Pearlscale goldfish

A rounded body covered with regularly domed pearl-like scales

Raised scales are the key distinction from an ordinary fantail, together with a rounder outline. The illustrated smooth-headed, short-finned form differs from hooded or long-finned variants; all remain the same goldfish species.

Adult length

About 10 cm

Lifespan

Up to 30 years

pH

7–8.4

Hardness

5–19 dGH

Natural habitat

Wild habitats include rivers, lakes, ponds and ditches, often in vegetated still or slow water; ornamental goldfish are domesticated forms.

Choose companions around actual swimming and feeding ability and avoid abrasive decor. The image cannot assess whether scale changes on a real fish are healthy. Swimming and feeding ability vary among forms. Provide filtration, oxygenation and maintenance.