Goldfish
Don’t let their name fool you. Goldfish come in a stunning variety of colors. They also come in a range of shapes, sizes and fin types. Slim-Bodied goldfish are extremely hardy and make great first pets for those new to aquarium keeping. Fancy goldfish, such as black moors and orandas, are colorful, unique and more suited to keep as a hobby. Goldfish are competitive eaters and very interactive with their owners. Be careful not to keep bulk or feeder-type fish with fancy goldfish, as there is more of a chance to introduce disease.
Breeds
While you can find hundreds of Goldfish varieties around the world, here are some of the more popular ones you’ll find at pet stores.
Black Moor
Unlike other fancy goldfish types, this breed is extremely enduring and can make good pets for new fishkeepers.
BubbleEye
One of the most fragile goldfish types and probably the slowest swimmers.
Celestial
Nicknamed “stargazers” because their eyes are locked upward.
Comet
Bred in the United States, the Comet goldfish is more playful and active than most other goldfish breeds.
Fantail
One of the hardiest fancy varieties, Fantail goldfish are recognizable for their split caudal fin.
Lionhead
Lacking a fin on their back (dorsal fin), Lionheads swim very slowly.
Oranda
Like Lionheads, Orandas also have unique head growth called “wen.”
Ryukin
These fish are hardy and a good choice for beginners. Ryukins are known for the large hump behind their heads.
Shubunkin
Known for their calico pattern, Shubunkins are very resilient and make a good first pet for new fish owners.
Telescope
Aptly named for their protruding eyes. Be careful with sharp decorations.
Veiltail
Gorgeous, delicate and can be rather rare.
FUN FACTS
Goldfish have no eyelids, which means they sleep with their eyes open and do not blink.
Goldfish have been known to memorize faces.
In the 18th century, members of the European aristocracy would remove goldfish from their ponds and place them into decorative bowls for special occasions
A school of goldfish is known as a “troubling.”
Goldfish Products
