When it comes to types of goldfish, there is no shortage of variety. From the classic Common Goldfish to the more exotic Bubble Eye Goldfish, there are many different varieties to choose from.
Whether you’re an experienced aquarist looking to add to your collection or just getting started in the hobby, having a solid understanding of the different varieties of goldfish available is key.
They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, making it easy to find the perfect type of goldfish for your home aquarium. Below, we’ll take a look at 15 of the most common types of goldfish and their unique characteristics.
Types of Goldfish
Comet
The Comet goldfish is a slender, torpedo-shaped variety that is known for its long fins and tail. It has an extended dorsal fin and the tail fin is deeply forked, often with slightly frayed edges. Comet goldfish are the most common type of goldfish kept as pets and they are one of the oldest varieties. They come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, white, black, calico, and orange.
They are hardy fish that are relatively easy to care for and can survive in a wide range of water conditions. Comets grow up to 8 inches in length and they have a lifespan of up to 10 years when properly cared for.
They are active swimmers and they prefer a large tank with plenty of room to swim.
Shubunkin
Shubunkin goldfish is a type of fancy goldfish that have unique, elongated tails. They are similar to the Comet and Common Goldfish, but with a few distinct differences. The Shubunkin has a sleeker body shape and a more pronounced dorsal fin.
In terms of coloring, they have a base color of blue or orange, which is complemented by various shades of white and black patches. They can also have calico coloration, which includes white, black, yellow, red, and orange.
Shubunkin goldfish are relatively hardy and can tolerate temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F. They do best in an aquarium with a good filtration system and plenty of space to swim around. As they are active swimmers, they need plenty of room to move around without bumping into each other or into aquarium decorations.
They will do best with a varied diet including both plant matter and protein-rich food sources like small insects or worms.
Overall, the Shubunkin goldfish is a beautiful and interesting fish to keep in an aquarium. With the right care, they can make for interesting additions to any home aquarium.
Fantail
Fantail goldfish is one of the most popular varieties of goldfish and are easily recognizable for their distinctively split tails. These goldfish have an egg-shaped body with a deep chest and a long, double caudal fin that forms a fan shape. Fantails come in a variety of colors including white, orange, red, and black, and can have either metallic or nacreous scales.
These hardy fish are easy to care for and adaptable to different environments. They prefer a spacious tank with plenty of hiding spots as well as a layer of gravel to protect their delicate scales. They are active swimmers but don’t need an especially powerful filtration system as they are relatively tolerant of less-than-ideal water conditions.
Fantails are omnivores and should be fed a variety of foods such as flakes, pellets, and frozen foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms.
Fantails make good companions for many other species of goldfish and can even be kept with small fish like guppies, although they may pick on slow-moving species such as tetras. Like all goldfish, Fantails require clean water and regular maintenance to remain healthy and happy. With the right care, these beautiful fish can live up to 10 years in captivity.
Ryukin
Ryukin goldfish is one of the most popular varieties and are easily recognized by their distinct egg-shaped bodies and long, elegant fins. They have a deep hump between their eyes and feature a high, pointed dorsal fin. They have a rounded tails with well-developed lobes, and their profile is relatively steep compared to other types of goldfish.
Ryukin goldfish come in a variety of colors including orange, white, red, black, yellow, and calico. They can also be bred to produce various patterns such as the “belly spot” variety which has an attractive spotted pattern on its belly.
When it comes to caring, Ryukin goldfish require a larger aquarium due to their active swimming behavior.
They need plenty of swimming space and prefer tanks that are at least 30 gallons in size. They should also be provided with plenty of hiding places where they can take refuge when they feel stressed or scared.
Due to their active swimming behavior, Ryukin goldfish require a high-quality diet that contains plenty of protein and fiber. They should be fed a variety of foods such as flakes, pellets, frozen foods, and live foods such as brine shrimp or bloodworms.
Ryukin goldfish make excellent additions to any aquarium and can add an eye-catching element to any tank. With proper care and the right diet, they will live long, healthy lives and provide many years of enjoyment.
Oranda
The Oranda goldfish is a breed of goldfish that has a unique look. This breed has a head growth that covers its eyes, giving it a distinctive look and making it one of the most recognizable breeds. The head growth can range from small to large, depending on the variety of Oranda.
The color and pattern of Orandas can vary widely; they may be red, orange, black, white, calico, or tri-color. They are often referred to as “lionheads” because of their headgrowth, which gives them an appearance similar to a lion’s mane.
Orandas are typically hardy and easy to care for, and can thrive in a wide range of water temperatures. They have an average lifespan of up to 10 years, with proper care. They do best in an aquarium that is at least 20 gallons in size and with a sandy substrate so they can dig around and explore.
They should also have plenty of cover in their environment, such as rocks and plants. Orandas are active swimmers and need plenty of room to move around and explore.
Orandas tend to be peaceful fish and get along well with other breeds. However, if overcrowding occurs, they may become territorial and attack other fish. It’s best to keep Orandas in a school of at least four individuals of the same variety so they don’t feel threatened by other fish.
These unique and beautiful fish make an interesting addition to any aquarium. With the right care and environment, they can live long and happy life.
Black Moor Goldfish
The Black Moor Goldfish is a unique variety of goldfish with its signature velvety black body and protruding eyes. This particular breed has been popular since the Edo period in Japan, where it originated from. These fish have highly sought after for their attractive appearance and can be found in many aquariums and ponds.
The Black Moor Goldfish is easily recognizable by its black coloration and prominent eyes. Its body is shaped like an egg and can grow to be up to 6 inches long. It has long, flowing fins and a rounded tail. Its eyes are relatively large compared to other goldfish varieties, giving it an appealing look.
These goldfish have an average life expectancy of 8-10 years when kept in the proper conditions. It requires an aquarium with a good filtration system and plenty of oxygenation to ensure that it stays healthy and happy. They also enjoy plenty of plants and decorations in their environment to hide in, as they are a timid breed of fish.
Black Moor Goldfish are omnivores and will accept most types of food. They particularly enjoy live foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, or brine shrimp. A high-quality goldfish pellet or flake should also be offered as part of their diet. Regular water changes are important to keep the tank clean and avoid any water-related diseases.
Overall, the Black Moor Goldfish is an incredibly popular and beautiful fish that will bring life and beauty to any aquarium. With its unique looks and tranquil demeanor, this breed of goldfish can be a great addition to any fish tank.
Wakin
The Wakin goldfish is a long, slim-bodied fish that is often compared to a koi in shape. It has a long, slim tail and large fins, and its body is much deeper than it is wide. The Wakin is a popular variety of goldfish because of its unusual shape, and it is usually kept in ponds or aquariums.
These goldfish have a metallic orange-red color and have a black stripe running down the length of their bodies. They also have patches of yellow, white, and gray on their faces and fins. The average lifespan of a Wakin goldfish is between five and eight years, but with proper care and nutrition, they can live up to 10 years.
Wakins are hardy fish that can handle a wide range of temperatures, but should not be kept in temperatures below 55°F or above 70°F. They prefer to be kept in well-oxygenated tanks with plenty of hiding places and room to swim. Wakins are peaceful fish and should not be kept with aggressive or territorial species. It is important to keep these fish in groups of at least three, as they are social creatures that enjoy swimming in schools.
Wakins are omnivorous and should be fed a varied diet of freeze-dried or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small pieces of fish. Additionally, they can be fed flakes, pellets, or other sinking foods. Wakins will also eat some aquatic plants, but these should be kept to a minimum to avoid digestive issues.
Butterfly
The Butterfly goldfish is one of the most unique and distinct varieties, easily recognizable by its signature “butterfly” pattern on the fins. This variety can be traced back to Japan, where it was bred from an unusual-looking wild carp.
This goldfish has a robust body and short fins, which allows for a very active swimming style. Due to their lively personality, Butterfly goldfish are best kept in schools of four or more. They can reach a maximum size of about 8 inches.
Telescope
The Telescope Goldfish is one of the most recognizable goldfish varieties. As its name suggests, it has an eye-like shape, with two large eyes protruding from its head. Its body is slightly rounder than that of other types of goldfish, and its fins are slightly more exaggerated in size.
The Telescope Goldfish is also typically seen in a range of vibrant colors, including orange, white, red, black, and calico. Its eyes can vary from a solid color to multi-colored and have a distinctively bright sheen.
These goldfish can reach up to six inches in length and live for about seven years in ideal conditions. They are relatively hardy fish and can do well in a range of tank environments. However, it is important to keep their water clean and avoid overcrowding in order to ensure optimal health. While the Telescope Goldfish does not usually eat smaller tank mates, it can be prone to nipping at its fins.
Overall, the Telescope Goldfish is a beautiful fish that can make a stunning addition to any aquarium. With its eye-catching colors and fascinating body shape, it is sure to be a conversation starter!
Ranchu
Ranchu is a type of fancy goldfish with a single tail. They are most known for their characteristic egg-shaped body and hooded head. Unlike most other varieties of fancy goldfish, Ranchu has no dorsal fin, and instead the lower part of their body resembles a bubble. Ranchu comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, orange, red, yellow, and calico.
The Ranchu’s hooded head is its most distinctive feature, and the shape can vary between individuals. The head shape can be rounded or more flat, depending on the breed. They also have unique scales that give them an overall shiny appearance.
Ranchu is generally friendly and social fish and enjoys swimming in schools. They are quite hardy and can survive in different types of water conditions, making them ideal for novice fish owners. It’s important to note that Ranchu should not be kept with any other types of fish as they may become aggressive.
Overall, Ranchu is a popular choice for beginner fish keepers because of its hardiness, beautiful appearance, and pleasant personality. With proper care, these fish can live for several years and make a wonderful addition to any aquarium.
Sarasa Goldfish
Sarasa goldfish is a type of ornamental fish that has a unique color pattern that makes them stand out from other fish. They have black and white markings on their bodies with a wide variety of patterns. The head of the Sarasa goldfish is usually red or orange, while the body may be black, red, yellow, or white.
They can also have unique patterns of dots, stripes, and spots. Sarasa goldfish are known for their hardy nature and can survive in a wide range of water temperatures. They are also easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. They should be fed a diet of high-quality flakes or pellets designed specifically for goldfish.
Bubble Eye
The Bubble Eye goldfish is a unique and distinct type of goldfish. The defining feature of this fish is its two large, bubble-like sacks, or “bubbles,” which are found just below each eye. While some Bubble Eyes may have both bubbles the same size, others may have one larger than the other. These sacs are filled with fluid and can move around independently, giving the fish an interesting look.
Unlike other types of goldfish, the Bubble Eye is not an active swimmer. Instead, it tends to move in short bursts and is quite content with just floating in the water. Due to its lack of activity, it is best kept with other docile fish species. It should also be kept in a tank with plenty of hiding spots.
The Bubble Eye comes in a variety of colors including white, red, black, orange, and calico. This goldfish can grow to about five inches in length and has a lifespan of about 10 years.
Celestial Eye
Celestial Eye goldfish are known for their unique appearance, which features a protruding bubble-shaped eye on either side of the head. This gives the fish an “alien” look. The eyes are typically round, but some varieties may have pointed eyes.
Celestial Eyes come in a variety of colors, including black, white, red, orange, and calico. As with other types of goldfish, they should be kept in clean water and have plenty of space to swim.
Celestial Eyes are relatively easy to care for, although they can be prone to swim bladder issues due to their large eyes. These fish are generally peaceful and do well when kept in schools of four or more.