Pearlscale Goldfish are a fancy variety of goldfish, easily recognized by their round, plump bodies and unique, domed scales that resemble pearls. These scales are caused by a thick layer of calcium carbonate, giving them a bumpy, bead-like texture that makes them especially distinctive. They can grow to around 6–8 inches in length, with some even reaching 10 inches under ideal conditions.
Pearlscales come in various colors, including white, red, orange, and calico patterns. They have a slow and gentle nature, making them well-suited to peaceful community tanks with other goldfish varieties. Due to their round body shape, they can be prone to swim bladder issues, so it’s important to feed them a balanced diet, including high-fiber foods like peas to help with digestion.
These goldfish need a tank with gentle filtration, as they aren’t strong swimmers. Pearlscales also benefit from spacious tanks (at least 20 gallons for one) to move around comfortably. They thrive in stable, slightly cooler water temperatures around 65–75°F and should be kept in well-maintained tanks to prevent scale and fin damage.