Not all goldfish are created equal.
Forget the basic orange fish swimming in a sad little bowl—goldfish come in an astonishing variety of shapes, colors, and even personalities. Some have flowing, delicate fins that look like underwater gowns, while others sport bubble-like cheeks or wild, telescope eyes.
These aren’t just “feeder fish” or childhood pets. Some goldfish are so fancy they look like they belong in a royal palace. Others are quirky, with bodies so unique they hardly resemble their classic cousins.
If you thought goldfish were boring, get ready to meet 16 incredible varieties that will change the way you see these iconic swimmers forever.
Ranchu Goldfish
The Ranchu Goldfish is often heralded as the “king of goldfish” in Japan, where it was developed. Known for its distinctive rounded body and hooded head, the Ranchu stands out due to its lack of a dorsal fin. This unique feature gives it a smooth back, adding to its charm.
In addition to its physical attributes, the Ranchu is celebrated for its vibrant colors, ranging from deep reds to striking oranges and whites. This type of goldfish is best suited for experienced keepers, as it requires specific care to thrive. Its elegant appearance can greatly enhance any aquarium.
Oranda Goldfish
The Oranda Goldfish is instantly recognizable due to the prominent wen, or fleshy growth, on its head. This feature, coupled with its flowing fins, makes it a popular choice among hobbyists. Known for their gentle demeanor, Orandas are ideal for peaceful community tanks.
These goldfish exhibit a wide range of colors, including red, black, blue, and calico. The Oranda’s wen requires special attention to prevent infections. Providing clean water and a well-balanced diet are essential for maintaining their health. With proper care, Orandas can become captivating centerpieces in any aquatic collection.
Lionhead Goldfish
Lionhead Goldfish are cherished for their unique facial growth that resembles a lion’s mane. Like the Ranchu, they lack a dorsal fin, giving them a smooth, rounded appearance. This breed is a top choice for those who appreciate goldfish artistry.
Their colors vary, with combinations of red, orange, and white being most common. Lionheads require a gentle environment due to their delicate structure. Regular monitoring and appropriate water conditions are key to their well-being. These goldfish are a testament to the creativity in selective breeding, offering a unique visual appeal.
Bubble Eye Goldfish
The Bubble Eye Goldfish is a fascinating sight with its fluid-filled sacs beneath the eyes, giving it a whimsical appearance. These sacs are delicate and require a tank free of sharp objects. Bubble Eyes are slow swimmers, preferring calm waters without strong currents.
Their bodies are sleek and egg-shaped, often displaying a range of colors like orange, white, and calico. Due to their unique anatomy, they are best kept with other gentle goldfish varieties. Owners should carefully design their aquatic environments to ensure these fragile beauties thrive without injury.
Celestial Eye Goldfish
The Celestial Eye Goldfish captivates with its unusual upward-pointing eyes, lending it a celestial charm. This feature develops as they mature, setting them apart from other goldfish. Their body is sleek and elongated, often found in shades of orange, red, and sometimes calico.
Due to the positioning of their eyes, Celestials are best suited to tanks with minimal obstacles. They thrive in calm, stable environments where their unique features can be admired without risk of injury. Owners find joy in the ethereal quality they bring to aquariums.
Telescope Goldfish
Telescope Goldfish are named for their prominent, protruding eyes, which give them a distinctive look. Their eyes, paired with flowing fins, make them a staple in many ornamental fish collections. They come in a variety of colors, such as black, red, and calico, providing a visual feast for enthusiasts.
These goldfish require careful handling due to their sensitive eyes and are best kept in calm waters. Gentle tank mates and a spacious environment help them thrive. Despite their delicate nature, Telescopes are cherished for their unique appearance and lively presence.
Black Moor Goldfish
The Black Moor Goldfish is renowned for its velvety black scales and large, expressive eyes. This variety is a type of Telescope Goldfish, sharing the characteristic eye shape but distinct in its coloration. Their dramatic appearance adds a touch of elegance to any tank.
Despite their dark exterior, Black Moors are gentle and adaptable. They are compatible with other goldfish varieties, provided the environment is peaceful. Regular maintenance and feeding are crucial to keep their dark color vibrant. Their mysterious allure makes them a favorite among goldfish enthusiasts.
Shubunkin Goldfish
Shubunkin Goldfish are celebrated for their beautiful calico patterns, often showcasing shades of blue, red, orange, and black. These hardy fish are excellent for both indoor aquariums and outdoor ponds, thriving in varied conditions.
Their streamlined bodies and active nature make them delightful to watch as they dart through the water. Shubunkins are social creatures, often thriving in groups. They are easy to care for, making them perfect for beginners and seasoned aquarists alike. Their vibrant patterns can illuminate any aquatic setting, offering a lively spectacle.
Comet Goldfish
Comet Goldfish are known for their long, flowing tail fins and streamlined bodies, making them agile swimmers. They are often mistaken for common goldfish but stand out due to their elegant tails. Comets come in bright orange, red, and even bi-color varieties.
These goldfish are robust and easy to care for, making them a popular choice for first-time goldfish owners. Their playful nature requires ample swimming space in well-maintained tanks. Given their social nature, they thrive in groups, adding dynamic movement and energy to their aquatic environments.
Fantail Goldfish
Fantail Goldfish are distinguished by their double tails and smooth, rounded bodies. This variety is a precursor to many fancy goldfish breeds and is beloved for its classic, elegant appearance. They are typically found in vibrant oranges and whites.
Fantails are hardy and adaptable, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. They require a balanced diet and clean water conditions to flourish. Their graceful movements and stunning coloration make them a visually appealing addition to any tank, capturing the essence of goldfish beauty.
Pearlscale Goldfish
The Pearlscale Goldfish is easily identified by its unique, raised scales that resemble tiny pearls. This trait, combined with their rounded body, gives them a charming, almost ornamental appearance. They are often available in colors such as red, calico, and white.
Though hardy, Pearlscales require attentive care to maintain their scale quality. Their rotund shape necessitates careful feeding to avoid digestion issues. With a gentle diet and suitable environment, they can thrive and become a captivating centerpiece in an aquarium. Their distinctive scale pattern offers an intriguing visual texture.
Ryukin Goldfish
Ryukin Goldfish are known for the pronounced hump behind their heads, giving them a unique silhouette. This breed is appreciated for its powerful swimming abilities and vibrant colors, including shades of red, white, and orange.
Ryukins thrive in spacious environments where they can swim freely. They require regular maintenance to keep their water clean and their health in optimal condition. Their bold appearance and active nature make Ryukins a popular choice for goldfish enthusiasts looking to add dynamic beauty to their tanks. Their lively presence can invigorate any aquatic setting.
Veiltail Goldfish
Veiltail Goldfish are admired for their long, flowing fins that resemble a bridal veil. Their elegant appearance makes them a sought-after variety for decorative tanks. These goldfish are available in various colors, including red, white, and calico.
Due to their delicate fins, Veiltails require tank setups with minimal obstacles to avoid damage. They thrive in calm environments with gentle currents. Regular care and a balanced diet help maintain their fin quality and overall health. Veiltails add a touch of sophistication and grace to any aquarium, making them a favorite among collectors.
Pompom Goldfish
Pompom Goldfish are uniquely characterized by fleshy growths on their noses that resemble pom-poms, giving them a distinctive appearance. This feature, combined with their graceful swimming, makes them a fascinating addition to any collection.
They are available in various colors, including orange, red, and white. Due to their unique anatomy, Pompoms require careful tank setups to prevent injury. They thrive with regular feeding and attentive care. Their unusual appearance and gentle demeanor make Pompoms a popular choice for those seeking something different in the world of goldfish.
Butterfly Tail Goldfish
The Butterfly Tail Goldfish captivates with its stunning tail that spreads like butterfly wings, creating a mesmerizing visual effect. This variety is particularly popular for its graceful movements and striking appearance.
Butterfly Tails come in a range of colors, including white, red, and calico. They require clean, spacious environments to accommodate their flowing tails and prevent damage. Gentle care and regular maintenance are essential for keeping them in pristine condition. Their beauty and elegance elevate any aquarium, providing an enchanting display for viewers to enjoy.
Wakin Goldfish
Wakin Goldfish are known for their streamlined bodies and double tails, reminiscent of both the Comet and Fantail varieties. They are often found in vibrant red and white combinations.
These goldfish are hardy and well-suited for outdoor ponds, where their lively nature and robust health can thrive. Wakins require clean, well-oxygenated water to maintain their vitality. Their active swimming and striking colors make them a delightful addition to any pond, offering a dynamic spectacle that draws the eye. Their adaptability and vibrant presence are cherished by pond enthusiasts.