Three Shubunkin Varieties
London Shubunkin — short rounded fins, similar shape to Common goldfish. Most common variety.
Bristol Shubunkin — large heart-shaped tail, considered the most beautiful variety, popular in UK ponds.
American Shubunkin — long flowing fins similar to Comet. Common in US ponds.
Color Pattern
Ideal Shubunkin coloration: 25% blue, 25% red, 25% black, 25% white/yellow with random calico spots. Blue is the most prized and rarest color.
Color stabilizes around age 1 year and may shift slightly through life. Show-quality Shubunkin retain strong blue throughout life.
Care Requirements
Same as Comet — large tank or pond, cold-water tolerant, fast swimmer. Do not house with fancy goldfish (they will out-compete fancies for food).
Diet, filtration, and water quality requirements identical to Comet goldfish.
Breeding Shubunkins
Spawning happens in spring as ponds warm to 18–20°C. Pairs spawn on plants or spawning mops. Eggs hatch in 3–5 days. Fry start out gray-bronze and develop calico colors over 6–12 months.
Selective breeding for stronger blue requires removing non-blue offspring early.