Goldfish Varieties: A Beginner's Guide to Goldfish

When I was younger, I had the idea that all goldfish looked alike. They were all orange, small, and not very sophisticated. Well, as it turned out later, I was wrong. The first time I visited a pond shop, I was stunned by the amount of diversity among goldfish species. Now that I work with them, I want to share my knowledge about the main goldfish varieties.

How Many Varieties of Goldfish Can You Find?

There are more than 200 types of goldfish created over decades through selective breeding practices. This is the simple answer.

First, goldfish are descendants of carp, which are freshwater species of fish. Then, breeders started selecting for specific traits, such as elongated fins or unique body shapes.

This led to the creation of numerous types of goldfish that now exist. They differ not only in appearance but also in behavior.

So, if you are new to goldfish, the information here will help you choose.

Common and Fancy Goldfish: Main Types of Goldfish

There are two main categories of goldfish: common goldfish and fancy goldfish varieties.

The names clearly describe the differences between the two, but let me clarify.

Main Common Types of Goldfish Every Beginner Must Know

As a rule, common goldfish are robust and agile animals that swim quickly.

These types of goldfish include:

• Classic common goldfish
• Comet goldfish
• Shubunkin (they are quite colorful, similar to comet goldfish)

If you plan to create a pond ecosystem for your fish, these are the best goldfish to choose. They adapt well and are very resistant to temperature changes.

Fancy Goldfish Varieties: Description of Main Features

As a rule, fancy goldfish have peculiar body shapes or other distinguishing features, such as the lack of certain fins.

Among them are, for instance:

• Ranchu goldfish (the body is rounded and lacks a dorsal fin)
• Oranda goldfish (have a head growth called a wen)
• Ryukin (the back is high and the body is short)

Fancy goldfish swim relatively slowly. Also, they are sensitive to water parameters.

Thus, it is better to keep fancy goldfish in aquariums rather than ponds.

Smallest Goldfish and the Best Goldfish for a Pond

Often, people ask if there is such a thing as the smallest goldfish. As a matter of fact, it does not exist. Although many fish look small, they all tend to grow.

Smallest Goldfish

None of them are actually mini goldfish.

Even smaller fancy goldfish varieties grow up to 5–6 inches long.

However, due to their body shape, some species, for instance, ranchu or oranda, look smaller.

Best Goldfish for a Pond

Those are robust fish that survive pretty well outdoors.

They are as follows:

• Common goldfish
• Comet goldfish
• Shubunkin

They swim actively and easily tolerate seasonal fluctuations in temperature.

I've seen many ponds that managed to successfully keep them with minimal problems compared to others.

How Beginners Should Choose the Best Goldfish

Choosing goldfish depends on the environment you plan to place them in and your skill level.

Consider Your Setup

If you own a pond, your choice is clear—select common types of goldfish. They are easier to maintain.

If you have an aquarium, go for fancy goldfish breeds, but be ready to provide more care.

Remember Water Parameters

Goldfish produce a lot of waste that negatively affects water quality.

Adequate filtration, the process in which organic matter is removed from water, is crucial.

Water circulation is also important since it helps maintain oxygen content.

For outdoor ponds, a waterfall filtration system is a convenient option that allows you to maintain water movement and purity simultaneously.

Systems offered by Poposoap do exactly that.

Choose Goldfish Based on Your Expertise Level

It is better to start with robust goldfish types and become experienced enough in handling fish before attempting more delicate types.

Fancy goldfish are beautiful fish but harder to keep.

Conclusion

Goldfish exist in various shapes and sizes. Knowing the different types of goldfish will help you pick the ones you really need.

Sometimes they are easy to care for, and sometimes they are more difficult. It is impossible to say which one is better; it depends on your setup and experience.

In case you decide to create a pond and keep fish there, pay attention to the water conditions. The filtration system offered by Poposoap can help.

FAQ

1. How Many Varieties of Goldfish Are There?

There are over 200 breeds.

2. What Are Fancy Goldfish Varieties?

These are those that differ in body shapes or fins.

3. What Is the Smallest Goldfish?

It is difficult to say; most goldfish grow to 5–6 inches long.

4. What Are the Best Goldfish for a Pond?

Common, comet, and shubunkin.