SHUBUNKIN GOLDFISH (Carassius Auratus) LRG 5-6 Inches
Full Description
Here is a complete care guide for the Shubunkin Goldfish (Carassius auratus – Shubunkin variety), a hardy and beautiful variety of single-tailed goldfish known for its colorful, speckled pattern.
SHUBUNKIN GOLDFISH CARE GUIDE
Quick Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Carassius auratus |
| Common Name | Shubunkin Goldfish |
| Type | Single-tailed, fast-swimming goldfish |
| Adult Size | 10–12 in (25–30 cm), can reach 14+ in ponds |
| Lifespan | 10–20 years (some live even longer) |
| Temperament | Peaceful, active, social |
| Ideal For | Beginners, aquariums, and outdoor ponds |
TANK OR POND SETUP
Minimum Tank Size
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Tank: Minimum 30 gallons for one
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Add 15–20 gallons per additional Shubunkin
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Pond: Excellent choice — they tolerate seasonal temperature changes
Water Parameters
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 65–75°F (18–24°C) |
| pH | 6.5–8.0 |
| Ammonia/Nitrite | 0 ppm |
| Nitrate | < 40 ppm |
| Hardness | Moderate |
✅ Shubunkins are coldwater goldfish, but can live in room-temp aquariums year-round.
Filtration & Aeration
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Use a strong filter—Shubunkins are big waste producers
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Recommend canister filters or large HOB filters
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Add an air stone or sponge filter for oxygenation
Substrate & Décor
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Smooth gravel or sand
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Provide open swimming space
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Use sturdy plants (e.g., Anubias, hornwort) or artificial plants
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Decorations should have no sharp edges to avoid fin tears
️ FEEDING
Diet: Omnivore
| Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Staple | High-quality goldfish pellets or flakes |
| Veggies | Blanched peas (shelled), spinach, zucchini |
| Protein treats | Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia (occasional) |
Feed 2x per day, only as much as they can eat in 2–3 minutes.
TANKMATES
| Compatible | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Comet goldfish, Common goldfish | Fancy goldfish (too slow) |
| White Cloud Mountain Minnows | Tropical or aggressive fish |
| Dojo loaches (coolwater) | Fin-nippers (barbs, cichlids, etc.) |
Shubunkins are active swimmers and may outcompete slower goldfish for food.
MAINTENANCE
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Water changes: 25–50% weekly
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Test ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH weekly
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Vacuum gravel or sand to remove waste
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Rinse filter media in tank water monthly
BREEDING
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Shubunkins are egg scatterers
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Require cool-down and warming period to trigger spawning
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Males chase females, eggs stick to surfaces
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Remove eggs or parents will eat them
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Raise fry separately with powdered food
⚠️ COMMON HEALTH ISSUES
| Issue | Symptoms | Cause |
|---|---|---|
| Fin rot | Frayed or decaying fins | Dirty water or injury |
| Ich | White spots, rubbing | Parasite from poor conditions |
| Swim bladder | Trouble swimming or floating | Poor diet, gulping air |
| Ammonia burn | Red gills, gasping | Poor filtration/overstocking |
✅ KEY TIPS FOR SUCCESS
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Never keep in a bowl — they need space and filtration
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Use dechlorinated water
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Give them plenty of swimming room
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Use a test kit to monitor water quality
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Avoid mixing with slow or delicate fancy goldfish
SUMMARY
Shubunkin Goldfish are hardy, colorful, and active fish perfect for beginners. With proper care, they can live for decades and bring a splash of color and energy to tanks or ponds. Just be sure to give them plenty of space, good filtration, and a balanced diet.