The Shubunkin, a type of single-tailed goldfish, is originally from China and over the years has been distributed world-wide. The Shubunkin differs from the wild Carp in that it lacks the barbels on the mouth area, the markings at the base of the scales, and the size. The Shubunkin is a hardy fish and has a mottled pattern of white, black, and orange. It may also be called a Speckled or Harlequin Goldfish.

The ideal set-up for the Shubunkin is a pond of at least 180 gallons with a gravel substrate, rocks, and hearty plants. This fish will grow in proportion to its surroundings. It likes to eat the roots of plants and will dig to get to them, so provide large rocks around the base of the plants to protect them.

Adequate filtration should be provided in order to maintain proper water conditions. The male can be differentiated from the female by the concave anal section, and sometimes, breeding spots on the head. Spawning may result in as many as 1,000 eggs and the fry emerge in about six days. Feed the fry small, live foods, and their color will emerge in about eight months. The Shubunkin requires a quality pellet or flake food that does not exceed 30% protein.

The Sarasa Comet, a type of single-tailed goldfish, is originally from China and over the years has been distributed world-wide. The Sarasa Comet differs from the wild Carp in that it lacks the barbels on the mouth area, the markings at the base of the scales, and the size. The Sarasa Comet is a hardy fish and is brilliant red with white patches. The related Pond Comets are entirely orange-red. The ideal set-up for the Sarasa Comet is a pond of at least 180 gallons with a gravel substrate, rocks, and hearty plants. This fish will grow in proportion to its surroundings. It likes to eat the roots of plants and will dig to get to them, so provide large rocks around the base of the plants to protect them. Adequate filtration should be provided in order to maintain proper water conditions. The male can be differentiated from the female by the concave anal section, and sometimes, breeding spots on the head. Spawning may result in as many as 1,000 eggs and the fry emerge in about six days. Feed the fry small, live foods, and their color will emerge in about eight months. The Sarasa Comet requires a quality pellet or flake food that does not exceed 30% protein.

The Ryukin Goldfish has a curved backbone, a fat belly, and long feathery fins. It has a small, pointed mouth and the body is typically triangular in shape. There is a distinct hump on the back immediately behind the head. The Ryukin Goldfish comes in a variety of colors, including the Red/White, Calico, Red/Black, and Red Ryukin.

All goldfish are members of the carp group and are generally quite hardy. The Ryukin Goldfish will do well in a tank of 30 gallons of water or more with a fine gravel bottom and hardy, cold water plants. Goldfish are diggers and will scatter the fine sand onto leaves, injuring thin and less hardy plants. Roots and well-rounded river rocks are a good addition to the aquarium. There appears to be a definite courtship ritual when Goldfish breed. Breeding often results in up to 1,000 eggs, with fry hatching in 5-6 days. The fry should be fed small pieces of live or prepared foods designed for egg-laying fish. Goldfish are omnivorous and will eat all types of dried and live foods. Limit protein, however, to 30% of the diet. A Goldfish flake or pellet food will provide these fish with the proper nutrition.