Nymph (goldfish)
| Nymph (goldfish) | |
|---|---|
| |
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Size | Variable |
| Tank Level | All |
| Temperament | Peaceful, Schooling |
| Tail Type | Single-tailed |
| Country of Origin | USA |
For an in depth tutorial, see our guide
The Nymph goldfish is a breed of goldfish closely related to the Fantail and Veiltail breeds. Nymphs are rarely bred on purpose, but are instead the product of recessive genes being passed down from Veiltail or Fantail parents. Unlike the Fantail and Veiltail breeds, the Nymph has only a single tail.
Physical description
The color of the relatively deep-bodied Nymph varies according to scale formation - the one shown here shows coloring similar to that of a Ryukin. Unlike its close cousins, the Fantail and Veiltail, this fish has single anal and caudal fins. The dorsal fin is held high. Pectoral and pelvic fins are usually well produced and add to the gracefulness of the fish. The eyes can be normal or protuberant ("telescopic)".
History
Traditionally the Nymph is regarded as a recessive, or anomaly, due to it usually being found among the offspring of a Fantail or a Veiltail. However, this fish should be treated as a separate breed due to the clear differences in ability of the fish to swim. While Fantails and Veiltails are usually slower moving and have difficulty manoeuvring, the Nymph has no such problems, and is in fact one of the faster and more versatile strains of goldfish (second only to the Comet and Common Goldfish).
Not much is known about the origins of the species as far as first sightings, etc., but it is generally accepted that the fish is of western descent, most likely from the USA.
In the aquarium
The Nymph behaves much like any other goldfish, in that it is a peaceful, schooling fish, and will accept all the normal foods. It inhabits all levels of the tank, and is an established swimmer. Nymphs are hardy species, and as such, will not be harmed by "overwintering" in outdoor ponds.