Pearlscale (Carassius auratus)

Fish in the family Cyprinidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Pearlscale

Quick facts

Scientific nameCarassius auratus
FamilyCyprinidae
Also known asPearlscale Goldfish, Crown Pearlscale, Hama Nishiki, Ping Pong Pearlscale
Care levelHard
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentPeaceful
DietOmnivore
Adult size6 in
Minimum tank size20 gallons
Water parametersTemp 65-72°F, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-19 dGH

Appearance

Almost spherical golf-ball body covered in domed, pearl-like calcium-rich scales. Crown Pearlscale (Hama Nishiki) adds a single bubble-like growth on the head.

Difficulty and care for the Pearlscale

Hard

Origin and habitat

Domesticated (China)

Keeper notes

Peaceful and slow; very round body makes swimming awkward. Keep with other slow fancies and avoid sharp décor that damages the pearled scales.

Log Pearlscale in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Pearlscale alongside everything else in your reef.