Which goldfish should I get?

[thekoimaiden]

Originally Posted by Bombalurina

Is a shubunkin just a calico comet, or is there a difference?

Uhh.. kinda. It really depends on whether you are going on pet store quality fish or show quality fish. Just the pet store quality, the only real difference between comets and shubunkins is the coloring. With show shubunkins you'll find their tails have a rounded edge unlike the pointed edge of comets. Comets also have slightly longer tails. For size difference, I've heard that shubunkins tend to stay smaller, but all of the pond shubunkins I've seen have been 10+ inch fish. I guess it depends on the pond and the care given to it.

So just get the ones that you think are the prettiest! My favorite coloring was on a comet that was pure white with only a circle of red on his head. Much like the tancho koi.

[Tikibirds]

voted for shubkin - i like color variety

[Bombalurina]

Thank you very much to everyone who voted. :) Fortunately/unfortunately, the decision has kind of been made for me - a friend is looking to rehome two comets as she has realised she can't provide the care they need. So, they'll be upgraded from their smaller tank to my big pond! :D That is just as good as being able to choose my own fish, to my mind. :)