The Shubunkin goldfish is a freshwater fish that is popular among both amateur and professional aquarists. The fish is known for its bright colors and patterns, which can include red, blue, orange, black, and white. The Shubunkin goldfish is a member of the carp family and is closely related to the common goldfish.
Shubunkins are a hybrid breed of goldfish that resulted from the crossbreeding of regular goldfish with calico telescope eye goldfish. A lovely goldfish with nacreous (mother-of-pearl) coloring in various hues of orange/gold, red, white, silver, blue, and black is the end result.
The Shubunkin goldfish quickly became a popular aquarium fish due to its beauty and relatively easy-care requirements. In the wild, Shubunkin goldfish can be found in rivers and ponds in Asia. Shubunkin is a hardy fish and can withstand a wide range of water conditions, which makes it an ideal candidate for both beginner and experienced aquarists.
Shubunkin Goldfish - Origin
All goldfish may be traced back more than 1,000 years to a wild carp species that still survive today in Asia, particularly Siberia.
Shubunkins appear to be exactly like ordinary goldfish and comet goldfish in terms of appearance. They were originally developed in Japan, where they were crossbred between the calico telescope eye goldfish, comet goldfish, and the general goldfish. They have streamlined bodies with well-developed and even finnage.
The Prussian carp used to be a popular fish in the region, known locally as "chi." These wild fish are drab silver-gray in color, but an odd genetic quirk occasionally results in a brightly colored orange, yellow, or red variant. These colorful fish were snatched from the lake and used by Buddhist monks in ornamental fish ponds.
The fish thrived in captivity, and their colors became more attractive, which enthralled early fish keepers. Soon, more and more color variants and forms were generated through crossbreeding, and goldfish were traded from China to Japan by the 14th century. Goldfish arrived in Europe during the 1600s and were introduced to the United States by the 1800s.
Quick Facts About Shubunkin Goldfish
Shubunkin Goldfish - Appearance
Shubunkins have narrow heads and lengthy, broad bodies that taper to deeply forked tails. The fins are upright; the back of the dorsal is somewhat concave.
Shubunkins are extremely colorful fish that are loved for their bright, reflective scales. However, it's the color of the fish that makes them so popular. Shubunkins are typically known as calico, which means they have a mishmash of several hues including: Red, Orange, Black, Brown, Gold, White, Purple, Gray, Yellow
To be a true Shubunkin, the base color must be blue. Blue is uncommon in goldfish, so the more blue a fish has, the greater its value and desirability.
Shubunkins vary considerably from one another. So, if you get one of these incredible creatures, you'll be certain that it's a one-of-a-kind!
Typical Behavior & Temperament
The Shubunkin is not an aggressive fish in any way. They're a very happy and serene species of fish! You may see them swimming in and out of their tank décor when they're not only lounging about the aquarium.
They can swim rapidly, unlike other goldfish. They will be able to compete with other fish during feeding time since they have the ability to swim rapidly. They make excellent pets for kids since they are very energetic and active swimmers. These fish will give your little one something to joyfully watch.
Shubunkin Goldfish Varieties
Most Shubunkins have a calico appearance with a mix of colors like black, blue, orange, red, white, and yellow. However, some breeders have developed varieties that emphasize certain colors.
There are three main varieties of the Shubunkin Goldfish:
Bristol: They have a distinct tail and a thin body. They also have the greatest and most prominent fins of the three species.
- With age, they acquire a deeper black coloration.
- A drooping tail in a Bristol shubunkin is considered a defect of the fish.
- Shubunkins should include seven different colors, including black.
- In Japan, the Bristol Shubunkins are known as sierironisiki, owing to their fan-shaped tail.
London: They have bodies that are robust and short, with rounded finnage that resembles common goldfish.
American: The tail of the American Shubunkin is distinct from that of its siblings. They have considerably deeper tail forks than the other two breeds. It's regarded as the original Shubunkin variety and is frequently referred to as the Japanese Shubunkin.
Shubunkin Goldfish - Coloration
The color of these fish is a significant component in making them so fascinating. There are no two fish with identical patterns. Color changes are quite typical among Shubunkin as they grow older. So be prepared if your fish's color changes later on, especially if you begin with a younger fish.
On the basis of coloration Shubunkins are classified into the following types:
- Sanke Gold Shubunkins: They have a brilliant white base with vivid red and black highlights. They are costly due to their rare design and color.
Calico Shubunkin: With patches of red, black, and white, these goldfish looks like calico-colored Comet goldfish. They usually have some glistening scales among mostly non-shiny ones.
Imperial Shubunkins: They're all bright red in color. Some of them have glossy scales also.
Midnight Shubunkins: They are mostly black, with a little of white. The markings on Black Opal Shubunkin goldfish are quite similar, with very deep blacks.
Ghost Bristol Shubunkins: They're also known as "pinkies," and they have no metallic scales or pink gills and are entirely white matt. The majority of them have button eyes. They also have a heart-shaped tail like Bristol.
Sky Blue Shubunkins: They have no red or little black markings, and the base is matted and sprinkled with metallic scales. They may have pink gills sometimes. They appear almost iridescent because of their distinct hues. This color scheme might be tough to discover and pricey to obtain.
Keeping Your Shubunkin Goldfish Healthy
These fish can live for 15 years or more when properly cared for! However, it is not so easy to achieve this in home aquariums. The water conditions in your aquarium are critical to the health and longevity of your goldfish. So you will have to refill their tank on a regular basis.
Every other week, 25% of water change is suggested to keep the aquarium clean enough for them. It will also assist your fish from getting parasites and germs. The most prevalent illness that affects them is Goldfish Ich, a parasite. This parasite appears as white spots on the fish. Fortunately, this illness is readily treatable with tank additives.
Shubunkin Goldfish Diseases & Common Illness
Shubunkin is a strong fish that do not have many health problems naturally. If sickness does develop, it is likely due to external circumstances. Ensure that there is plenty of dissolved oxygen, the temperature and pH are within acceptable limits, that water changes are done on a weekly basis, and that pollutants like ammonia are kept to an absolute minimum.
Shubunkins can develop fin rot and Swim bladder issues, however, these are generally caused by care factors such as water quality, improper nutrition, or excessively cold or warm water. Occasionally, it might be due to a bacterial or parasitic infection that was brought in from the outside by way of a bird landing in your pond or runoff from agricultural fields. Shubunkins are susceptible to a variety of illnesses, especially if they have been reared on overcrowded fish farms.
Shubunkin Goldfish - Feeding
Wild, captive, fancy or common goldfish are omnivores. They like everything from plants to invertebrates to leftovers wedged in the substrate. It's simple to offer them food, even for novices.
It's a good idea to start with some basic commercial food, such as Omega One Pellets, whether you have a tank or a pond. Just make sure the quantity of food is kept under control since they will eat until they pop. You should offer food that will be eaten in two minutes or less, which is enough.
To support your fish with the energy they need to swim, add high-quality proteins. You may choose between fresh, frozen, and freeze-dried varieties, so your Shubunkins have a wide selection. The following are some of the most popular ones:
Also, make sure to include plenty of nutritious greens in your pond or aquarium since you don't want to keep replanting it.
Shubunkins adore nibbling on fruits and veggies. Your offerings should be peeled and blanched, but the following are some of the goldfish's favorite foods:
Shubunkin Goldfish - Breeding
To breed your Shubunkin, you'll need to replicate ideal circumstances. These fish mate in the warm weather. However, if you keep a warmer tank, the Shubunkin does not distinguish between breeding season and everyday life. It is important to keep a separate breeding tank to increase the chances of your fish successfully spawning.
To begin, slowly lower the temperature to a chilly 60°-62° F before commencing the breeding process. Continue to slowly raise the temperature by 2°-3° each day until you reach a temperature of 72° F. Once you've reached that temperature, your fish should be able to reproduce. The temperature change will trick their system into thinking there's been a seasonal shift, prompting it to mate.
Increase the protein intake during breeding, which should be at least 30% of an adult's daily calorie requirement, and feed several times a day to encourage females to produce and drop eggs that can then be fertilized by males.
During this feeding period, you'll want to do 20-25% partial water changes daily to prevent any uneaten food from decaying and polluting the water. You'll also want to have a variety of both submerged and floating plants since adult Shubunkins will use these as breeding habitats for both defensive cover from predators and a natural surface to lay eggs on.
Shubunkins can mate if there are five or more individuals, but they prefer larger clusters as social creatures. When it comes to breeding, you'll notice males pursuing females non-aggressively and the colors of both sexes becoming more intense as hormone production increases.
Males will chase the females around until they are pushed into the plants, at which point they lay their eggs. The plants are essential because they allow the females to attach their eggs to them. You must remove the adults soon after laying eggs. If not, they'll consume any eggs they can get their hands on. In around 7 days, these eggs will hatch.
Shubunkin Goldfish Care
Shubunkin Goldfish care is rather uncomplicated since they are resilient. They do well in captivity and can flourish under conditions that other fish cannot tolerate. You'll also need a decent filtration system for their aquarium. They're a rather messy species, so keeping their water clean is critical. Other than that, a low to moderate circulation is ideal.
You must remain committed to giving the best care possible, given your current circumstances. To assist you in this endeavor, below are some must-know care guidelines:
Shubunkin Goldfish - Ideal Tank Size
You're going to encounter a lot of conflicting information about the best Shubunkin Goldfish tank size. The fact is that these fish can adjust to smaller living spaces. They do, however, prefer larger ones. It is always better not to keep more than 1-2 fish in each tank. Overcrowding can be quite detrimental and dirty up a tank much faster than normal.
Some aquarists will tell you that your tank should be at least 15-20 gallons, and they're correct in a way. Although this tank size is adequate to maintain a single Shubunkin alive, you can do better. Instead, we recommend that you keep these fish in 75-gallon tanks if at all feasible. A larger swimming area for the fish is crucial for their health and general happiness.
Use an outdoor pond to create the finest possible environment for your goldfish. Shubunkin Goldfish enjoy a spacious living area.
Shubunkin Goldfish - Ideal Water Parameters
Shubunkins, like other goldfishes, thrive in colder water than tropical fish do. They prefer to reside in well-oxygenated water with a neutral pH level.
Shubunkins are an interesting species since they can survive a few degrees above freezing temperature. That's why they're such a great option for ponds. Heaters are recommended to avoid those harsh temperatures, however, if a temperature drop is gradual and amounts to only a few degrees every day, they will not be harmed.
Here are some water conditions that you should strive to maintain throughout your fish's existence.
Water temperature: Ideal water temperature is 65°F to 72°F |
pH levels: 6.0 to 8.0 is the ideal range |
Water hardness: Not an essential concern since they're not as sensitive as other fish species. Though 5 to 19 dGH is the ideal range. |
Water filtration: Filtration is a must in all fish tanks, and your Shubunkin Goldfish tank should be no exception. |
Shubunkin Goldfish - Aquarium Type
Choose an aquarium with the largest surface area possible. The smaller the surface area of an aquarium, the more likely it is that shubunkin fish will suffer from oxygen deprivation.
Because of the larger surface area, more water will contact the air right away and promote more oxygen from the air and CO2 from tank water exchange. You may always add an oxygen pump if you want one with a smaller surface.
How To Set Up Shubunkin Fish Tank
Set up the tank before your Shubunkin moves into its new home. Make sure you have a clean aquarium with the proper water parameters and temperature for your fish to thrive in, and it'll be simpler to alter later.
Follow these seven steps to set up your Shubunkin Goldfish's fish tank.
Decorating the Shubunkin Pond or Tank
The deepest area of the pond should be at least 3 feet to provide for hiding and overwintering. Shubunkins don't do well in direct light, so make sure to provide them with hiding places such as PVC pipes, fish shelters, and plants. Gravel or similar material is recommended for the pond floor, as Shubunkins have been observed to root about and create turbidity if small-grained substrates like sand or silt are utilized.
The most essential component of any tank or pond is a high-quality biological filtering system. Shubunkins can generate a lot of waste, which will quickly raise ammonia and nitrate levels if you don't have filtration. The system should be able to cycle the entire tank or pond.
It's also useful to have some water movement. The outlet of the filtration system will generally be enough. However, you may add air stones to keep oxygen levels high.
Shubunkins, on the other hand, aren't picky about decorations. To prevent a cloud from forming in the tank water, use medium-sized gravel. Scavenging will cause the sands to seep into the tank. Gravels allow your Shubunkins to search for missed food without disturbing the clarity of the water. You can also add plants to create a natural ecosystem.
Shubunkins are notorious for uprooting live plants. They can still be utilized, but you'll need to anchor them down firmly. To keep Shubunkins from uprooting aquatic plants while they explore and dig about, you can use weighted pots or metal washers to weigh them down if their root systems aren't well-developed. You may also surround plant roots with large rocks to prevent them from being destroyed or eaten. Shubunkins, like many other goldfish types, are indiscriminate eaters and will most likely consume plants. So when adding plants to and around your pond, be sure to do research.
If you want to add some greenery to your Shubunkin's diet, these hardy plants will thrive:
If you wish, You can add silk and artificial plants as well for decorating the pond. But keep in mind that these don't serve any purpose other than being aesthetically pleasing. Also, make sure that its edges are not sharp to avoid hurting your fish.
Smaller rocks and driftwood are fine but don't be excessive. The main decor should be kept to a minimum. Shubunkins want an open swimming area above all else.
Shubunkin Goldfish Maximum Lifespan & Size
Shubunkins mature at two years old when shubunkin goldfish size reaches its maximum of 18 inches long. They may reach a maximum length of 10 inches in an aquarium, depending on the size of the tank and the number of other fish. within their first year they can grow up to a foot in length, But it depends on whether they're kept in a tank or a pond and the size of each.
Shubunkins can live up to 30 years, although 15-20 years in a pond and 10 years in an aquarium are considered average. Water quality, genetics, temperature, feeding frequency, and overall diet all play a part in determining the fish's growth rate.
Shubunkin Goldfish Tank Mates
Shubunkins are usually a peaceful breed of fish. They just have no manners at mealtimes. So, while they won't bother other fish during the day, they will push slower fish out of the way to obtain food.
You need to pair them with quick swimmers!
Shubunkin Goldfish - Incompatible Species
You should avoid larger, more aggressive tankmates as you would expect. Shubunkins are feared by cichlids and tiger barbs, who see them as potential food. If you want to combine them, be careful to keep the goldfish large enough so that it may defend itself against these aggressors.
When combining Shubunkins with invertebrates, be cautious.
Freshwater shrimp, such as Amanos, can survive on their own, but the smaller forms may end up on the menu. So you'll want to exercise your judgment while choosing the right tankmates.
FAQ:
How Much Do Shubunkin Goldfish Cost?
When it comes to price, the Shubunkin Goldfish is not the most costly goldfish. It's very commonly available and may be found in almost any pet shop. Shubunkins are a highly affordable fish, with prices ranging from a few dollars.
The most expensive component of keeping these fish is the gear needed to get their aquarium up and running. The Shubunkin, on the other hand, requires little maintenance and has minimal recurring costs outside of food when everything is set up.
Are Shubunkin Goldfish Good Tank Mates?
One of the most common concerns when introducing new fish to a tank is whether or not they will get along with the existing ones. Well, you don't have to be concerned about the Shubunkin. These fish are bred to be very social and friendly in nature.
As long as you pair them with other goldfish or other fast-swimming fish that aren't aggressive, they will get along swimmingly! Just make sure your tank is large enough for all of the inhabitants.
They are friendly creatures that get along well with other fish. These are fantastic swimmers to keep as part of a group or ecosystem since they aren't aggressive. They're frequently seen swimming in groups with their tank mates. They are not only social. Shubunkins are highly inquisitive fish who enjoy exploring their surroundings and dragging along a buddy. There are few fish that are as cheerful as this one.
Just avoid placing them in a tank with sluggish-swimming species. They'll consume all of the food and prevent your other fish from getting adequate nutrients throughout feeding time.
What to Feed Your Shubunkin Goldfish?
You'll want to make sure your Shubunkin gets the best nutrition when it comes to mealtime. For best results, we recommend feeding them a high-quality pellet or flake as a foundation. Because they are fast enough to compete with everyone else in the tank, you don't need to feed them sinking pellets all the time.
Tetra Fin Goldfish Flakes are an excellent option for the Shubunkin, as they provide all the nutrients a growing fish needs. The key nutrients in these flakes are a good deal for your Shubunkin, including all of the vitamins and minerals it needs to live a long and happy life without breaking the bank.
Not only that, but their blend won't cloud your tank, so you can enjoy seeing them eat. As your fish matures, you can start to supplement its diet with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms.
Live plants should be kept within the ecosystem. They'll also occasionally eat them.
Goldfish succumb to poor feeding, overfeeding, and/or incorrect portion sizes – all of which may be readily avoided with adequate knowledge.
Are Shubunkin Goldfish Suitable For Your Aquarium?
Shubunkin is excellent for almost any aquarium, as long as they aren't mixed with an aggressive fish species. They're bright, sociable fish that are gorgeous to look at and entertaining to watch.
They're also great for beginners. They don't require a lot of maintenance and are quite affordable. They're also ideal for novice fish keepers. Furthermore, they look fantastic in your tank! The cost involved in keeping these fish is also very minimal.
Should You Quarantine New Shubunkin?
Anytime you get a fresh fish from the store, whether it's a shubunkin or not, quarantine it in a separate tank for a few days to check its health and perform any needed therapies. Overall, Shubunkins don't require much to be healthy. As long as you provide your Shubunkins with adequate water quality and a nutritious diet, they should live a long and happy life!
What Size Aquarium Do Shubunkin Goldfish Need?
The minimum tank capacity for shubunkin goldfish is 75 gallons. Because these fish develop quickly, the larger the tank, the better. A larger tank will give your fish more room to grow and swim, and will also help to maintain water quality.
How Many Shubunkin Goldfish Can Be Kept Per Gallon?
Make sure to put only 1-2 fish per 75 gallons in your tank, as overcrowding can be harmful. Tank size and filtration quality can help you determine how many fish your tank can support.
How to Identify Male and Female Shubunkin Goldfish?
Males and females cannot be distinguished at a young age. Males are slightly smaller and thinner than females, but they are hard to spot.
It's difficult to tell them apart until they're old enough to breed, which is why you want the bigger fish in the first place. You'll have to wait for breeding season and maturity to roll around before being able to identify them.
Males develop breeding tubercles on their heads and gill covers during the reproductive period. These are white spines that emerge.
The eggs develop inside the females, resulting in rounder, fatter bellies. The larger your Shubunkins are, the more distinct these characteristics become.
How Much Do Shubunkin Goldfish Cost?
Shubunkins are one of the most affordable varieties of goldfish. They cost anywhere from $5 to $100 per fish, depending on their size and hue. As per the rule of thumb, the more colorful the fish, the pricier it is.
How Often Should I Change the Water in My Shubunkin Goldfish Tank? (H3)
You should do a partial water change of 20-25% every week to maintain optimal water quality for your Shubunkins.
Where Can I Buy a Shubunkin Goldfish?
A Shubunkin can be bought from almost any fish vendor. We suggest visiting a store that specializes in fish since they'll be able to provide you with greater information on care and nutrition.
How Much and How Often to Feed?
Goldfish require two feedings each day, with as much food as they can consume for two minutes each feeding. For your everyday standby meal, pellets or flakes are the way to go. They should also be given a treat once in a while in the form of live or frozen food. Anything that isn't consumed will pollute the water and endanger your fish.
You may also give them some fresh veggies from your kitchens, such as spinach, lettuce, or cucumber, but blanch and peel them first.
As for how often to feed them, goldfish can go without food for a day or two without any problems. In fact, it's good to fast them every once in a while to give their digestive system a break. Just make sure not to overdo it, as extended fasting can lead to health problems.
Final Thoughts
Looking to add some color and personality to your aquarium? Look no further than the shubunkin goldfish! These beautiful fish are easy to care for and relatively affordable, making them a great addition to any home aquarium.When it comes to tank size, water quality, and feeding, there are a few things you should know in order to keep your fish healthy and happy.
Some key things to remember include maintaining a minimum tank size of 75 gallons, only putting 1-2 fish per 75 gallons in your tank, and providing regular water changes and nutritious food. With proper care, your Shubunkins can live up to 18 years and produce some gorgeous offspring. If you're ready to add these beautiful fish to your aquarium, be sure to stop by a local fish supplier today!
