
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Tail fins spread like butterfly wings when viewed from above. Bred in China, most impressive in top-down viewing.
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.
The Butterfly Tail lives 10-15 years.
The Butterfly Tail grows to 12-20cm.
The ideal temperature for the Butterfly Tail is 15〜25℃.
Water temperature of 15–25°C and consistent water quality are important for maintaining the integrity and appearance of the delicate fins.
Origin
China
Lifespan
10-15 years
Size
12-20cm
Sources: FishBase / Aqueon Goldfish Care Guide
Goldfish varieties are line-bred for body shape, tail type, scale type, and coloration. Traits such as protruding eyes, transparent scales (calico), and albinism are single-locus traits.
Sources: Wikipedia - Goldfish (Varieties) / Goldfish — Wikipedia (Japanese edition, varieties)
A curated selection of notable morphs. Inheritance modes are a breeding-planning guide; actual appearance varies with combos.
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
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.
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Temperature
15〜25℃
Goldfish pellets
Since the spread of the tail seen from above is the highlight, a shallow tank or tub for top viewing is recommended. Provide ample swimming space.
The ideal temperature is 15-25°C. Clean water is the basis of health care, so never skip regular water changes.
Keep the flow gentle to preserve the butterfly tail's shape. Avoid sharp decorations so the eyes and fins are not injured.
Gentle and easygoing, but a poor swimmer with weak eyesight, so avoid keeping it with fast-swimming varieties.
Environment that protects large tail fins
Often telescope-eyed — beware of eye injuries
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Butterfly Tail is 15〜25℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Butterfly Tail is 10-15 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Butterfly Tail typically reaches 12-20cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Butterfly Tail feeds on: Goldfish pellets. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Butterfly Tail varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026