What is Answerbag?

Ask questions and share your knowledge with the world here on Answerbag. Get the best answers where there are no duplicate questions and questions are always open - our community of over 1,140,000 will find your answer!

Join For Free!
 

How to Identify and Care for Shubunkin Fish

Thursday, March 05, 2009
Related Tags: shubunkin | fish | goldfish | tank | aquarium
 

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

  • 36-gallon fish tank or larger Shubunkin goldfish Powerful filter Aquarium heater Tropical fish food Aquarium decorations

How to Identify Shubunkin Gold Fish

  • Step 1:
    Note the distinctive "calico" coloration of the shubunkin goldfish, which is a combination of different shades of reds, oranges and browns with black speckles.
  • Step 2:
    Keep in mind that the male shubunkin goldfish develops white tubercles on its gill plates as well as the front edge of its pectoral fins. The female shubunkin has a deeper-colored body than the male, as well as a larger vent located just before her anal fin.
  • Step 3:
    Look out for a forked, pointed tail fin that can grow about as long as the fish's body.

How to Care for Your Shubunkin Goldfish

  • Step 1:
    Purchase a 36-gallon or larger fish tank for your shubunkin goldfish. Ensure that you select a fish tank that allows a ratio of 10 gallons of water for every goldfish you will have. In fact, the bigger the fish tank you can get, the better, because the larger capacity helps maintain the water quality for longer periods.
  • Step 2:
    Fill the fish tank with room temperature water. Install the filter and heater in your fish tank. Adjust your heater to maintain water temperatures at 42 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Step 3:
    Add your gravel to the fish tank, as well as any other aquarium decorations as desired. Provide some live or fake plants, allowing plenty of open space for swimming. Let the water sit uncovered for 24 hours before you release your shubunkin goldfish into the fish tank.
  • Step 4:
    Be sure to do a regular 25%-30% water change each week to maintain water quality. Maintain tank water conditions at a pH range of 6.5-8.5.
  • Step 5:
    Add your gravel to the fish tank, as well as any other aquarium decorations as desired. Provide some live or fake plants, allowing plenty of open space for swimming.

Resources

Photo/Video Credit

Author - FreudianSlap, image used under the GNU Free Documentation License.

Related Content
How to Identify and Care for Pearlscale Fish
Pearlscale fish (Carassius auratus) are an increasingly popular type of fancy goldfish among aquarists and collectors. Also known as golden carp, the pearlscale goldfish is a man-made cultivar that...
How to Identify and Care for Fantail Fish
Fantail goldfish (carassius auratus) are a man-made cultivar that belongs to the Cyprinidae family. This fancy goldfish derives its name for the characteristic shape of their elegant, flowing...
How to Identify and Care for Bubble Eye Goldfish
The bubble eye goldfish (carassius auratus) is a man-made cultivar that belongs to the family Cyprinidae. It is instantly recognizable for the fluid filled sacs that surround its eyes. Like most...
How to Identify and Take Care of Black Moor Fish
The black moors (carassius auratus) belongs to the family Cyprinidae. Also called "fancy goldfish," it is one of the most popular breeds of goldfish. It is hardy and well-suited for beginner...
How to Identify and Take Care of Calico Moor Fish
Calico Moors (carassius auratus) belong to the family Cyprinidae and is native to Asia. This species is a variety of fancy goldfish, and like most goldfish, is a hardy coldwater fish that is...