
AI-generated image
Originated in Yamagata. Ryukin body with wakin-like long tail. Hardy, suitable for outdoor ponds, and strong swimmer.
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)
Origin
Japan (Niigata and Yamagata Prefectures)
Lifespan
10-15 years
Size
15-25cm
Temperature
5〜30℃(適温18〜24℃)
Goldfish pellets
Outdoor keeping possible. 60L+
Sources: FishBase / Aqueon Goldfish Care Guide
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。
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.
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.
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.
Find listings for this species
5-30°C (cold-resistant)
Very hardy for a fancy goldfish
Strong swimmer and active
Mainly distributed in Tohoku region — somewhat hard to find
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Tamasaba is 5〜30℃(適温18〜24℃). Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Tamasaba is 10-15 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Tamasaba typically reaches 15-25cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Tamasaba feeds on: Goldfish pellets. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Tamasaba varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026