Oranda Goldfish (Carassius auratus var. Oranda) Care Guide

A fancy goldfish variety distinguished by a prominent raspberry-like growth (wen) on the head. Egg-shaped body with flowing fins.

Overview

Carassius auratus var. Oranda is a species in the family Cyprinidae. A fancy goldfish variety distinguished by a prominent raspberry-like growth (wen) on the head. Egg-shaped body with flowing fins. Comes in many colors including red-cap white, all red, calico, and chocolate. Needs clean water to prevent wen infections.

Taxonomy

Family: Cyprinidae
Genus: Carassius
Scientific name: Carassius auratus var. Oranda
Other names: Red Cap Oranda
Origin: East Asia

Habitat

The oranda is a fancy variety of goldfish (Carassius auratus), a domesticated cyprinid originating in East Asia. Selectively bred for a rounded body and a fleshy head growth called a wen, it is a cold-tolerant omnivore descended from wild crucian-carp relatives of slow East Asian waters.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 150 L
Temperature: 18-24 °C
pH: 6.5-8
GH: 5-20 °dGH
Water flow: low
Adult size: 15-25 cm
Lifespan: 10-15 years
Difficulty: beginner

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: peaceful
Position in tank: middle
Compatible tank mates: Another Goldfish, Dojo Loach, White Cloud Minnow, Nerite Snail
Avoid with: Tropical Fish, Small Shrimp, Fin Nippers

Breeding

Breeding strategy: egg-scatterer
Breeding difficulty: intermediate