Common

Common, in goldfish records, usually means the standard single-tailed form of Carassius auratus rather than a fancy breed with altered eyes, fins, or body shape. These fish have a carp-like outline, normal eyes, a single caudal fin, and strong swimming ability. Color may be orange, red, yellow, white, bronze, black, or mixed, and young fish often begin olive-brown before turning brighter. The common form is closest in build to the early domesticated goldfish that were selected from East Asian carp relatives.

In human care, common goldfish are used for ponds, large aquariums, teaching collections, and sometimes as feeder fish, though feeder sources can carry disease and poor genetics. They become sizable, long-lived fish when not stunted by small tanks, so filtration and water volume matter more than a decorative bowl. Commons are compatible with other fast single-tailed goldfish and koi of appropriate size, but they outcompete most fancy varieties. Responsible keepers do not release extras into local waters, where goldfish can disturb sediment and native aquatic life.

Colors: Black, Black and Orange, Black and White, Blue-Gray, Bronze, Brown, Calico, Chocolate, Gold, Lavender, Matte, Metallic, Nacreous, Orange, Panda, Red, Red and White, Red & White, White, Yellow