Goldfish
The goldfish (Carassius auratus auratus) is a domesticated version of a wild carp, probably the Crucian carp. In China, goldfish has been selectively bred in ponds for several centuries and our modern day goldfish differs considerably from its wild ancestors. The flamboyant colours displayed by the goldfish would make them easy to spot for predators in the wild and some goldfish types are very clumsy swimmers due to their outlandish fins. Wild Chinese carps are dark grey or olive-brown to better elude the eyes of hungry predators. Goldfish are traditionally divided into four different groups based on an old Chinese system. 1. Ce goldfish / Grass goldfish This group includes the Common goldfish and other goldfish without any “fancy” features except their colours. 2. Wen goldfish Wen goldfish have a fancy tail (and is not without dorsal fin). The Fantail goldfish with its large dual-lobed tail is a well known example of a goldfish belonging to this group. 3. Egg goldfish Goldfish without any dorsal fin, e.g. the Japanese Ranchu goldfish, are known as Egg goldfish. 4. Dragon Eye goldfish The distinguishing feature of Dragon Eye goldfish are the protruding eyes. In this group you will for instance find the Bubble Eye goldfish.
