appear more plump. Shubunkins may appear small at fish stores, but will ultimately require a large aquarium or pond as they can exceed 12 inches over time.Â
Diet Requirements: Shubunkin goldfish are omnivores and will accept most foods that are offered. Some options include goldfish specific flake or pellets, brine shrimp, blood worms, and various plant matter.Â
Care Requirements: Goldfish prefer cool water, usually ranging from 60-70F, but can tolerate a much wider range especially in outdoor ponds. Due to being a coldwater species it is best to keep them with other comets or related goldfish varieties in an outdoor pond or 75 gallon or larger aquarium for overwintering indoors. Shubunkins produce a large amount of waste, so good filtration and oxygenation are necessary. Shubunkin goldfish are a long-lived species and can live for more than ten years in captivity. Floating plants are best for aquariums or ponds with shubunkins as they have a tendency to sift through gravel and uproot species. Shubunkins are very peaceful and sociable fish. Recommended water conditions, 36-90° F, KH 2-12, pH 6.8-7.2.
Purchase Size: Small: 2″ to 3″; Medium: 4″ to 6″; Large: 6″ to 8″
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Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase size is approximate.
