Butterfly Shubunkin
Description: The Goldfish is the most popular coldwater fish to be kept. It was first selectively bred for colour in ancient China more than 1,000 years ago, and several distinct breeds have since been developed. Goldfish breeds vary greatly in size, body shape, fin configuration, and coloration (various combinations of white, yellow, orange, red, brown, and black are known). These examples are a long fins type not dissimilar to Bristol varieties. Shubunkin range in colour variations with Black Spots, Blues, Red, Yellow and White.
Maximum Size: Upto 18″ but on average 8-12″ when mature. Please do not be under the myth of ‘They’ll only grow to the size of their home’. This is not true. Shubunkin can also live well in excess of 15 years so please bear this in mind!
Environment: The Shubunkin goldfish are a very hardy fish. These fish are ideal to grow in your aquarium (large only!) or garden pond. Goldfish require good filtration and will benefit from a well planted tank or pond. Most Shubunkin will breed quite quickly in a well established pond. They will peacefully mix with all other varieties of fish, however, they are significantly quicker than more Fancy Goldfish types and can out compete them.
We cannot ever recommend ‘Goldfish Bowls’ as a suitable living space for any fish. Note that Shubunkin should reach a minimum length of 8″ and can reach sizes of upto 16″.
Water Conditions: Shubunkin require a pH range of 7-8.5, Ammonia and Nitrite to be virtually 0ppm and dissolved oxygen saturation to remain above 4ppm. They are tolerable to lower oxygen saturation values than a lot of fish, although this is not recommended.
As with any pet, please fully research for yourself to ensure that you can accommodate a fish of this type in your home.