Assorted Bubble Eye

Introduction

The Assorted Bubble Eye goldfish is one of the most whimsical and distinctive varieties of fancy goldfish. Its most notable feature is the pair of large, fluid-filled sacs beneath its eyes, which give the fish a curious, balloon-like appearance. These goldfish come in a range of colors, including red, orange, white, and calico.

Scientific Name

Carassius auratus (Fancy variety – Bubble Eye)

Common Name

• Bubble Eye Goldfish

• Assorted Bubble Eye

Water Quality and Temperature

• Temperature: 18°C – 22°C (64°F – 72°F)

• pH: 6.5 – 7.5

• Hardness: 5 – 19 dGH

• Requires a clean, well-filtered tank with stable parameters

• Avoid sharp decor or strong currents that may damage the delicate eye sacs

Feeding

• Omnivorous with a preference for:

  • High-quality goldfish pellets and flakes

  • Frozen or live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, bloodworms

  • Blanched vegetables like peas or spinach

• Feed 2–3 times a day in small amounts to avoid bloating

Tank Mates

• Best kept with other slow-moving, delicate fancy goldfish

• Suitable companions:

  • Telescope Goldfish

  • Ranchu

  • Oranda

  • Lionhead

• Avoid faster or nippy fish (e.g., common goldfish, barbs) that may outcompete or damage them

Substrates and Tank Decorations

• Use smooth sand or rounded gravel

• Decor should be soft and free of sharp edges

• Provide open swimming space and low-flow filtration

• Avoid strong currents or bubbling ornaments that may disturb the sacs

Suitable Plants

• Java Fern

• Anubias

• Hornwort

• Marimo Moss Balls

• Use silk or real plants to avoid injury to the eye bubbles

Sexing

• Males may develop small breeding tubercles (white spots) on their gill covers during breeding season

• Females often appear rounder when carrying eggs

• Sexing can be tricky outside of breeding season

Breeding

• Egg layers that can be bred in a controlled environment

• Males chase females during spawning

• Provide spawning mops or soft plants for egg laying

• Remove parents after spawning to prevent egg-eating

• Fry require infusoria or specialized fry food after hatching

Maximum Size and Longevity

• Size: Up to 12 cm (5 inches)

• Lifespan: 10 – 15 years with excellent care

General Information

Bubble Eye goldfish require a bit more care due to their fragile eye sacs, which can be injured easily. Their limited vision and awkward swimming style make them vulnerable in community tanks. Despite this, they are a charming and peaceful species perfect for a slow-paced, well-maintained aquarium.

A Fun Fact

The eye bubbles of Bubble Eye goldfish can actually regenerate to a degree if punctured, though this is stressful and risky—making gentle tank design a must!