Ranchu Goldfish (Carassius auratus var. Ranchu) Care Guide

Considered the king of goldfish in Japan, the Ranchu has no dorsal fin, a deeply curved back, and a prominent wen (head growth). Slow swimmers that require smooth decorations to avoid injury.

Overview

Carassius auratus var. Ranchu is a species in the family Cyprinidae. Considered the king of goldfish in Japan, the Ranchu has no dorsal fin, a deeply curved back, and a prominent wen (head growth). Slow swimmers that require smooth decorations to avoid injury. Highly prized in competitive goldfish shows.

Taxonomy

Family: Cyprinidae
Genus: Carassius
Scientific name: Carassius auratus var. Ranchu
Other names: Buffalo Head Goldfish
Origin: East Asia

Habitat

The ranchu is a dorsal-finless fancy goldfish (Carassius auratus) bred in Japan for a curved back and head growth. It descends from domesticated East Asian goldfish stock and, lacking a dorsal fin, is a slow swimmer best kept with similar fancy types.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 150 L
Temperature: 18-22 °C
pH: 6.5-8
GH: 5-20 °dGH
Water flow: low
Adult size: 12-20 cm
Lifespan: 10-15 years
Difficulty: intermediate

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, Nerite Snail
Avoid with: Tropical Fish, Fast Swimmers, Fin Nippers

Breeding

Breeding strategy: egg-scatterer
Breeding difficulty: advanced