Goldfish originated in China in the Sung Era, approximately 1000 A.D.  The goldfish originated as a natural mutation of the Crucian Carp (Carassius Carassius), which was originally a drab olive color.  The orange-red color is the result of a natural mutation, which was selectively bred-for over the years.

Goldfish breeding has taken place in China for over 1,000 years.  Goldfish were exported to Japan and Korea sometime around 1500 A.D., and to Europe in the 1600s.  Goldfish were exported to the Unites States in 1876, and were shown in the World's Fair in Chicago in 1893.

Dr Matsui, in the Goldfish Guide, posits that the Crucian Carp mutated into the common goldfish, Carassius Auratus (Hibuna in Japanese), and through a process of natural mutation, the Hibuna mutated into several goldfish prototypes, including the Wakin (double tailed goldfish), Ryukin, Demekin, Maruko (prototype of the Lionhead), and Oranda.  Later cross-breeding developed further varieties, including the Ranchu, Celestial, Bubbleye, Comet, Shubunkin and Pearlscale. 

It appears that early mutations were along body types, and special features, and that later selective breeding fixed both the body type and general coloration (red, orange, white, calico, etc.) in goldfish.

Goldfish have always been associated with art and poetry.  On the following pages are poems dealing with ponds, nature, and other eastern themes.