Space for Shubunkins?

[howfunkyisurchicken]

They'll be fine in that tank while you grow them out a little. Just be sure to do frequent water changes and filter the gravel really well.
I had Shubunkins (and butterfly Koi) in my ornamental pond for a long time. Most of them were a good 8-10" before my neighbors cats wiped them out. I'd had them for almost 7 years

 

[Windrider]

I can't see what filtration you have on that 8 gallon, but as long as you have a power filter appropriate for that size aquarium you should be good. I wouldn't rely on bubbler types.

There will be lots of variables contributing to your shubunkin's growth. Like most goldfish, they can grow extremely fast if the conditions are ideal, though I think shubunkins grow just a little slower that plain old goldfish. I don't know where in the country you are, but you are likely wanting to put these little guys in the pond in the spring, right? That should be doable with the right conditions.

To get the fastest growth from them:
Keep water very clean and well oxygenated and change some of the water regularly to avoid growth inhibiting hormones from building up.
Feed an appropriate amount of good quality goldfish food (I like mini pellets for small goldfish)
Keep water temperature at a slightly cool room temperature - too warm or too cold slows growth. Goldfish can survive VERY low temperatures but they don't grow at all when it is cold - if it is as warm as for tropicals then you can have problems with disease.

Just remember that even a fully adult, ten inch shubunkin can still fall prey to raccoons and cats - give them some deep water once they are outside! Good luck and keep us posted!

 

[SwedishDude99]

I have a small filter that I had in a two and a half gallon tank but I'm planning on buying another because I can't see this being enough. I'll post a pic anyway though.

Another question. I have these rocks at the bottom. Should I stick with these or switch to something like sand or gravel? I'm new to goldfish so in just want to be positive about everything. Sorry for all the questions I have.

 

[SwedishDude99]

Oh and I live in Folsom, Ca. Our winters get to about 40 degrees F. So should spring be a good time to transfer them or would It be okay to do sooner?

 

[SwedishDude99]

Okay so here is another question. I am deciding on when to get my fish. This is a new tank so it's is not cycled. Should I wait the couple weeks for it to cycle or are goldfish hardy enough to where they can be in the tank as long as it sits for a couple days and is not completely cycled?

 

[SwedishDude99]

Anyone?

 

[howfunkyisurchicken]

Yes, wait a few weeks so your tank can grow beneficial bacteria. I wouldn't add the fish to your pond until spring, so you don't shock them.

As far as the filters, I would definitely add another. Probably a ten gallon filter to go along with the one you've already got. The bigger gravel is better, since goldfish are big rooters and always picking up rocks. Good luck