8 Types of Goldfish: Varieties and Care Guide

1. Common Goldfish

The common goldfish is pretty much the OG of the goldfish world. Think of it as the ancestor to all those fancy, frilly varieties you see nowadays. Originally bred in China from a duller, carp-like fish, these guys were selected for their bright orange or gold color. They're the ones you'll most likely see in ponds or larger aquariums because they're pretty tough and don't need super specialized care.

These fish have a long, sleek body shape, which makes them excellent swimmers. They can get surprisingly big, too – up to 10 to 12 inches is not uncommon if they have enough space and good food. Most people think goldfish stay small, but that's usually because they're kept in tanks that are way too small for them. A common goldfish can easily live for 10 to 15 years, and some even make it past 20 with good conditions.

Here's a quick rundown of what to expect:

• Body Shape: Long and streamlined, like a torpedo.
• Color: Typically bright orange or gold, but you can find them in red, white, red and black, or even blue.
• Size: Can reach 10-12 inches.
• Lifespan: 10-15 years is average, but can be much longer.
• Temperament: Generally peaceful and active.

When it comes to keeping them, remember they produce a fair amount of waste, so good filtration is a must. They're also cold-water fish, meaning they don't need a heater, but sudden temperature changes can stress them out. Keep their water clean, give them plenty of room, and they'll be happy campers.

These fish are often underestimated. Their hardiness and adaptability make them a great starting point for anyone interested in keeping fish, whether in a pond or a large aquarium. Just don't expect them to stay the size of a nickel forever!

2. Comet Goldfish

The Comet goldfish is a really popular type of goldfish, and for good reason. It’s basically a streamlined version of the common goldfish, developed in the United States. These guys are known for their long, sleek bodies and that distinctive, deeply forked tail that looks a bit like a comet's tail – hence the name!

Comets are pretty tough and can handle a variety of water conditions, which makes them a good choice if you're just starting out with goldfish. They do well in both aquariums and outdoor ponds. Because they're active swimmers and can get pretty big, they need plenty of space. Think at least 50 gallons for a single comet, and more if you plan on having a few.

These fish are known for their hardiness and adaptability. They come in a bunch of colors, often solid red, orange, white, or a mix of red and white. They're not picky eaters either, happily munching on flakes, pellets, and even some veggies.

Here's a quick rundown:

• Adult Size: Can reach up to 12-14 inches.
• Lifespan: With good care, they can live 20 years or even longer.
• Temperament: Active and peaceful, good with other similar goldfish.
• Tank/Pond Needs: Minimum 50-gallon tank for one, larger for more. Outdoor ponds are also a great option.

Because of their long fins and active nature, it's best to avoid sharp decorations in their tank. Smooth gravel or sand substrate is ideal, and make sure your filter intake is covered so their long fins don't get sucked in.

They're a lively addition to any pond or large aquarium, bringing a lot of movement and color.

3. Shubunkin Goldfish

The Shubunkin goldfish is a real looker, often called the "poor man's koi" because of its resemblance to the Japanese fish, but way more affordable. These guys are a type of calico goldfish, meaning they’ve got this cool, mottled pattern with a mix of colors. Think blue as the base, but then you’ll see splashes of red, orange, black, and sometimes even brown. Their scales often have a metallic sheen, which really makes them sparkle.

Shubunkins are known for being pretty hardy and are a great choice if you're thinking about a pond. They have a long, slim body, similar to a comet goldfish, but their fins are usually a bit longer and more flowing. You might hear about different types, like the London Shubunkin which looks more like a common goldfish with calico colors, the American Shubunkin with longer fins, or the Bristol Shubunkin with its distinctive, almost heart-shaped tail.

When it comes to care, they're not too fussy, but like all goldfish, they need plenty of space and clean water. A tank of at least 50 gallons is a good starting point, and if you're putting them in a pond, make sure it's well-established. They can grow quite large, often reaching 10 to 12 inches, so don't underestimate their size.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

• Adult Size: 9 to 18 inches
• Lifespan: 20+ years
• Color Pattern: Calico (multi-colored blotches and spots)
• Temperament: Peaceful and active
• Tank/Pond Suitability: Excellent for ponds and large aquariums

These fish are quite active swimmers and appreciate a good amount of open space to explore. Providing them with a varied diet will help maintain their vibrant colors and overall health. Just remember, the more space and better the water quality, the happier and healthier your Shubunkin will be.

If you're looking for a goldfish that's a bit more visually interesting than the standard common goldfish but still relatively easy to care for, the Shubunkin is definitely worth considering. They really do add a splash of color and movement to any aquatic setup, whether it's a pond or a large aquarium. Finding the right FairyBaby gate for your home can be just as rewarding as setting up a beautiful tank for these fish.

4. Sarasa Comet Goldfish

The Sarasa Comet goldfish is a real showstopper, basically a Comet goldfish with a very specific color pattern. Think bright white with bold splashes of red, often covering a good portion of their body and sometimes even extending onto their fins. They really do look like a painted goldfish, hence the nickname "painted goldfish" sometimes used for them. These guys are slim-bodied, just like their Comet cousins, and they have those long, single fins and a deeply forked tail that gives them that classic, flowing goldfish look. They can get pretty big, too, reaching up to 14 inches if they're happy and healthy.

Sarasa Comets are fantastic for outdoor ponds because their bright colors really pop against the natural backdrop. They're also quite hardy, making them a good choice for beginners who want a bit of flair in their aquatic setup. Just remember, like any goldfish, they need plenty of space to swim and grow. A good rule of thumb is at least 20 gallons for a single fish, and more if you plan on having tank mates. Keeping their water clean is super important, especially since they can be a bit messy eaters.

These fish are known for their energetic swimming and their striking red and white markings, making them a popular choice for both ponds and larger aquariums. They are a variant of the Comet goldfish, sharing its streamlined body and single fins.

Here's a quick look at what makes them stand out:

• Coloration: Predominantly white with vivid red markings.
• Body Type: Slim-bodied, similar to the Comet goldfish.
• Fins: Long, single fins with a deeply forked tail.
• Size: Can reach up to 14 inches in length.
• Habitat: Well-suited for both ponds and spacious aquariums.

If you're looking for a goldfish that's both hardy and visually stunning, the Sarasa Comet is definitely worth considering. They're a lively addition to any aquatic environment, and their distinctive colors are sure to catch your eye. Just make sure you have a good filtration system in place, as they do produce a fair amount of waste. Finding a good quality fish can sometimes be tricky, so it's always best to get them from a reputable source. You might need a sturdy pet gate if you have other pets that might be curious about your new fishy friends.

5. Tiger Shubunkin Goldfish

The Tiger Shubunkin is a variation of the standard Shubunkin, known for its striking coloration that often resembles a tiger's stripes. Unlike the more common blue-based Shubunkins, Tiger Shubunkins typically display a more intense mix of orange, brown, and black patterns against a lighter background. These fish are essentially a type of calico goldfish with a single tail, meaning they have the characteristic mottled appearance but without the double tail fins found in fancy varieties. They are quite hardy and can grow to be about 10-12 inches long, making them suitable for ponds as well as larger aquariums.

Their vibrant, dynamic coloring makes them a real eye-catcher in any aquatic setup.

When caring for Tiger Shubunkins, remember they are active swimmers and appreciate plenty of space. A good rule of thumb is at least 20 gallons for a single fish, with an additional 10 gallons for each extra fish. They do well in a variety of water conditions but thrive in clean, well-oxygenated water. Regular water changes are important to keep their environment healthy.

Here's a quick look at their typical traits:

• Size: Can reach 10-12 inches
• Lifespan: 10-15 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and active
• Diet: Omnivorous; readily accept goldfish flakes, pellets, and occasional live or frozen foods.

These fish are often compared to koi due to their patterned scales, but they are much more manageable in size and cost for the average aquarist. Their robust nature means they can handle cooler temperatures, making them a great choice for outdoor ponds during warmer months.

Feeding your Tiger Shubunkin should involve a balanced diet. High-quality goldfish pellets or flakes should form the base, supplemented with treats like brine shrimp or bloodworms a couple of times a week. Avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to water quality issues. You can find a variety of suitable foods at your local fish store.

6. Red & Black Goldfish

Red and black goldfish are quite striking, aren't they? They often have a base color of red or orange with distinct black markings. It's important to know that these black patches aren't always permanent. As the fish grows and matures, or even due to changes in its environment, those black spots can fade, shift, or even disappear entirely. This makes them a bit of a living art project!

These fish can come in various body shapes, but you'll often find them with the more rounded, fancy body type, similar to Fantails. This means they aren't the strongest swimmers and do best in a tank environment rather than a large, fast-flowing pond where they might get outcompeted for food or have trouble keeping up.

• Color Instability: Be prepared for color changes over time.
• Body Shape: Often have a rounded, fancy body type.
• Swimming Ability: Generally slower swimmers, requiring a calmer environment.
• Tank Mates: Best kept with other slow-moving fancy goldfish.

When setting up a tank for your red and black goldfish, think about smooth decorations. Their scales and fins can be delicate, and sharp objects could cause injury, especially if they're a bit clumsy swimmers.

7. Platinum White Comet Goldfish

The Platinum White Comet Goldfish is a really eye-catching variety of the comet goldfish. What makes it stand out is its pure white coloration, though sometimes you might notice a slight pinkish hue depending on the light. Like other comets, they have that classic long, sleek body and a single, deeply forked tail fin, which gives them a streamlined look and makes them pretty active swimmers. They’re generally hardy fish, which is great for beginners, but they do appreciate a bit of space to move around.

These fish are descendants of the common goldfish, selectively bred over time to achieve this striking white look. They're not a

8. Fantail Goldfish

The Fantail goldfish is a classic choice for many aquarium enthusiasts, and for good reason. They're known for their charming, egg-shaped bodies and those lovely, flowing double tails. You can find them in all sorts of colors, from bright oranges and reds to calico patterns with blues and blacks. They really do look like little swimming jewels.

Fantails are considered a beginner-friendly fancy goldfish variety. While they have those fancy fins, they're generally a bit hardier than some of the more delicate breeds. Still, they're not as robust as the common or comet goldfish, so they need a bit of extra attention.

Here's a quick rundown of what makes them special:

• Body Shape: Distinctive, plump, and rounded, almost like an egg.
• Fins: They sport a double tail and double anal fins, which give them their characteristic graceful movement. You'll also notice a high dorsal fin.
• Size: Typically, they grow to about 6 to 8 inches in length.
• Temperament: They're peaceful fish and do well in community tanks with other similarly sized fancy goldfish.

When it comes to care, Fantails do best in aquariums rather than ponds. They're not the strongest swimmers, so a strong current could be a problem for them. A good rule of thumb is to provide at least 20 gallons of water for the first Fantail, and then add another 10 gallons for each additional fish. Keeping the water clean is super important for these guys; they can be a bit sensitive to poor water quality. Regular water changes and a good filter will go a long way in keeping your Fantail happy and healthy. It's a good idea to check out some basic aquarium setup tips to get started right.

Fantail goldfish are a great way to get into the world of fancy goldfish. They have all the visual appeal without being overly difficult to care for, as long as you provide a suitable environment and keep their water clean. They're really rewarding to watch as they glide through the water.

9. Oranda Goldfish

The Oranda goldfish is a real showstopper in the goldfish world. What really sets them apart is that distinctive fleshy growth on their head, called a wen. It can look like a fluffy cap or even cover their whole face as they get older. These fish are a type of fancy goldfish, meaning they've been selectively bred for certain looks, and they definitely stand out. They have a rounded, somewhat chunky body and a lovely double tail, similar to the Fantail but with that amazing head growth.

Orandas come in a bunch of colors – you can find them in red, white, black, calico, and even combinations. Some have a wen that's a different color than their body, which is pretty neat.

When it comes to care, Orandas are a bit more delicate than your common goldfish. That wen can be prone to infections if the water quality isn't top-notch, so keeping the tank clean is super important. You'll want a tank that's at least 30 gallons for one Oranda, and more if you plan on having a few. They aren't the strongest swimmers because of their body shape and that big wen, so avoid strong currents in the tank.

Here’s a quick look at what they need:

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for the first fish, plus 10-15 gallons for each additional Oranda.
• Water Quality: Keep it clean! Regular water changes are a must. Aim for stable temperatures, generally between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
• Diet: A good quality goldfish flake or pellet food, supplemented with occasional treats like blanched peas or brine shrimp. Avoid overfeeding, especially if their wen is very large.
• Tank Mates: Best kept with other Orandas or similarly sized, gentle fancy goldfish. Avoid housing them with fast, active fish that might outcompete them for food or nip at their fins.

Taking care of the wen is a big part of owning an Oranda. If it gets too overgrown or looks unhealthy, it's best to consult a fish vet. Trying to trim it yourself can cause serious harm, especially to their eyes.

Orandas are generally peaceful and can be quite interactive with their owners, often coming to the front of the tank when they see you. They really do add a lot of personality and beauty to an aquarium. If you're looking for a goldfish with a bit of flair and are prepared for the specific care they need, the Oranda is a fantastic choice. You can find some really beautiful specimens at your local fish store or online, but always check out fish care tips before you buy.

10. Ryukin Goldfish

The Ryukin goldfish is a really neat fancy variety that originally comes from Japan. What makes them stand out is their body shape – they've got this distinct high back and these flowing double tail fins. You can find them in all sorts of colors, and their scales often have a nice metallic sheen. They're not the strongest swimmers, so a smaller tank, maybe around 10 gallons per fish, is usually fine. This means they don't need as much space as some of the more active goldfish types.

Ryukins are pretty hardy for a fancy breed, making them a good choice if you're looking to try something a bit more specialized than a common goldfish. They can even do well in outdoor ponds if the conditions are right, alongside other hardy types like comets. Just make sure the pond is well looked after.

When it comes to care, they need clean water and a good diet to stay healthy. Because they aren't the best swimmers, you need to be mindful of their food intake to make sure they get enough calories without overeating. They're quite popular with people who keep goldfish because they look so striking and have a pleasant personality. With the right care, these fish can live for quite a few years.

Here’s a quick look at some of their traits:

• Body Shape: Short and deep with a noticeable hump behind the head.
• Fins: Possess a double tail fin and a high dorsal fin.
• Colors: Available in a wide range, including solid reds, whites, blacks, and calico patterns.
• Swimming Ability: Generally poor swimmers due to their body shape.

Ryukin goldfish are a beautiful addition to a well-maintained aquarium or pond. Their unique body shape and vibrant colors make them a favorite among many goldfish enthusiasts. Proper feeding and clean water are key to keeping them healthy and happy for years to come.

If you're thinking about getting a Ryukin, it's a good idea to look into their specific needs to make sure you can provide the best environment for them. Finding good quality fish is also important, and you might want to check out specialty fish stores that focus on aquatic life.

Wrapping Up Your Goldfish Journey

So, there you have it – a look at just some of the many types of goldfish out there. From the speedy comets to the fancy-tailed varieties, it's pretty amazing how much diversity there is in these popular fish. Remember, no matter which kind catches your eye, giving them plenty of space, clean water, and the right tank mates is key. It might seem like a lot at first, but with a little research and care, you can enjoy these colorful swimmers for a long time. Happy fish keeping!