The fish shubunkin is one of most appreciated varieties of the famous Goldfish, noted for its spectacular calico color and great resistance. Its name comes from Japanese and means "deep red with other colors," reflecting the unique blend of hues that characterizes it. It is a favorite choice for those who want to enjoy de peces cold water in both aquariums and ponds, thanks to their social behavior, adaptability and ease of care.
Origin and taxonomic characteristics
- Scientific name: Carassius auratus
- Family: Cyprinidae
- Order: cypriniformes
- Origin: East Asia, mainly Japan and China
The Shubunkin Goldfish is a variety of goldfish developed in Japan, although all Goldfish originally came from China. It quickly spread worldwide due to its beauty and docility. It is a robust fish, Ideal for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
Varieties and morphology of the Shubunkin
There are several recognized varieties of Shubunkin, differentiated mainly by the shape of the caudal fin and body constitution:
- London: With an elongated and slender body, with short fins, very similar to the common Goldfish.
- Bristol board: It has a wide, square caudal fin with rounded edges. This variety was established in England in the 30s.
- American/Japanese: Slimmer body and long fins, with a more striking appearance.
The size of the Shubunkin varies according to its habitat, and can reach from 10 cm to more than 25 cm under optimal conditions, especially if raised in spacious ponds. Their calico coloration is exceptional: a red base dotted with black, white, yellow, and blue spots, often with fine, translucent scales which further enhance the tones.
Behavior, sociability and longevity
The Shubunkin is a gregarious and very active fish, which enjoys swimming in groups. It's sociable and gets along well with other goldfish and similarly sized coldwater species. It's best to avoid very small tankmates, as they may be viewed as food.
With the With proper care, a Shubunkin can live between 10 and more than 20 years., which makes them excellent long-term companions. They are long-lived fish and particularly enjoy spacious, well-oxygenated environments.
Aquarium or pond conditions
- Minimum capacity: A aquarium of at least 100 liters for a single specimen, increasing the capacity for groups or if they are kept in ponds (minimum 400 liters outdoors). You can also consult the section on cold water species for more information.
- Water temperature: Between 10°C and 28°C, although they tolerate drops below 10°C, making them suitable for outdoor ponds.
- PH: 6,5 to 7,5
- Hardness: 10 to 18° GH (they can tolerate slightly less or more, but they develop better within this range).
- Oxygenation: It is essential to have a filter and a good oxygenation system, as these fish generate a high level of waste. Frequent water changes maintain the quality of the environment.
- Decoration: They prefer fine gravel, rounded stones, and tough, resilient vegetation, such as elodea or anubias. It's advisable to avoid delicate plants, which are often eaten.
Feeding the Shubunkin
The Shubunkin is omnivorous and undemanding. Accepts commercial food in the form of flakes, pellets, and also enjoys cooked vegetables and live food, such as mosquito larvae or brine shrimp. It's advisable to vary the diet with plant foods and occasionally animal proteins. Offer just the right amount to ensure it's consumed within a few minutes, thus avoiding water contamination.
In cold climates, during the winter, they slow down their metabolism and do not require frequent feeding.
reproduction and development
The Shubunkin typically reaches sexual maturity within the first or second year of life. They are easy to breed in captivity when kept in ideal conditions. During the breeding season (spring), males chase females and gently nudge them to stimulate laying. The eggs hatch within a few days, and the fry, in their early stages, must be protected from adults and fed with specific fry food.
This fish develops its distinctive coloration after its first year of life; juveniles are usually dark-hued at birth.
The Shubunkin is an extremely rewarding species for both beginners and experienced aquarists. Due to its spectacular color, longevity and resistance to various environments, it is an ideal ornamental fish to enjoy in cold water aquariums and domestic ponds.
