Ranchu Goldfish, Red & White

Ranchu Goldfish, Red & White
(Carassius auratus

QUICK STATS
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 65-75° F, KH 4-20, pH 6.5-7.5
Max. Size: 8"
Color Form: Red, White
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Canton
Family: Cyprinidae

The Red & White Ranchu Goldfish is an exceptional example of fancy ornamental goldfish. Selectively bred and highly prized in Japan, the Red & White Ranchu Goldfish is gaining international popularity among goldfish enthusiasts. The appearance of the Red & White Ranchu Goldfish is remarkable. Most notable is the absence of the dorsal fin. This distinguishing feature is accentuated by a full, egg-shaped body. A prominent arch in the back terminates downward at a sharp angle for a curved, "tucked-in" body shape unique to the Red & White Ranchu Goldfish. As a branch developed from Lionhead Goldfish, the Red & White Ranchu Goldfish has a full hood that envelops the entire head with a raspberry-like growth. While this wide-eyed beauty may challenge the conventional notion of beauty, its stately presence and graceful nature make the Red & White Ranchu Goldfish an exquisite choice.
As a member of the carp family, the Red & White Ranchu Goldfish is generally quite hardy. It will do well in 30 gallon aquariums or larger, as well as backyard garden ponds of 180 gallons or more. In addition to a fine gravel bottom or well-rounded river rocks, the Red & White Ranchu Goldfish will appreciate hardy, cold water plants. Keep in mind that goldfish are diggers and will scatter the fine sand onto leaves, injuring thin and less hardy plants.

There appears to be a definite courtship ritual when goldfish breed. Breeding often results in up to 1,000 eggs, with fry hatching in five to six days. They should be fed small pieces of live or prepared foods designed for egg-laying fish.

Goldfish are omnivores and will eat all types of dried and live foods. However, limit protein intake to 30% of the diet. Goldfish flake or pellet food will provide these fish with the proper nutrition.

from www.liveaquaria.com