Calico Dragon Eye Short Tail 12cm

Calico Dragon Eye Short Tail

Fancy goldfish have been selectively bred for centuries to produce some of the most visually unique fish in the aquarium hobby, and the Calico Dragon Eye Short Tail is a perfect example of just how dramatic these variations can become. Combining the distinctive protruding "dragon eye" telescope eyes with a rounded short-tail body and classic calico colouration, this fish instantly becomes the focal point of any fancy goldfish aquarium.

The Calico Dragon Eye Short Tail displays a rounded, deep-bodied profile with a compact tail structure that gives it a slightly stockier and more balanced appearance compared to longer-finned telescope varieties. Their most striking feature is the pair of protruding telescope eyes, which extend outward from the sides of the head, giving the fish its "dragon eye" appearance. The calico colouration consists of a beautiful patchwork of orange, black, white, blue-grey, and translucent scaling spread across the body and fins. Under aquarium lighting, the metallic and nacreous scales shimmer subtly, creating a constantly changing visual effect as the fish moves. The shorter tail also gives these fish slightly stronger swimming ability compared to some long-tailed fancy varieties.

Sexing these goldfish is difficult outside of breeding season, as males and females appear very similar. During breeding season, males will develop small white breeding tubercles along the gill plates and pectoral fins and begin chasing females. The female scatters eggs across plants, spawning mops, or aquarium décor, where they are fertilised externally.

Tank Recommendations for your Calico Dragon Eye Short Tail

Fancy goldfish are best suited to aquariums designed specifically around their slower swimming behaviour. A minimum aquarium size of 150 litres is recommended, depending on stocking levels. Because of their protruding eyes, sharp décor, and rough rockwork should always be avoided. A simple aquascape with smooth, rounded décor, open swimming areas, and strong filtration works best. Fancy goldfish produce a considerable amount of waste, so regular maintenance and efficient filtration are essential for long-term health.

Suitable Tank Buddies

These fish are peaceful and best kept with other fancy goldfish varieties.

Usually Compatible

Ranchu, oranda, lionhead, and other telescope or fancy goldfish.

Sometimes Compatible

Other slower-moving goldfish varieties.

Rarely Compatible

Fast-swimming comets or common goldfish may outcompete them.

Feeding your Calico Dragon Eye Short Tail

These fish will take a wide range of pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. Due to their rounded, compact body shape, it is always best to offer sinking foods that are easy to digest. Just like any fish, they should be fed a varied diet with a mix of different foods. The ideal diet would be a high-quality sinking goldfish pellet, supplemented with frozen bloodworms, blackworms, or even small portions of blanched peas and spinach.