Source: Wikimedia Commons
Butterfly Tail
IntermediateTail fins spread like butterfly wings when viewed from above. Bred in China, most impressive in top-down viewing.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
5〜30℃（適温18〜24℃）
Lifespan
10-15 years
Size
12-20cm
Diet
Goldfish pellets
About
The Butterfly Tail goldfish, developed in China, is named for its tail fins that spread horizontally like the wings of a butterfly when viewed from above. The Butterfly Telescope—combining the protruding eyes of the Telescope Eye with the distinctive butterfly-spread tail—is the most popular variant, creating a dramatic visual effect from the top-down perspective. Because the tail's beauty is best appreciated from above, shallow tanks or basins designed for top-view observation are strongly recommended. Like Telescope Eye goldfish, Butterfly Tails have impaired vision and slow swimming speed, requiring a tank free of sharp objects and separation from more active fish. Water temperature of 15–25°C and consistent water quality are important for maintaining the integrity and appearance of the delicate fins.
Basic Info
Origin
China
Lifespan
10-15 years
Size
12-20cm
Temperature
5〜30℃（適温18〜24℃）
Diet
Goldfish pellets
Care Guide
Tank
Shallow tank recommended for top-viewing
Temperature
15-25°C
Tail
Environment that protects large tail fins
Flow
Gentle water flow
Notes
Often telescope-eyed — beware of eye injuries
Top-viewingButterfly tailChinese varietyTelescope type
Butterfly Tail FAQ
QHow difficult is it to keep Butterfly Tail?
A
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Butterfly Tail?
A
The ideal temperature for Butterfly Tail is 5〜30℃（適温18〜24℃）. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Butterfly Tail?
A
The average lifespan of Butterfly Tail is 10-15 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
QHow large does Butterfly Tail get?
A
Butterfly Tail typically reaches 12-20cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
QWhat should I feed Butterfly Tail?
A
Butterfly Tail feeds on: Goldfish pellets. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
QWhat is the typical price for Butterfly Tail?
A
The price of Butterfly Tail varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Care Specifications
- pH
- 6–8
- Hardness (GH)
- 5–19 dGH
- Water Temp.
- 18–23℃
PeacefulGroupBreeding: Moderate
Sources: FishBase / Aqueon Goldfish Care Guide
Morphs (Varieties)
金魚品種は体型・尾型・鱗・色の選抜固定(line-bred)。出目・透明鱗(キャリコ)・白子等は単一座。
RecessiveVisual only with two copies; one copy = het (carrier).
Protruding (telescope) eyes
Line-bredEstablished by selective line breeding.
Deep body / dorsal humpButterfly tail
Sources: Wikipedia - Goldfish (Varieties) / 金魚 - Wikipedia (日本語版・品種)
A curated selection of notable morphs. Inheritance modes are a breeding-planning guide; actual appearance varies with combos.
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: (Linnaeus, 1758)
Synonyms: Cyprinus auratus Linnaeus, 1758, Carassius auratus auratus (Linnaeus, 1758), Cyprinus thoracatus Valenciennes, 1842, Carassius burgeri Temminck & Schlegel, 1846, Cyprinus chinensis Gronow, 1854
Authority databases: FishBase · GBIF · FishBase: Carassius auratus · GBIF: Carassius auratus
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Related Species
Butterfly Tail Listings
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