The shubunkin has a physical appearance that is very similar to that of the common goldfish. It was developed from variants of the telescope goldfish or Demekins. Shunkins are sometimes called calico goldfish, because they have nacreous scales, which is a mixture of transparent and metallic scales that have a somewhat pearly appearance. The overlapping patches of black, grey, blue, brown, purple, red, and white, including dark speckles, are seen throughout the shubunkin's body extending also to finnage as well. Shubunkins that have blue colors are considered more valuable. Different variants of the shubunkins are the American shubunkins, London shubunkins, and Bristol shubunkins. The fish grows to a length of 10 inches. They are easy to care and usually live more than 15 years. The ideal temperature range is 22-26 °C. It can be fed on live and commercial food such as flakes and pellets.