Pompom Goldfish
The Pompom goldfish is a type of fancy goldfish that can trace its origins back to China. However, some fish experts also state that the Pompom goldfish also originated in Japan. The appearance of the Pompom goldfish is slightly similar to that of the Lionhead goldfish, at least in the shape of its body, as well as the placement of the fins. However, the most distinguishing feature of the Pompom goldfish is the two fleshy knobs that extend out the front of its head. These growths are fairly spherical in shape, and are said to look like the pompoms of a cheerleader. The size of these pompoms is said to vary, and may not be proportionately even in all fish. In addition to this, the length at which these growths extend from the head is also said to be different for different Pompom goldfish.
In addition to their given name, PomPom goldfish are also sometimes called “Pon Pon”, “Velvet Ball” and “Pom Pon” goldfish. The Pompom goldfish lacks a dorsal fin, though there is a Japanese variant of the Pompom goldfish called the “Hanafusa”, which does have a dorsal fin.
The growths on a Pompom’s face are actually extended growths of the nasal septa. The growths have been bred to the point where the skin of the nasal septa actually forms a ball-like shape. Despite what many people think, the nose growths of the Pompom goldfish do not interfere with the fish’s ability to compete for food, swim or associate with other fish.