Shubunkin Fish Breed

Popular goldfish breeds like the Shubunkin are prized for having stunning calico coloring. They are resilient fish that can survive in a range of aquatic environments, making them a wonderful option for fishkeepers of all levels. Shubunkins need a roomy tank or pond because they are a big fish that may grow up to 18 inches in length.

Contents

Shubunkin Fish Breed History Appearance Care Diet Breeding Price

History

Early in the twentieth century, shubunkin fish were first bred in Japan. They were produced by breeding calico telescope eye goldfish with normal goldfish. A stunning calico goldfish with a long, slender body and a fully formed tail fin was the outcome. Shubunkin fish gained popularity immediately in Japan and were soon exported to other countries.

Appearance

Shubunkin fish have calico coloring, which distinguishes them. They have spots of red, white, black, and blue on their bodies as a result. These colors can appear in fish with a variety of patterns, from fish with a few minor patches to fish with a practically uniform calico coloring. The body of shubunkin fish is long and slender, and their tail fins are well-developed.

Care

Shubunkin fish are tough fish, but they do need some basic maintenance. They must be kept in a tank or pond with a minimum capacity of 30 gallons. It is recommended to maintain the water’s temperature between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Shubunkin fish also require a filter to maintain clean water.

Diet

Shubunkin fish need a diet that contains both plant and animal stuff because they are omnivores. Various feeds, including flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, and bloodworms, can be given to them.

Breeding

Shubunkin fish may be bred rather easily. When the water is warm, in the spring or summer, they will spawn. The female will deposit her eggs on aquatic plants or other pond or tank inhabitants. In approximately 2-3 days, the eggs will hatch, and in about 5-7 days, the fry will be able to swim freely.

Price

Shubunkin fish are available in a variety of sizes, colors, and prices. A Shubunkin fish can cost anywhere between Rs. 40 and Rs. 100 in India.

Shubunkin fish, often referred to as “The Poor Man’s Koi,” is a delightful and visually striking variety of goldfish. With their beautiful and diverse color patterns, graceful body shape, and active nature, Shubunkins have become a popular choice for fish keepers of all levels.

Breeding Shubunkin fish can be a rewarding experience, but it requires knowledge, attention to detail, and dedication. In this guide, we will explore the key aspects of Shubunkin fish breeding.

Selecting Healthy Breeding Stock: The first step in successful breeding is to choose healthy adult Shubunkin fish as your breeding stock. Look for fish that are lively, without any signs of illness, and have vibrant colors with well-developed fins. Males tend to have smaller, more slender bodies, and during the breeding season, they may develop small white breeding tubercles on their gill covers and pectoral fins.
Preparing the Breeding Environment: Set up a separate breeding tank with a capacity of at least 20 gallons. Use a sponge filter or gentle air-driven filtration system to avoid harming the delicate fry. The water temperature should be maintained between 68-74°F (20-23°C), and a pH level of 7.0-8.0 is suitable.
Conditioning the Breeders: Before introducing the fish to the breeding tank, it is crucial to condition them properly. Feed them a balanced diet of high-quality pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods to ensure they are in peak reproductive condition. Conditioning may take several weeks.
Pairing the Shubunkins: Place the selected male and female Shubunkin fish together in the breeding tank. Males may display chasing behavior initially, and if the female is ready to spawn, she will lead him to a suitable location for egg deposition.
The Spawning Process: Shubunkins are egg scatterers, and during spawning, the female will release eggs while the male fertilizes them. The adhesive eggs will attach to plants, tank walls, or other surfaces near the spawning site. Once the spawning is complete, promptly remove the adult fish from the tank to prevent them from consuming the eggs.
Caring for the Eggs and Fry: The eggs will hatch within 3-7 days, depending on water temperature. Once the fry are free-swimming, they need to be fed small, nutritious foods like baby brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes. Provide hiding spots, such as live plants or spawning mops, to help reduce stress on the fry.
Fry Growth and Development: As the fry grows, they will require frequent feedings and clean water conditions to thrive. Regular water changes are essential to maintain water quality and promote healthy growth. As they mature, their unique color patterns and graceful body shape will become more apparent.

Conclusion

Shubunkin fish are attractive and durable fish that add beauty and variety to ponds and aquariums. Both their maintenance and reproduction are reasonably simple. A Shubunkin is a fantastic choice if you want a vibrant and active fish.