Choose for health as well as appearance
Goldfish varieties belong to the same species, Carassius auratus. “Breed” and “variety” usually describe selected shapes and colours, rather than different species. Body and eye modifications can affect mobility, vision and welfare. Watch an individual swim and eat before choosing it.
Fancy goldfish
A broad group with modified bodies or fins, usually slower than single-tail fish. Match companions by feeding speed.
Common goldfish
Streamlined body and single tail. Plan generous swimming length and an adult-sized aquarium or pond.
Shubunkin goldfish
Single-tail goldfish with calico colouring. Active swimmers that suit spacious, protected ponds.
Fantail goldfish
Double tail with a relatively moderate body shape. Check the fish can swim and feed normally.
Oranda goldfish
Recognised by a fleshy head growth called a wen. Watch for growth interfering with sight or feeding; do not trim it yourself.
Ranchu goldfish
Rounded, dorsal-fin-free body and curved back. Needs calm feeding areas and smooth furnishings.
Ryukin goldfish
Deep body with a pronounced shoulder rise. Avoid sharp decor and assess swimming ability individually.
Telescope goldfish
Protruding eyes can make sight and injury risks important. Protect intakes and provide food in predictable places.
Lionhead goldfish
Dorsal-fin-free variety with head growth. Needs gentle conditions and monitoring of feeding access.
Pearlscale goldfish
Rounded body with raised, pearl-like scales. Avoid abrasion and rough handling.
Bubble Eye goldfish
Fluid-filled sacs below the eyes are vulnerable. Use protected intakes and exceptionally smooth surroundings.
Celestial Eye goldfish
Upward-facing eyes and no dorsal fin. Avoid fast companions that take food first.
Veiltail goldfish
Long, flowing paired tail. Provide space without fin-nipping companions or strong current.
Comet and black moor guides
For long-tailed single-tail fish, read the comet goldfish guide. For the black telescope variety, see black moor goldfish care. Black colouring can change with age; eye shape still affects care.
Frequently asked question
Can fancy and common goldfish live together?
Fast single-tail fish can outcompete slower fancies. Similar swimming ability and reliable feeding access matter more than matching colours.
Sources and further reading
General husbandry and health references. Individual fish and local conditions vary.