Description
The Butterfly Tail Red and White is a selectively bred variety of fancy goldfish, distinguished by its vibrant colouring and ornate caudal fins. Originating from traditional Chinese breeding practices, it is prized for its graceful appearance and tranquil nature. A member of the Carassius auratus species, this goldfish is a popular choice among aquarists seeking aesthetic appeal combined with peaceful temperament. Proper husbandry is essential to maintain the health and beauty of this delicate fish.
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Features of a Butterfly Tail Tricolour
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Broad, horizontally spread tail resembling butterfly wings when viewed from above
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A bicolor fish with distinct patches of red (bright orange) and white. The distribution of red and white varies by fish—some may have red heads and white bodies, or vice versa.
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Rounded, egg-shaped body with no dorsal fin in some strains
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Double anal and caudal fins, characteristic of fancy goldfish
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Poor swimming ability due to compact body and large fins
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Can reach up to 20 cm in length under optimal conditions
The Best Aquarium Size for Butterfly Tail Red and White
A single Butterfly Tail Red and White requires a minimum of 75 litres of water. For each additional fish, allow an extra 35–40 litres to ensure ample swimming space and water quality stability. Overcrowding should be avoided as it leads to stress and increases disease susceptibility.
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Tank Mate Compatibility for Butterfly Tail Red and White
Due to their gentle nature and limited mobility, Butterfly Tail Red Medium should be housed with similarly peaceful, slow-swimming species. Suitable tank mates include:
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Ranchu Goldfish
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Pearlscale Goldfish
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Oranda Goldfish
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Telescope Goldfish
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White Cloud Mountain Minnows
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Dojo Loaches
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Diet for Butterfly Tail Red and White
Provide a varied diet consisting of high-quality sinking pellets, gel foods, and blanched vegetables such as spinach and peas. Occasional protein sources like bloodworms or brine shrimp may be offered. Avoid floating foods, which can cause swim bladder issues in fancy goldfish.
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Aquarium Setup for Butterfly Tail Red and White
Aquarium Filtration
Use a low-flow, high-efficiency filtration system. Canister filters with adjustable flow are preferred to prevent strong currents that can tire or damage the fish’s delicate fins.
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Aquarium Plants
Choose soft-leaved, broad-leaf plants like Anubias or Java Fern. Live plants help with water quality and reduce stress but must be arranged to prevent fin tearing.
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Aquarium Lighting
Moderate lighting is ideal. Ensure a consistent day/night cycle of 8–10 hours to maintain fish health and plant growth without promoting algae.
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Aquarium Heating
Maintain water temperature between 20°C and 23°C. While goldfish are cold-water fish, stable temperatures are critical for fancy varieties.
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Aquarium Substrate
Smooth, rounded gravel or sand is ideal to prevent injury. Avoid sharp materials that may damage the fins or be ingested.
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Aquarium Decorations
Use smooth, stable decorations free of sharp edges. Provide open space for swimming and gentle hiding spots to reduce stress.
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