How Many Types Of Goldfish Are There – A Complete Guide To Choosing
Ever walked into a pet store, gazed at the aquarium section, and felt a wave of both excitement and confusion? You see the classic orange fish, but then you spot one with bubbly cheeks, another with telescope eyes, and one with a majestic, flowing tail. It’s a dazzling world, and it often leads to one big question.
You’re not alone in wondering this. Many aquarists, new and old, look at the incredible diversity and ask, “Just how many types of goldfish are there?” The simple image of a fish in a bowl is just the tiny, shimmering tip of a very large iceberg.
I promise that this guide will transform that confusion into confidence. We’re going to dive deep into the wonderful world of goldfish, exploring the main families, the most popular varieties, and the specific care they need to thrive. Think of me as your friendly guide at Aquifarm, here to help you make the best choice for your future aquatic companion.
In this complete how many types of goldfish are there guide, we’ll journey through the streamlined single-tails, marvel at the ornate fancy varieties, and provide the essential tips you need to create a happy, healthy home for them. Let’s get started!
The Two Main Families of Goldfish: Single-Tailed vs. Fancy
Before we start counting individual breeds, it’s crucial to understand that all goldfish fall into two main categories. Think of these as the two major branches of the goldfish family tree. Understanding this distinction is the first step in our how many types of goldfish are there care guide.
Single-Tailed Goldfish: These are the athletes of the goldfish world. They have a single caudal (tail) fin and a long, streamlined body built for speed. They most closely resemble their wild carp ancestors.
- Hardiness: Extremely robust and resilient.
- Size: Can easily grow over a foot long.
- Best For: Large aquariums (75+ gallons) and outdoor ponds.
Fancy Goldfish: These are the aristocrats, selectively bred for unique and often dramatic physical traits. They typically have a split, double caudal fin and a round, egg-shaped body. This makes them much slower and more delicate swimmers.
- Hardiness: More sensitive to water conditions and prone to specific health issues.
- Size: Generally smaller, growing to about 6-8 inches.
- Best For: Aquariums-only, where they won’t face competition from faster fish.
A crucial pro tip: Never mix single-tailed and fancy goldfish in the same tank! The faster single-tails will outcompete the slower fancies for food and may even bully them. Following these how many types of goldfish are there best practices is key to a peaceful aquarium.
Hardy & Streamlined: The Single-Tailed Goldfish
If you have a large tank or a pond and want an active, hardy fish, the single-tailed varieties are your go-to. They are what most people picture when they think “goldfish,” but even within this group, there’s beautiful variety.
The Common Goldfish
This is the original, the ancestor of all other types. They are incredibly hardy and can tolerate a wider range of temperatures, making them perfect for ponds. Don’t be fooled by their “common” name—a well-cared-for Common Goldfish is a stunning, active fish.
The Comet Goldfish
Very similar to the Common, the Comet is distinguished by its long, deeply forked tail that flows like a comet’s tail. They are incredibly fast and energetic, constantly exploring their environment. They often come in vibrant shades of orange, red, yellow, or sarasa (a red and white pattern).
The Shubunkin
Often called the “calico goldfish,” the Shubunkin is a single-tailed fish with a beautiful nacreous scale pattern, meaning it has a mix of metallic and transparent scales. This gives it a mottled, multi-colored appearance, usually in a base of blue with splashes of red, orange, black, and white. They are just as hardy and active as Commons and Comets. Don’t worry—these fish are perfect for beginners with a big enough setup!
A Dazzling Display: Exploring the World of Fancy Goldfish
This is where the diversity truly explodes. Fancy goldfish are living works of art, but their beauty comes with more specific care requirements. Here’s a look at some of the most beloved types.
The Fantail
The Fantail is the quintessential fancy goldfish and a great starting point for aspiring fancy keepers. They have a classic egg-shaped body and a double, flowing tail fin. They are among the hardiest of the fancies and are relatively good swimmers compared to their more modified cousins.
The Ryukin
Instantly recognizable by the prominent hump on its back just behind its head, the Ryukin has a more pointed head and a high, arched body. This dramatic shape can sometimes lead to swim bladder issues, so a high-quality diet is essential. They are active and can have a bit of a feisty personality.
The Oranda
The Oranda is famous for its “wen,” a fleshy, raspberry-like growth that covers its head. This wen can take years to fully develop and requires special care, as it can be prone to bacterial infections or even grow over the fish’s eyes, impairing its vision. Regularly check the wen for any redness or debris.
The Telescope Eye (and Black Moor)
As the name suggests, these fish have protruding, telescope-like eyes. The most famous variety is the Black Moor, known for its velvety black color and metallic shimmer. Their vision is very poor, so they need a “baby-proofed” tank with no sharp decorations. They are peaceful, slow-moving fish.
The Bubble Eye
One of the most delicate and bizarre-looking goldfish, the Bubble Eye has two large, fluid-filled sacs under its eyes. These sacs are extremely fragile and can be easily punctured. This fish is strictly for experienced keepers with a dedicated, safe aquarium setup. They are very poor swimmers.
The Lionhead & Ranchu
These two are often grouped together as they both lack a dorsal fin and possess a prominent wen. The main difference is the back curvature; the Ranchu has a more arched, curved spine, while the Lionhead’s back is flatter. Their lack of a dorsal fin makes them slightly wobbly swimmers, adding to their charm.
The Pearlscale
The Pearlscale is a truly unique sight. Each of its scales has a raised center, making it look like it’s covered in tiny pearls. Their body is very round and compact, which unfortunately makes them highly susceptible to swim bladder disease. Careful feeding is a must.
So, How Many Types of Goldfish Are There, Really? A Guide to the Numbers
Now for the main event. If you ask a dozen experts “how many types of goldfish are there?“, you might get a dozen different answers. And they could all be right!
Here’s the truth: there is no single, official count. In China, where goldfish have been selectively bred for over a thousand years, there are hundreds of recognized local varieties and sub-varieties. Many of these never make it to the global aquarium trade.
For the average aquarist, a more practical answer is that there are around 20-25 distinct and commonly available types of goldfish. This includes the major varieties we’ve discussed and a few other less common ones like the Veiltail, Pompom, and Celestial Eye.
The key takeaway from this how many types of goldfish are there guide is to focus less on a hard number and more on the incredible diversity and the specific needs of each type you encounter.
Best Practices for Choosing and Caring for Your Goldfish
Knowing the types is one thing; providing a thriving home is another. Here are some universal best practices and tips for goldfish care, addressing some of the common problems that can arise.
Tank Size Matters (A Lot!)
This is the number one mistake new owners make. Goldfish bowls are cruel and unsuitable. Goldfish are large, messy fish that need space and powerful filtration.
- Single-Tailed Goldfish: A 75-gallon tank is a minimum starting point for one or two. They are truly pond fish at heart.
- Fancy Goldfish: A 20-gallon tank is the absolute minimum for one, with an additional 10-15 gallons for each extra fancy goldfish. Bigger is always better!
Water Quality is King
Goldfish produce a lot of waste, which creates ammonia—a toxic chemical. A “cycled” tank with a robust filter is non-negotiable. This means establishing a colony of beneficial bacteria that converts toxic ammonia into less harmful nitrate. You must also perform regular partial water changes (25-50% weekly) to keep nitrates low.
Common Problems with How Many Types of Goldfish Are There
Understanding the common problems linked to different body shapes is vital. Many of the common problems with how many types of goldfish are there stem from their unique genetics.
- Swim Bladder Disease: Very common in round-bodied fancies like Ryukins and Pearlscales. It affects buoyancy. Feeding sinking pellets and cooked, peeled peas can help.
- Wen Infections: A risk for Orandas and Lionheads. Keep water pristine and check the wen for any issues.
- Eye Injuries: A major concern for Telescope, Bubble Eye, and Celestial Eye goldfish. Ensure the tank has no sharp objects.
- Fin Rot: Can affect any goldfish, but long-finned varieties like Comets and Veiltails are more susceptible. It’s almost always caused by poor water quality.
Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Goldfish Keeping
Being a responsible aquarist goes beyond your tank. A focus on sustainable how many types of goldfish are there practices is crucial for the hobby and the environment.
First and foremost: NEVER release your goldfish into the wild. They can become a highly destructive invasive species, outcompeting native fish and destroying habitats. If you can no longer care for your fish, return it to a pet store, find another hobbyist, or contact a local fish club.
To promote eco-friendly how many types of goldfish are there keeping, try to source your fish from reputable local breeders. These fish are often healthier and haven’t endured the stress of long-distance shipping. Additionally, consider using energy-efficient pumps and lighting to reduce your carbon footprint.
Frequently Asked Questions About Goldfish Varieties
Which goldfish is best for a beginner?
For a large tank or pond, a Shubunkin is a fantastic choice—hardy and beautiful. For a standard aquarium (40+ gallons), a Fantail is the best entry-level fancy goldfish due to its relative hardiness.
Can you mix single-tailed and fancy goldfish?
It is strongly discouraged. The fast, boisterous single-tails will easily outcompete the slow, delicate fancies for food and can cause stress and physical harm. It’s an unfair matchup.
How big do goldfish actually get?
Much bigger than most people think! With proper care, single-tailed varieties like Commons and Comets can exceed 12 inches in length. Fancy varieties typically reach 6-8 inches, not including their tails.
Do goldfish really have a 3-second memory?
This is a complete myth! Goldfish are quite intelligent. They can easily recognize their owners, learn feeding schedules, and even be trained to perform simple tricks like swimming through hoops.
Your Goldfish Adventure Awaits
We’ve journeyed from the speedy Comet to the delicate Bubble Eye, and now you know the answer to “how many types of goldfish are there” is more about quality than quantity. It’s about understanding the rich history and unique needs of these amazing creatures.
Choosing a goldfish isn’t about picking the prettiest one; it’s about finding the one whose needs you can confidently meet. Whether it’s a hardy Shubunkin for your pond or a charming Fantail for your living room aquarium, you are now equipped with the knowledge to be a fantastic fish parent.
Remember that a goldfish is not a prize to be won, but a living companion that can bring you joy for 10, 15, or even 20+ years. Go forth and find the perfect finned friend for your thriving aquarium. Happy fishkeeping!
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