Shubunkin (American) Goldfish
Carassius auratus
About this strain
The American Shubunkin is the most tail-forward of the three Shubunkin types — it sports a long, deeply forked single tail resembling a Comet's, paired with the nacreous calico coloration that defines the Shubunkin group. Blue ground tones with vivid red, orange, and black overlays make a top-grade specimen genuinely stunning. Fast and energetic, this variety belongs in ponds or very large tanks. Don't mix with slow fancy varieties — it'll dominate feeding. Select for depth of blue coloring and clean, unragged tail edges.
Origin
Emerged in American fishkeeping circles in the early-to-mid 20th century as breeders crossed Shubunkins with Comets to extend the tail length. Exact origin documentation is sparse compared to the Bristol strain.