The shubunkins fish They are one of the most beautiful and popular varieties de peces Ornamental. Coming from the Goldfish family, their characteristic marbled color pattern and resistance to different climatic conditions make them an ideal species for both beginners and advanced aquarium hobbyists. Originally from Japan, these fish have gained popularity worldwide due to their ability to adapt to both ponds and aquariums. In this article, we will explain All you need to know About Shubunkins: from their physical characteristics and ideal habitat, to how to properly care for them to ensure their health and longevity.
Physical characteristics of Shubunkins fish
The Shubunkins stand out for their elongated body and its forked caudal fin, which can reach half the total length of its body. Its size can vary depending on the space available, reaching between 10 and 25 centimeters in captivity, and up to 30 centimeters in ponds or optimal conditions. They have transparent or metallic flakes with intense and varied colours, predominantly shades of black, blue, red, orange, white and yellow, accompanied by marbled spots. One of the most appreciated varieties is the indigo blue colour, considered especially rare and valuable.
There are different varieties of Shubunkins, such as the Bristol, the London and the Japanese, which differ mainly in the shape of their fins and the distribution of colors. For example, the Bristol Shubunkin It has a wide and rounded caudal fin, while the London Shubunkin It has shorter fins and resembles the common Goldfish.
Ideal habitat for Shubunkins fish
Shubunkins are native to cold and fresh waters, although they have adapted to a wide variety of conditions. They are ideal for both outdoor and indoor ponds. large aquariumsHowever, it is important to respect certain parameters to ensure your well-being:
- Space: A minimum of 100 liters per specimen is ideal for aquariums, while in ponds they should have at least 400 to 500 liters to maintain a group de pecesThe larger the space, the better they will develop.
- Temperature: This fish supports a wide range of temperatures, from 10 to 25 degrees CelsiusIn ponds, they can hibernate in waters that reach 0 degrees, as long as they have a minimum depth of 1,5 meters.
- pH: They prefer a pH between 6,5 and 7,5, although they tolerate slight variations.
- Lighting: It is advisable to place the pond or aquarium in a place with indirect light to avoid excessive exposure to the sun, which could reduce the oxygen level in the water.
With regards to decor, it is essential to include hardy plants such as Anubias or Java ferns. These not only help to oxygenate the water, but also offer natural hiding places for the fish. However, you should avoid overloading the aquarium with plants to ensure enough space for swimming.
Basic care for Shubunkins
Shubunkins are remarkably easy to care for, but proper care is essential to prevent disease and ensure a long life span, which can be up to 20 years or even longer under optimal conditions. Below are the key aspects of its care:
- Water quality: Maintain an adequate filtration system to remove impurities. Perform partial water changes weekly, from 10 to 20 minutes. 20% to 30%, to maintain optimal oxygen levels and reduce nitrate buildup.
- Compatibility: These fish are peaceful and enjoy living in groups. They can live with other cold water species, such as Comets or Goldfish. Avoid mixing them with aggressive or larger species.
- Feeding: They are omnivores and accept a varied diet. Provide them with high-quality pellets or flakes, supplemented with vegetables such as peas or spinach and live foods such as mosquito larvae. Feed them once a day, making sure they consume everything in 5 minutes to prevent water pollution.
In addition, in winter, Shubunkins stop their metabolism and enter a state of hibernation if the water temperature drops considerably. During this period, they do not need to be fed, but it is crucial to ensure constant oxygenation of the water.
Reproduction of Shubunkins fish
Breeding of Shubunkins is relatively easy if the conditions are right. Males reach sexual maturity at two years of age, while females do so at three years of age. During the breeding season, which usually occurs in spring, males chase females to induce egg laying.
Once the eggs are fertilized, they hatch over a period of 5 to 8 daysIt is important to separate fry from adult fish, as the latter tend to feed on the fry. Provide the fry with a separate aquarium with floating plants for shelter.
Fun facts about Shubunkins fish
A fascinating feature of Shubunkins is that their color pattern does not fully develop until they reach about a year of age. For the first few months of life, juveniles are typically monochromatic in color, which gradually evolves into a vibrant combination of marbled hues.
Furthermore, these colorations can be an indicator of their quality on the ornamental market. Specimens with more blue in their pattern are considered especially valuable and difficult to find.
The Shubunkin fish is an exceptional choice for those looking for a hardy, vibrant and relatively easy-to-care-for species. Its adaptability to both aquariums and ponds, as well as its peaceful behavior and stunning appearance, make it a gem of the aquarium hobby.
