Fantail Goldfish

About the Fantail Goldfish

The Fantail Goldfish is one of the most popular and hardy fancy goldfish varieties, recognised for its rounded body, elegant double tail, and graceful swimming style. As one of the oldest selectively bred goldfish, the Fantail is highly regarded for its beauty, resilience, and suitability for both beginner and experienced fishkeepers.

Available in a wide variety of colours including orange, red, white, black, calico, chocolate, and bi-colour patterns, Fantail Goldfish make a stunning addition to aquariums and indoor ponds. Their flowing double tail and rounded body create an elegant appearance while remaining stronger swimmers than many other fancy goldfish varieties.

Fantails are peaceful, social fish that thrive when kept with other fancy goldfish such as Orandas, Ranchus, Ryukins, and Lionheads. They require spacious aquariums with excellent filtration and plenty of open swimming space. A varied diet of premium sinking goldfish pellets, gel foods, fresh vegetables, and frozen foods will support healthy growth, vibrant colours, and long-term health.

Hardy, interactive, and full of personality, the Fantail Goldfish is one of the best choices for anyone looking to keep beautiful fancy goldfish.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name

Carassius auratus

Common Name

Fantail Goldfish

Origin

Captive-bred ornamental variety

Adult Size

15–20 cm

Temperament

Peaceful

Diet

Omnivore

Minimum Tank Size

150 Litres (for a pair)

Temperature

18–24°C

pH

6.8–7.8

Water Hardness

5–18 dGH

Difficulty

Beginner

Lifespan

10–20 Years

Suitable For

Fancy goldfish aquariums and indoor ponds

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Fantail Goldfish good for beginners?

Yes. Fantail Goldfish are one of the hardiest fancy goldfish varieties and are an excellent choice for beginners.

Can Fantail Goldfish live with tropical fish?

No. Fantails prefer cooler water temperatures and should be kept with other fancy goldfish rather than tropical fish.

What do Fantail Goldfish eat?

They thrive on premium sinking goldfish pellets, gel foods, blanched vegetables such as peas and spinach, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.

How large do Fantail Goldfish grow?

Most Fantails grow to between 15 and 20 cm, although larger specimens are possible with excellent care.

Can Fantail Goldfish live in ponds?

Yes. Fantails can thrive in predator-free ponds with good water quality, though they should be housed with other fancy goldfish rather than fast-swimming single-tail varieties.

Common Mistakes

Feeding floating foods

Floating foods can increase the risk of buoyancy and digestive issues. Sinking foods are recommended.

Keeping them with Common or Comet Goldfish

Fast-swimming goldfish often outcompete Fantails for food and may cause unnecessary stress.

Poor filtration

Goldfish produce large amounts of waste and require powerful filtration and regular maintenance.

Overfeeding

Excess food can lead to obesity, poor water quality, and swim bladder issues.

Keeping them in bowls

Fantail Goldfish require spacious, filtered aquariums or ponds and should never be kept in small bowls.