Lionhead Ranchu – 11cm

Ranchu (Carassius auratus) is a Fancy Goldfish type that was created in Japan, they are one of the oldest fancy goldfish to date. Nicknamed “King of Goldfish” by the Japanese as they are highly prized with some selling for hundreds of dollars. They were developed from the Lionhead variety and are distinct as they lack any dorsal fin. The scales are metallic and come in a wide variety of colours from white to black. Both the Lionhead and the Ranchu will sport a “hood”. A “hood” is a head growth that is very brain-like in appearance. “Hoods” are also sometimes referred to as a Wen.  While both fish have this head growth, the Lionhead’s hood is much more prominent on top of his head. The Ranchu’s hood is slightly less prominent and sometimes covers more than the top of their head.  The Ranchu has a broad back and tail fins that fan out almost horizontally, whereas the Lionhead’s back is slightly flattened and tail fins fan out more vertically.

Behaviour

Red and White Ranchu are not well suited to pond life as fluctuating temperatures can put them into shock, their limited movement also makes them easy prey to any potential predators.

Tank Conditions

Ranchu Goldfish can get quite large growing to around 1220 cm long. They will need an aquarium of at least 50-75 litres, kept at around 18 to 22° C. A good rule is to have at least 40 litres per Goldfish. They will need a filtration system, a light and an air pump can also be added for extra water aeration. Ensure that both the air pump and filter are not too powerful as these fish are poor swimmers and will struggle with a strong current. Hang-on filters have the added benefit of creating a nice natural waterfall/trickle into the tank so these are ideal at not creating too much water flow.

Compatibility

Ranchu should be kept with other slow-moving Fancy goldfish, nothing too fast that could out-compete them for food. Some good companions include the Lionhead, Bubble and Telescope eye.

Feeding

They will happily accept flake foods and fancy goldfish food, however, frozen foods should be offered – blood worm is very popular with goldfish.

Care

Ranchu are some of the more delicate goldfish. Unlike the flat-bodied types of goldfish (non-fancy), they have a lower tolerance for tank pollution. They will need good care and plenty of space. When it comes to feeding, they will not thrive with fast, competitive tankmates.

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