Pearlscale Goldfish

Oversized raised scales on fish give the fish a pearly sheen, so whether on an angelfish or a fancy goldfish, this variation is called "Pearlscale." Pearlscale Goldfish also have several other bred qualities that determine the quality of the fish. These fancy goldfish have a minimal dorsal fin and a short, round body, earning them other common names, including the golf ball goldfish and the ping pong goldfish.

Quick Facts

Care Guide

Tank setup: Pearlscales produce a lot of waste, so give them plenty of room and a strong filter.

Feeding: Feed small amounts of a quality sinking pellet or flake once or twice a day, only as much as they eat in a couple of minutes. Sinking foods are easier for them to find than floating ones. They also enjoy frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.

Tankmates: Keep them with other fancy goldfish of similar size and speed. Avoid fast single-tail goldfish like comets and shubunkins, which will outcompete them for food. Also avoid tropical fish, which need warmer water, and fin-nippers.

Ponds: Pearlscales can live in ponds in mild climates, but they are less cold-hardy than comets and shubunkins. Bring them indoors where winters are harsh, and keep them away from fast, aggressive pond fish.

Good to know: Their round bodies make them prone to buoyancy (swim bladder) problems, so avoid overfeeding and soak dry foods before feeding. A lost scale can grow back, but usually without the raised pearl.