The ideal setup for the Shubunkin is a pond of at least 180 gallons with a gravel substrate, rocks, and hearty plants. This fish will grow in proportion to the size of its surroundings. They like to eat the roots of plants and will dig to get to them, so provide large rocks around the base of the plants to protect them. Adequate filtration should be provided in order to maintain proper water conditions.

The male can be differentiated from the female by the concave anal section and, sometimes, breeding spots on the head. Spawning may result in as many as 1,000 eggs and the fry emerge in about six days. Feed the fry small live foods, and their color will emerge in about eight months.

Feed the Shubunkin a quality pellet or flake food that does not exceed 30% protein.

Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/2" to 2-1/2" Medium: 2-1/2" to 3-1/2"; Large: 5" to 6" ; Extra Large: 7" to 9"