Shubunkin (London) Goldfish
Carassius auratus
About this strain
London Shubunkins share the single-tailed, slim body plan of a common goldfish but are celebrated entirely for their calico coloration — a mosaic of blue, violet, red, orange, black, and white on a nacreous (matte, non-metallic) scale base. The blue ground color is the prized trait; deep, pervasive blue across the body is the benchmark of a quality specimen. London-type Shubunkins have a shorter, rounder tail compared to Bristol and American types. Hardy and fast, they belong in ponds or spacious community setups rather than delicate fancy tanks.
Origin
The Shubunkin was developed in Japan around 1900 by Kichigoro Akiyama. The London type was standardized by British breeders and fanciers in the early 20th century as a distinct tail-shape variant.