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Carassius auratus
The line of the pearlscale, whose scales sit like halved pearls, that also develops head growth. Fish whose two rounded lumps are large, distinct and evenly matched are the ones held in highest regard.
Crown pearl denotes the line of the pearlscale that also develops head growth. The pearlscale is Chinese and reached Japan in the 1950s and 60s. Its name comes from the scales, each raised and white like a halved pearl; pearl scaling is held to have appeared in China in 1848. The white swelling forms as a calcium-like substance accumulates in the sac-like part of the thickened scale. Crown pearls occur in both normal-scaled and transparent-scaled forms, and the best fish are those with two rounded lumps on the crown of the head, especially where the two are large, clearly separated and evenly matched. It is a popular variety, imported from China in a range of sizes and colours.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Crown Pearlscale lives 5-6 years.
The ideal temperature for the Crown Pearlscale is 15〜28℃.
Origin
China (the pearlscale reached Japan in the 1950s and 60s)
Lifespan
5-6 years
Temperature
15〜28℃
Prepared foods, frozen bloodworms
Sources: FishBase (Carassius auratus) / Keihan Nishikigoi Center: goldfish water management / Kingyo Hitosuji: Crown Pearl
Goldfish varieties arose from fixed mutations and selective breeding, and body form, tail form, scale type, colour and head growth are all carried forward by selection over generations. Inheritance is therefore shown as line-bred throughout rather than split into dominant and recessive.
Sources: Kingyo Hitosuji: Crown Pearl
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.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / FishBase (Carassius auratus)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Diffuse lighting best shows the grain of the pearl scales and the shape of the head growth. Strong light from directly above tends to flatten the relief of the scales.
Use a simple layout without sharp edges so the thickened pearl scales are not scraped, and keep the flow gentle. The type is sensitive to cold, so do not let winter temperatures fall too far.
It does not swim well, so pair it with equally slow fish such as the ping-pong pearl or the bubble eye. Wakin types and comets will outcompete it for food.
Head growth suffers when water quality declines and rarely recovers. It is a different fish from the hamanishiki, whose head growth is more developed and blister-like, and the two are sometimes confused in shops.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Crown Pearlscale is 15〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Crown Pearlscale is 5-6 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Crown Pearlscale feeds on: Prepared foods, frozen bloodworms. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Crown Pearlscale varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 16, 2026