Source: Wikimedia Commons
Tamasaba
BeginnerOriginated in Yamagata. Ryukin body with wakin-like long tail. Hardy, suitable for outdoor ponds, and strong swimmer.
Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
5〜30℃（適温18〜24℃）
Lifespan
10-15 years
Size
15-25cm
Diet
Goldfish pellets
About
The Tamasaba, also known as Sabao, is a rare Japanese goldfish variety originating from Niigata and Yamagata Prefectures in northern Japan. It is distinguished by combining a round, Ryukin-like body with a long, flowing single (mackerel-style) tail fin—an unusual pairing that creates a unique visual balance. The most common coloration is red-and-white sarasa; other color variations are uncommon. The Tamasaba is exceptionally cold-hardy, thriving across a wide temperature range of 5–30°C, which makes it one of the few fancy goldfish varieties truly suited to unheated outdoor pond keeping in cold climates. It is active and hearty with a strong appetite. Somewhat uncommon outside its native region, the Tamasaba is cherished in the Tohoku region as a local heritage breed.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Basic Info
Origin
Japan (Niigata and Yamagata Prefectures)
Lifespan
10-15 years
Size
15-25cm
Temperature
5〜30℃（適温18〜24℃）
Diet
Goldfish pellets
Care Guide
Tank
Outdoor keeping possible. 60L+
Temperature
5-30°C (cold-resistant)
Hardiness
Very hardy for a fancy goldfish
Swimming
Strong swimmer and active
Notes
Mainly distributed in Tohoku region — somewhat hard to find
Yamagata originHardyOutdoor OKActive
Tamasaba FAQ
QHow difficult is it to keep Tamasaba?
A
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Tamasaba?
A
The ideal temperature for Tamasaba is 5〜30℃（適温18〜24℃）. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Tamasaba?
A
The average lifespan of Tamasaba is 10-15 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Tamasaba Q&A
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