Types of Goldfish: Pearlscale Goldfish

Did you miss the previous type of goldfish? We’ll see you when you get back!

Pearlscale Goldfish may be one of the most comical looking goldies yet! They are purposely bred to have a very deep, rounded body that causes them to appear to waddle around the tank – even more so than an adult Oranda. Their scales are meant to protrude out from the body, similar to little beads – this is the reason behind the name Pearlscale.

However, please don’t confuse a Pearlscale’s upraised scales to a fish that is exhibiting the symptom Dropsy ( Yes, it’s a symptom not a disease). Every scale on a healthy Pearlscale will connect completely to the body. However, a fish that has developed Dropsy will have scales that ‘pine cone’ out from the body. It is very easy to distinguish between a Pearlscale and a pine-coned fish by taking a look at their profile from above.

A Pearlscale is movement impaired, which is pretty easy to see once you have watched one swim around for a few minutes! Different fish have varying degrees of roundness, but they all move pretty slowly in comparison to the other types of Goldfish out there.

Ready to read about the next type of goldfish?

Like what you read? Check this out!

Download my FREE guide that will help you troubleshoot your aquarium. You'll learn... How to get rid of pest snails What to do when fish gasp at the surface ...and much more

Enter your name and email below to get Instant Access!