FISH OF THE WEEK | Shubunkin Goldfish

FISH OF THE WEEK | Shubunkin Goldfish

Did you know that goldfish can be blue? These stunning fish have a funny name but are one of the coolest looking fish. Shubunkins are like a common goldfish in body shape and have a single tail but they typically have longer flowing finnage depending on the type of shubunkin it is. They are best known for their calico blue coloration that is a mix of blue, red, orange, white, black and gray splotches. They also have many nacreous or transparent slightly metallic like scales, giving them almost a watercolor like appearance. In fact they remind us most of our very own Rainbow Fish from the kids book! 


These are one of the hardiest types of goldfish and let's dive into why the Shubunkin Goldfish is the ideal option for both new and experienced fish owners.

Why Choose Shubunkin Goldfish?

Shubunkin Goldfish are known for their vibrant colors and unique calico patterns, making them a visually appealing choice for any fish enthusiast. They are also incredibly hardy, able to adapt to a wide range of water conditions and temperatures. This resilience makes them an excellent option for beginners who are still learning the ins and outs of fish care. They do well in both large tanks and ponds of all sizes. They are ideal for outdoor ponds as they can grow fast and show up well in most ponds. In fact they even get the nickname the "poor man's koi" as they are just as colorful but typically cheaper than koi. 

Low Maintenance, High Reward

One of the key benefits of owning Shubunkin Goldfish is their low maintenance

 requirements. These fish are not picky eaters and will happily feast on a diet of flake or pellet food as well as eating any natural food in your system. They also do well in larger tanks, making them a versatile choice for different living spaces. With proper care and a well-maintained tank, Shubunkin Goldfish can live for up to 10 years or more, providing you with years of enjoyment. They do grow to the space and envrionment they are giving and can live a long great life with proper water maintance in a tank gowing 6+ inches. When in a pond environment they can grow 10+ inches. 

Compatibility and Social Behavior

Shubunkin Goldfish are known for their peaceful and social nature, making them excellent community fish. They get along well with other goldfish varieties and are generally non-aggressive towards tank mates. They look especially great in systems with other goldfish like common or sarasa. They do well with koi as well. We do always suggest when mixing koi and goldfish, to try to get similarily sized fish as koi can be a bit more on the agressive side! It's essential to keep in mind that both goldfish and koi are active swimmers and will appreciate a spacious tank to explore and play in.

Tips for Caring for Shubunkin Goldfish

When caring for Shubunkin Goldfish, it's crucial to make sure they have good water quality and depending on your system, make sure to perform regular water changes.  Additionally, ensure they have plenty of space to swim and explore, as well as a balanced diet to keep them healthy and thriving. Goldfish are omnivores and will eat flakes, pellets, and any natural food sources in your pond. Do remember to not overfeed as it can cause water quality and swim bladder problems.

When you first recieve your fish, don't be alarmed if they don't come up and feed right away as some fish take time to adjust to their new system and learn to come up and feed. Feed training can take a couple weeks, but both goldfish and koi are very food motiviated and typically pick it up quickly. We recommend being consitent in the time and place you feed so they can learn your routine and learn to associate you with food. We also suggest feeding in the morning or evening as the fish are more active at these cooler times of day. 

A Few More Quick Tips for Shubunkin Goldfish

• Prioritize water quality first - bad water kills goldfish faster than anything else
• Protect in outdoor ponds from predators like herons - shubunkins are colorful so easy targets! 
• Feed a varied diet - this keeps their immune system strong and coloration vibrant

Fun Facts About Shubunkin Goldfish

• Shubunkin means "red brocade" in Japanese, describing their colorful, patchy appearance 
• They are considered one of the hardiest goldfish and can handle outdoor temperatures swings 
• Color Changes - junvenile shubunkins often change colors as they grow and their coloration becomes more vibrant especially their blue patches

Whether you're a seasoned fish owner looking to add a new species to your collection or a beginner taking your first dive into the world of fishkeeping, the Shubunkin Goldfish is an excellent choice. With their striking appearance, easy care requirements, and social nature, these fish are sure to bring joy and beauty to your aquarium for years to come.

Check out our Toledo Goldfish Shubunkin options: https://toledogoldfish.com/collections/shubunkin-goldfish