Goldfish Care Guide

The Fantail is the most robust of all the twin-tailed goldfish. Indeed, despite its high dorsal fin and flamboyant caudal (tail) fin, the Fantail Goldfish has no problem swimming at at all, even in moderate currents.

As you watch these fish moving about your dealer’s tanks, you’ll soon appreciate how the Fantail Goldfish got its name. From behind, its tail really does look like a fan. The tail should be evenly divided and proudly held. The body of the Fantail should be short, almost egg-like, rather than elongated like the body of the Comet Goldfish. With good care, they typically grow to about six inches long.

Fantail goldfish come in a great many colours; a mottled mix of orange, white, black, silver and gold are most common in the shops. Pure metallic red Fantails are popular, too, as are the more blue-black calico variety.

Fantail Goldfish tips:

• You want to choose bright and alert specimens. No drooping fins or tail.
• Some shops sell Fantails with very long fins, but enthusiasts prefer a more balanced fish.
• Fantails are the hardiest twin-tailed goldfish, and can live outside all year in ponds.
• If over-wintering outdoors, ensure the pond has a deep area to provide protection from freezing conditions.
• Fantail goldfish are sociable fish, so please keep them in shoals of at least three specimens.

Fantails can live for well over a decade in good conditions, so it makes sense to choose carefully before you buy your new pets.

Filed in: Varieties