The Calico Ranchu is a stunning fancy goldfish variety, celebrated for its round body, unique head growth (wen), and vibrant calico pattern of orange, white, black, and blue speckles. Known as the "King of Goldfish," the Ranchu is a graceful and peaceful addition to freshwater aquariums or ponds. Its captivating appearance and manageable care requirements make it a favorite among goldfish enthusiasts.
Product Details
Species:Carassius auratus
Common Names: Calico Ranchu, Fancy Ranchu Goldfish
Origin: Domesticated (originally bred in Japan and China)
Diet: Omnivore
Maximum Size: 15–20 cm (6–8 inches)
Temperament: Peaceful
Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Care Guidelines
Aquarium Setup: Calico Ranchus thrive in spacious aquariums of at least 100 liters for a single fish, with an additional 40 liters per additional goldfish. Use a soft substrate, such as sand or fine gravel, to protect their delicate features. Provide live plants and smooth decorations for enrichment, ensuring no sharp edges that could damage their fins or wen. Adequate filtration is essential to maintain water quality, as goldfish are high waste producers.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 18°C – 24°C
pH Range: 7.0 – 8.0
Water Hardness: Moderately hard (8–12 dGH)
Diet: Calico Ranchus are omnivorous and thrive on a balanced diet. Provide high-quality goldfish pellets or flakes as a staple, supplemented with fresh vegetables such as blanched spinach, zucchini, or peas. Treat them occasionally with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, or daphnia for added nutrition. Feed small portions 2–3 times daily to avoid overfeeding.
Behavior and Compatibility: Ranchus are peaceful and slow swimmers, making them ideal for tanks with other fancy goldfish varieties. Avoid housing them with faster or more aggressive species, such as common goldfish, which may outcompete them for food. Their gentle nature makes them perfect for dedicated goldfish setups or ponds.
Growth and Maintenance:
Calico Ranchus grow up to 20 cm and can live for 10–15 years with proper care. Regular water changes and consistent monitoring of water quality are essential to prevent common goldfish health issues, such as wen infections or swim bladder problems. Their unique calico pattern makes them a standout addition to any aquarium or pond.
Availability: Calico Ranchu Goldfish (Carassius auratus) are available at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Visit or contact the store to check availability and bring home this beautiful and elegant goldfish today!
Due to variations within species and age of fish, your item may not look identical to the image provided.