| Shubunkin | |
 |
|
 Name |
Shubunkin |
| Japanese name |
Shubunkin |
| Year of Origin |
1892 |
| Country of Origin |
Japan |
| Breeder |
Yoshigoro Akiyama I |
| History/ Background |
In 1892, Yoshigoro Akiyama I created the Shubunkin by cross-breeding the
Calico Telescope, the common goldfish and the single-tail Wakin. In 1900, the Shubunkin was named by Shinosuke Matsubara, from the Fisheries Educational Institution of the Ministry of Agriculture and Commerce, and was revealed to the public in 1902. It was named ‘Shubunkin’ due to its bright red and blue body color, similar to a kimono. |
| Features |
The Shukubun’s body shape is the same shape as the Wakin with a long flowing
tail, and its body color is a mixture of red, blue, white and black that
exudes a Japanese atmosphere. Another characteristic of its body is its
mosaic, transparent scales. Except for the body color, they have same body shape as the Comet. Since Crucian Carps are in this breed, they are very strong and have a long life expectancy. |
| Acquisition difficulties |
Easy. The Shubunkin is a familiar kind of goldfish to the Japanese and can be acquired easily. They are also sold at normal goldfish shops and home centers. |
| Rearing difficulties |
Easy. They are strong and live for a long time. They can grow up to more than 30 centimeters in length if raised in a big tank. |
| Details of the above photo |
The goldfish in the photo received first prize in the Shubunkin Parent division at the 2006 Goldfish Evaluation Convention in Shizuoka Prefecture. Traditionally, they are viewed from the side. |
| Other |
The Bristol Shubunkin, an evolved kind of Japanese Shubunkin, has a heart-shaped tail and was created in Britain. It was bred by avid goldfish lovers in Britain and has not been exported to other countries for very long. However, a few of them have recently started to be imported to Japan. |
