The Butterfly Tail goldfish is a variety of goldfish which is also known as Butterfly telescope. It is a native Chinese goldfish that was brought to Japan in the early 1980s. It is actually not known how this variety came to exist.
It is easily distinguished by the butterfly-shaped caudal fins when viewed from above. This variety has only recently been deemed a major lineage by a few published works.
Because this tail conformation is commonly bred into the telescope eye goldfish, the term “butterfly tail” is just short for the many names this variety has such as Butterfly Tail Telescope, Butterfly Tail Demekin, Butterfly Tail Moor and Top view Telescope.
The Butterfly Tail goldfish are gaining popularity as a side viewed fish. And they are best viewed from above to get the full effect of this beautifully created tail.
It is actually a fancy variety and has been bred specifically to enhance certain colors, patterns and body characteristics (when compared with more orthodox or simply shaped goldfish such as the Comet.).
The Butterfly Tail goldfish are extremely popular with many enthusiasts as they offer some of the most unique and interesting coldwater fish available.
Currently the species is mainly used as pets. However read some more information about this goldfish variety below.
Butterfly Tail Goldfish Characteristics
The Butterfly Tail goldfish is best appreciated by viewing it from above. It is a variant form of the Telescopic Goldfish with protruding eyes.
This variation is commonly paired with the Telescope eye variation. Although the ‘butterfly shaped tails’ may be present in other goldfish standard varieties such as Ryukins or Orandas.
The tail spread is preferable 180 degrees, but some fish may droop down at an angle due to the weight of the long tail fins.
Average body size of the Butterfly Tail goldfish is around 5 inches, but they can also grow as much as 8 inches. Photo and info from Wikipedia.
Diet
The Butterfly Tail goldfish are feed on such foods which other goldfish varieties eat. They are omnivore and will also enjoy having treats of fresh veggies (just ensure that you dice anything you do feed them really small so that they don’t choke on the treats.
Breeding
Spawning of the Butterfly Tail goldfish depends on temperature. Dropping the temperature will generally inspire the fish to want to spawn.
The males chase the females around the tank once spawning begins. The males gently push the females in the stomachs into the sides of the tank and the plants.
And this encourages the females for dropping eggs, and the males fertilize them. Once the eggs are fertilized, they will attach themselves to the different plants around the tank.
Uses
The Butterfly Tail goldfish are ornamental fish. They are raised mainly as pets.
Special Notes
Caring of the Butterfly Tail goldfish is similar to that of other fancy goldfish varieties. They are not too hardy, and actually have a mid-level hardiness.
They can thrive slightly colder temperatures and actually do well for the intermediate fish keeper. In case of raising this varieties, you will need at least a 20 gallon tank.
Currently the Butterfly Tail goldfish are gaining popularity as a side viewed fish, and they are best viewed from above to get full effect of this beautifully created tail.
Average lifespan of these fish is between 10 and 15 years. However, review full breed profile of the Butterfly Tail goldfish in the table below.
| Name | Butterfly Tail Goldfish |
| Other Names | None |
| Breed Purpose | Ornamental, pet |
| Special Notes | Easy to care, caring is similar to that of other fancy goldfish varieties, not too hardy, actually have a mid-level hardiness, can thrive slightly colder temperatures, gaining popularity as a side viewed fish, used mainly for ornamental purpose |
| Size | Generally 5 inches with a maximum of 8 inches |
| Breeding Method | Artificial |
| Climate Tolerance | Almost all climates |
| Body Color | Many |
| Rarity | Common |
| Availability | Asia |
