Shubunkin Goldfish Care Guide: Tank Setup, Feeding, Size & Tips
Shubunkin goldfish are colorful, hardy, and fast-swimming fish that make a great addition to larger aquariums and outdoor ponds. Known for their speckled calico patterns and single tails, they are often compared to koi in appearance but are easier to care for and more affordable.
If you’re looking for an active, vibrant goldfish that thrives in groups, this guide will show you how to care for a Shubunkin properly.
Quick Species Profile
| Feature | Details |
| Scientific Name | Carassius auratus (Shubunkin) |
| Common Name | Shubunkin Goldfish |
| Size | 8–12 inches |
| Lifespan | 10–15 years (up to 20 in ponds) |
| Origin | Japan (bred from common goldfish) |
| Temperament | Peaceful, active swimmers |
| Tank Size | 30+ gallons (more for groups) |
| Temperature | 65–75°F |
| pH Range | 6.5–7.5 |
What Are Shubunkin Goldfish?
Shubunkins are a type of single-tailed fancy goldfish known for their unique calico coloration. Their scales are nacreous—an attractive mix of transparent and matte—showcasing blue, orange, black, red, and white speckles. They have a slim body and a long flowing tail that adds to their elegance.
There are three common types:
- London Shubunkin – Short, rounded fins
- Bristol Shubunkin – Broad, heart-shaped tail fins
- American Shubunkin – Long, deeply forked tail; most common in pet stores
Lifespan
With proper care, Shubunkins can live 10–15 years in tanks and over 20 years in ponds. Their hardy nature makes them excellent for beginners who maintain stable, clean environments.
Shubunkin Goldfish Size
These goldfish grow up to 8–12 inches in aquariums and may reach 14 inches in spacious ponds. Ensure the tank or pond allows room for their active swimming style and quick growth.
Tank Size & Setup
Start with at least a 30-gallon tank for one Shubunkin, adding 15–20 gallons per additional fish. They are fast swimmers and do best in wide, horizontal tanks or outdoor ponds.
Use a strong filter, as they produce significant waste. Provide smooth gravel or sand, open swimming space, and live or silk plants. Avoid sharp decor that may damage their fins.
Ideal decorations and plants:
- Hardy plants: hornwort, elodea
- Smooth rocks or driftwood
- Air stones for oxygenation
Water Parameters
Shubunkins tolerate a range of freshwater conditions but prefer consistency:
- Temperature: 65–75°F
- pH: 6.5–7.5
- Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: <40 ppm
Perform weekly water changes of 25–50% and regularly test parameters.
Diet & Feeding
Shubunkin goldfish are omnivorous. Offer a varied diet of:
- High-quality flakes or pellets
- Blanched veggies (peas, lettuce, spinach)
- Frozen or live treats (bloodworms, brine shrimp)
Feed 1–2 times daily. Avoid overfeeding, which can cause water quality issues and digestive problems.
Behavior & Tank Mates
Shubunkins are peaceful, social, and very active. They enjoy swimming in groups and are less prone to injury due to their stronger bodies compared to fancy types.
Good tank mates include:
- Other single-tailed goldfish (e.g., commons, comets)
- White cloud mountain minnows
- Weather loaches
Avoid pairing with slow fancy goldfish, tropical species, or aggressive fish.
Common Health Issues
Though hardy, Shubunkins may face issues like:
- Ich
- Fin rot
- Ammonia burns
Maintain water quality, avoid sharp decorations, and quarantine new fish to reduce health risks.
Freshwater Fish Diseases: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Guide
Can Shubunkins Live in Ponds?
Yes! Shubunkins are ideal for ponds. They tolerate cool temperatures and grow large in outdoor setups. Provide depth for wintering, floating plants for cover, and predator protection.
Breeding Shubunkin Goldfish
Males develop breeding tubercles during spawning season. When ready, they chase females to encourage egg laying on plants or mops.
Separate adults after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs. Feed fry with baby brine shrimp or liquid fry food.
FAQ’s
1. How big do Shubunkin goldfish get?
Shubunkins can grow up to 12 inches long, especially in outdoor ponds with enough space.
2. What size tank does a Shubunkin goldfish need?
A single Shubunkin needs at least a 20–30 gallon tank, with an extra 10 gallons per additional fish.
3. Can Shubunkin goldfish live with other fish?
Yes, they are peaceful and do well with other non-aggressive, cold-water fish like Comets or Fantails.
4. What do Shubunkin goldfish eat?
They eat flakes, pellets, and vegetables like peas and lettuce. A varied diet keeps them healthy.
5. Do Shubunkin goldfish need a heater?
No, they are cold-water fish and thrive in temperatures between 60–75°F without a heater.
Final Thoughts
Shubunkin goldfish are a colorful, energetic alternative to koi and a great choice for anyone seeking a hardy, visually striking fish. With proper care, they bring motion and color to both indoor aquariums and backyard ponds.
