Shubunkin: Fish Species Characteristics and Care

The Shubunkin goldfish is a long-bodied variety, closely resembling the Comet goldfish but with unique calico coloring and elongated fins. Shubunkins are excellent additions to goldfish and temperate fish aquariums.

Characteristics

Family	Cyprinidae
Origin	Japan
Social	Peaceful
Tank Level	Top, mid-dweller
Minimum Tank Size	50 gallon
Diet	Omnivore
Breeding	Egglayer
Care	Beginner
pH	6.5 to 8.5
Hardness	dkH 2 to 12
Temperature	33 to 85 F (1 to 29 C)

Origin and Distribution

The Shubunkin is a breed of long-bodied, fancy goldfish. They originated in Japan through several generations of cross breeding the standard (short fin) and Comet (long fin) goldfish with calico telescope goldfish. They are not found in the wild since they were cultivated through human manipulation. Their ancestor, the Crucian carp, is found throughout Europe and Asia.

Colors and Markings

The Shubunkin is distinguishable from Comet goldfish by its coloring and more elongated fins. While Comet goldfish vary in shades of white, brown, gold, yellow, and red, Shubunkins are known for their "calico" markings, which include a pale white to iridescent body with black or blue spots, accented by reds and yellows. This unique coloration ensures Shubunkins are recognizable, even in mixed goldfish tanks. Some goldfish varieties can be crossed with Shubunkins to achieve a fancy body type with Shubunkin coloration.

Some Shubunkins may display clear scales or patches of scaleless skin, similar to their doitsu koi cousins. All of their fins are slightly longer than Comet goldfish. The fins will often contain streaks of black to match their body markings.

Tankmates

Shubunkins can comfortably cohabit with fish similar to those living with the Comet goldfish. As temperate fish, they shouldn't be housed with tropical species. Despite being social and non-aggressive, Shubunkins are voracious eaters; therefore, they may accidentally consume anything small enough to fit in their mouths, including small fish and invertebrates.

Shubunkin Habitat and Care

Like all other goldfish, your Shubunkins will require a tank with a filter, not a bowl. They do not require heated water and do well at room temperature. Shubunkins will make a lot of waste, and you will need to keep a close eye on your tank's nitrogen cycle levels to ensure your nitrate stays below 20 mg/L. Be sure your aquarium has strong filtration.

Shubunkins don't have specific preferences for tank décor. As long as the tank is spacious, they will remain active swimmers. Avoid adding too many obstacles, as these can damage their longer fins.

Goldfish, including Shubunkins, are active foragers often seen picking up and spitting out substrate. This behavior is normal and typically doesn't cause issues with obstructions. However, gel balls containing beneficial bacteria can pose a risk if ingested, as they might get lodged and stop the fish from eating. If you suspect your fish has an oral obstruction, contact your aquatic veterinarian right away.

Shubunkin Diet and Feeding

Shubunkins are omnivores and can be fed commercially prepared goldfish food. Opt for pelleted diets comprising 32-35% protein and 5-7% fat. Goldfish require some animal protein for proper growth and development. Active breeders and juveniles need diets with increased protein and fat levels.

Feed your Shubunkins once daily for 3-5 minutes if the water is 70°F (21°C) or lower. If it's warmer than 70°F, feed them twice daily. As ectotherms with broad temperature tolerance, Shubunkins tend to eat more as water temperature rises. Avoid leaving uneaten food in the tank as it can spoil and cause water quality issues.

You can offer Shubunkins occasional treats. Vegetables like shelled green peas can be given once daily, while meaty treats such as frozen bloodworms or brine shrimp should be limited to once a week.

Gender Differences

Not all male Shubunkins, unlike Comet goldfish, show the classic breeding tubercles on their pectoral fins and operculum. Females may develop rounder bellies compared to males, but only during reproductive activity. Distinguishing between male and female Shubunkins is challenging outside of spawning periods.

Breeding the Shubunkin

By providing the right temperature, lighting conditions, and a nutritious diet, even beginners can breed Shubunkins successfully. Males often chase females around the tank to encourage egg release, after which they fertilize the eggs externally. These eggs typically settle throughout the tank, with plant materials and exposed roots serving as common breeding sites.

Post-spawning, it's essential to separate adult fish from the eggs to prevent them from eating the eggs. Setting up a dedicated spawning tank helps facilitate this process, by later returning adults to their main tank. A single spawning can yield up to 1,000 eggs. Fry begin to hatch in roughly six days, after which they start swimming and eating. Ensure they receive an appropriate diet for optimal development.

More Pet Fish Species and Further Research

If Shubunkins interest you, consider exploring profiles of these other fish species:

• Comet Goldfish
• Koi
• Gold (Chinese) Barb

Check out additional fish breed profiles for more information on other freshwater fish.