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Freshwater fishCalico Shubunkin Goldfish
Calico Shubunkin Goldfish
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The shubunkin goldfish is a variation of the sarassa comet and is now bred in the USA primarily for ponds. Shubunkin goldfish are red, white, and black in color and need a lot of swimming room. These goldfish look great viewed from the side in a large aquarium or from above in an outdoor pond.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Carassius auratus |
| Origin | Japan (now bred in the USA) |
| Care Level | Very easy, extremely hardy |
| Temperament | Peaceful, very active |
| Adult Size | Up to 10" or more in ponds |
| Lifespan | 10–15 years; 20+ years in ponds |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Water Temperature | 50–75°F (tolerates cold winters in ponds) |
| pH | 7.0–8.0 |
| Minimum Tank Size | Pond preferred, or at least 40 gallons for one |
| Shipping Size | Medium: approx. 3–4" · Large: approx. 5–6" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: Shubunkins are fast, active swimmers that grow big and produce a lot of waste. An outdoor pond is ideal; indoors, give them a large tank (40 gallons or more) with a strong filter, and change 25–30% of the water every week.
Feeding: Feed small amounts once or twice a day, only as much as they eat in about two minutes. Mix a quality sinking pellet or flake with frozen or live foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms, plus blanched peas or other vegetables now and then.
Tankmates: Keep them with other single-tail goldfish like comets and shubunkins, or with koi in a pond. Avoid slow fancy goldfish, which can't compete for food, and tropical fish, which need warmer water.
Ponds: This is where they shine. They handle cold winters as long as part of the pond stays deep enough not to freeze solid. Stop feeding when the water drops below about 50°F.
Good to know: Shubunkins grow quickly, so plan for a pond or a large tank from the start.
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