Pompon Goldfish
Carassius auratus
About this strain
Pompons are identified by the fleshy nasal outgrowths — enlarged, lobed nasal septa that form two conspicuous pompom-like bundles sitting on top of the snout. When fully developed, these outgrowths bounce gently with the fish's movement. The body type can vary: Pompons exist in single-tail forms (with dorsal fin) and dorsal-less egg-body forms. Colors include red, red-and-white, calico, and chocolate. The nasal growths are delicate — avoid sharp tank decor and net very carefully during maintenance. A less commonly kept variety that rewards the patient keeper who tracks one down.
Origin
Developed in Japan in the late 19th or early 20th century, though similar nasal-growth mutations have been documented in Chinese fish. The Japanese standardized the variety and established it in the organized fancy goldfish hobby.