Wakin Goldfish (Carassius auratus) 7-9 cm

Overview

The Wakin goldfish is a classic, hardy coldwater fish prized for its graceful movement, bright colours and distinctive body shape. This 7-9 cm specimen is a young fish with plenty of growing left to do, making it a great choice for aquarists who want to enjoy the development of a beautiful goldfish over time. Scientifically, it belongs to Carassius auratus, the same species as all domestic goldfish, but the Wakin is a more streamlined, twin-tailed form that sits between the common goldfish and the fancier varieties.

Wakins are active, social and generally peaceful, but they are not small fish in the long term. Given the right space, clean water and a varied diet, they can live for many years and become a real centrepiece in a coldwater setup. They are best kept in roomy aquariums or ponds with excellent filtration and plenty of swimming space. If you are looking for a robust goldfish with a traditional look and strong personality, the Wakin is a superb choice.

At Tropical Fish Co, we select healthy stock and pack carefully for safe transport, supported by a live arrival guarantee and fast UK delivery.

Care at a Glance

Origin & Natural Habitat

The Wakin is a domesticated goldfish variety developed in East Asia from the wild carp-like ancestors of Carassius auratus. Goldfish have been bred for centuries, and the Wakin is one of the more traditional forms, valued for its balance of elegance and resilience. Unlike many highly modified fancy goldfish, Wakins retain a more athletic body and are better swimmers, which makes them well suited to cooler water and larger spaces.

In nature, the species behind goldfish is adapted to slow-moving or still freshwater habitats such as ponds, lakes, canals and rice fields. These environments are often rich in plants and organic matter, with seasonal changes in temperature and oxygen levels. That natural hardiness is one reason goldfish remain such popular coldwater fish in the hobby today. While domestic Wakins are not wild fish, their care still reflects the needs of a fish built for open water, good oxygenation and stable conditions.

Tank Setup & Water Parameters

Because Wakins grow into substantial fish, they need more room than many new hobbyists expect. A single fish can be kept in a large aquarium, but they are best maintained in a spacious setup or small group with strong filtration. For a pair or trio, a tank of at least 200 litres is a sensible starting point, with even larger volumes strongly recommended as the fish mature. In ponds, they do especially well provided the water is well maintained and the pond is large enough to support their eventual size.

Use a powerful filter to cope with the waste goldfish produce, and aim for excellent oxygenation and regular maintenance. Weekly partial water changes are important to keep nitrate low and water quality high. Substrate should be smooth and easy to clean, as goldfish like to forage along the bottom. Avoid sharp decor that could damage fins, and leave open swimming areas. Live plants can be used, but choose tough species such as Anubias, Java fern or hornwort, as goldfish may nibble or uproot softer plants.

Stable water conditions are more important than chasing exact numbers. Wakins do well in a broad range of cool to temperate freshwater conditions, typically 10-24°C, with a pH between 6.5 and 8.0. They are adaptable, but sudden changes should be avoided. If kept indoors, ensure the tank is not placed in direct sunlight or near heat sources that can cause temperature swings. Outdoors, make sure ponds are deep enough to protect fish from extreme weather and predators.

Feeding Guide

Wakin goldfish are omnivores with a healthy appetite. A good-quality goldfish pellet or sinking staple should form the basis of the diet, supplemented with vegetable matter and occasional protein-rich treats. Blanched peas, spinach, courgette and lettuce can help provide fibre and support digestion. Frozen or live foods such as bloodworm, daphnia and brine shrimp can be offered in moderation to add variety.

Feed small amounts once or twice daily, only what the fish can consume in a couple of minutes. Overfeeding is one of the most common causes of poor water quality and health issues in goldfish. Because Wakins are active swimmers, they benefit from a balanced diet that supports growth without excessive fat. For best results, soak dry foods briefly if needed and avoid relying on flakes alone, especially as the fish grow larger.

Tank Mates / Compatibility

Wakins are generally peaceful and do best with other coolwater fish that share their temperament and water requirements. Suitable companions include other goldfish varieties with similar body shape and speed, such as common goldfish, comets and other Wakins. They can also be kept with robust pond fish in appropriate outdoor setups, provided the environment is large enough and filtration is strong.

Avoid keeping them with tiny fish that may be outcompeted for food, or with delicate species that may be stressed by the goldfish’s size and activity. Very slow fancy goldfish can sometimes struggle to compete with faster Wakins at feeding time, so mixed goldfish communities should be planned carefully. In general, choose tank mates that are peaceful, coolwater tolerant and large enough not to be mistaken for food.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

At Tropical Fish Co, we focus on healthy, well-conditioned livestock and careful packing so your fish arrive in the best possible condition. We offer fast UK delivery and a live arrival guarantee for added peace of mind. Our team understands the needs of coldwater fish and can help you choose the right setup, companions and foods for long-term success.

When you buy a Wakin goldfish from us, you are choosing a hardy, attractive fish from a trusted UK aquatic specialist. Whether you are building a classic coldwater aquarium or stocking a pond, this is a rewarding species that combines beauty, resilience and character. With the right care, your Wakin can become a long-lived favourite in your collection.