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Types of Goldfish
When people talk about home aquariums, the first fish that pops in the mind is goldfish. It is the one torpedo-shaped orange fish that almost everyone wanted to win at the fair when they were kids.
While goldfish are so common, most people don’t realize that you can find different types or species of them. They are a widely studied species by breeders, and there are over 200 different types of goldfish or Carassius auratus. Owing to it, you can find many types of goldfish available today.
Whether you want to keep goldfish at home or are just curious, you must understand the different kinds. Dive right in and learn more about the varying types of goldfish.
Which are the most popular types of goldfish?
Did you know that goldfish were among the first species to be domesticated and selectively bred? Here’s everything you must know about this big fish family:
Single Tailed Goldfish
1. Common Goldfish
The Common goldfish belongs to the Cyprinidae fish family. They are the average yellow or orange fish, with an elongated body and a tiny short tail. Although it doesn’t have a pattern, the simple combination of color or simplicity makes them beautiful. They might grow to an impressive size that many people fail to realize. These fishes are hardy and can handle a wide range of water conditions. They are among the most popular types of goldfish not because they are cheap but also easy to handle.
2. Comet
Another fish similar to the common type is the Comet. Their body’s size and shape are identical to the common one and have similar primary coloration. The difference lies in the caudal fins, which are massive in the case of the Comet. It is almost as long as the rest of their body. The caudal fins tend to be partially transparent but still managed to stand out. It can vary a little in terms of body-color and may have randomly colored blotches.
3. Shubunkin
The Shubunkin is a unique type of goldfish bred only for its distinct coloration. Also known as the American Shubunkin, they are similar to comet goldfish, except for the calico pattern. The patterns can appear in a wide range of colors, including white, black, blue, and orange. With the vibrant mix of shimmering and matte scales, they look pretty impressive. The spots go on till the fins, which gives them a slightly hypnotizing look.
4. Wakin
The Wakin goldfish are half non-fancy and half fancy, making them a stroke of odd luck. They have an elongated body with a double tail, making it easier to recognize. Wakins are one of a kind because of their unique traits that you usually don’t find in single-tailed goldfish. They have two anal fins and two caudal fins and grow longer than the stockier fancies. Besides that, they are active swimmers, which is why people consider them pond fish.
5. Jikin
If you’re looking for a goldfish that has an aesthetic appeal, Jikin is the ideal one. Jikins are the same as Wakins in terms of body type: double-finned and elongated but have different color combinations. You can find this species of goldfish in a white body, but the fins are bright red. Jikin is a striking fish that embodies a flickering effect when swimming around. A Jikin is a rare breed, making it a challenge to find one.
Harper Harrison is a reporter for The Hear UP. Harper got an internship at the NPR and worked as a reporter and producer. harper has also worked as a reporter for the Medium. Harper covers health and science for The Hear UP.