Shubunkin Goldfish
Carassius auratus (Shubunkin)
What you need to keep a Shubunkin Goldfish
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pH
6.5–8.5
Temperature
4–30 °C
Max size
35 cm
Min tank
300 L
Where to buy
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Overview
What to know before you buy.
The Shubunkin is a hardy, single-tailed goldfish variety renowned for its spectacular calico colouration — a unique mix of blue, orange, red, white, and black patches over a nacreous (semi-transparent) scale type. The most prized specimens feature a deep blue base colour with splashes of other colours. Like the Comet, Shubunkins are vigorous swimmers that thrive in outdoor ponds and can reach impressive sizes. The Bristol, London, and American varieties each have distinct tail fin shapes.
Key traits
Care guide
Keeping Shubunkin Goldfish healthy in a South African setup.
Tank setup
A minimum 300L aquarium suits Shubunkin Goldfish. Provide hiding spots and stable, well-filtered water; it suits a community setup.
Water parameters
Keep pH 6.5–8.5 and 4–30°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers; acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Feeding
Omnivore. Feed small amounts it clears in a couple of minutes, and vary the diet.
Behaviour
Peaceful. Watch it at feeding time and at lights-out to see its real temperament in your tank.
Tankmates
Choose tankmates of similar size and temperament with the same water needs. Avoid fin-nippers and anything large enough to eat it.
Breeding
Shubunkin Goldfish can breed in home aquariums with a conditioned pair and stable water.
Community photos
From hobbyists across SA.