Calico Ranchu

Introduction: Introducing the Calico Ranchu, a captivating and elegant variety of the fancy goldfish known for its beautiful, multi-colored calico pattern and its unique “hood” or wen on its head. Ranchus, often referred to as the “King of Goldfish,” are beloved for their rounded, egg-shaped bodies, lack of a dorsal fin, and graceful swimming. The Calico Ranchu’s combination of vivid oranges, whites, blues, and blacks makes it a favorite among goldfish enthusiasts who admire its ornamental beauty.

Scientific Name: The Calico Ranchu is a domesticated variant of Carassius auratus and is commonly referred to simply as the Calico Ranchu.

Water Quality and Temperature: To ensure the health and vibrancy of your Calico Ranchu, maintain the following water parameters:

• Temperature: Keep the water temperature between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C).
• pH Level: Maintain a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5.
• Hardness: Aim for a water hardness level between 5 to 19 dGH, suitable for goldfish.

Feeding: The Calico Ranchu is an omnivorous species that thrives on a well-balanced diet. Provide the following:

• Pellets or Flakes: High-quality goldfish pellets or flakes form the main part of their diet.
• Vegetables: Offer blanched vegetables like peas, spinach, or zucchini to aid digestion and prevent swim bladder issues.
• Live or Frozen Foods: Supplement their diet with protein-rich treats such as bloodworms or brine shrimp for added variety and nutrition.

Tank Mates: The Calico Ranchu is a peaceful fish and coexists well with other fancy goldfish varieties, such as Orandas, Ryukins, and Lionheads. Due to their slower swimming speed and delicate bodies, avoid housing them with fast or aggressive species, such as common goldfish or fin-nippers, which could outcompete them for food or cause stress.

Substrates and Tank Decorations: A soft substrate, such as fine sand or smooth gravel, is ideal to protect the delicate fins and body of the Calico Ranchu. When decorating the tank, use smooth rocks, driftwood, and plants without sharp edges to prevent injury. The absence of a dorsal fin makes them less agile, so ensuring a safe environment is crucial. Floating plants or broad-leaved varieties like Anubias or Java Ferns can add shade and shelter, enhancing the aesthetic appeal without posing a risk to their flowing fins.

Suitable Plants: Hardy plants such as Anubias, Java Fern, and Hornwort are great choices for a tank with Calico Ranchus. These plants can be anchored to rocks or driftwood, offering shelter and reducing nitrates in the tank without being easily uprooted.

Sexing: Sexing Calico Ranchus is difficult outside the breeding season. During spawning, males develop small white breeding tubercles on their gill covers and pectoral fins, while females may become rounder, particularly when carrying eggs.

Breeding: Breeding Calico Ranchus can be a rewarding process when the right conditions are met. Set up a separate breeding tank with a slightly elevated temperature of around 75°F (24°C). During spawning, males will chase the females, prompting them to lay eggs. After fertilization, the adults should be removed from the breeding tank to prevent them from eating the eggs. The eggs typically hatch within 4 to 7 days, and the fry can be fed specialized goldfish fry food or finely crushed flakes.

Maximum Size and Longevity: The Calico Ranchu can grow up to 5 to 8 inches (13 to 20 cm) in length. With proper care and an optimal environment, they can live between 10 to 15 years, and some even longer, making them a long-term and fulfilling addition to your aquarium.

General Information: The Calico Ranchu is a prized goldfish variety, beloved for its rounded body, vibrant calico colors, and distinctive head growth. Their gentle demeanor and striking appearance make them a popular choice for goldfish collectors and enthusiasts. Though they are generally hardy, their slower swimming speed and sensitive body structure mean they require a peaceful environment and careful tank setup. They are an excellent choice for aquarists seeking an elegant, slow-moving goldfish with a stunning visual impact.

A Fun Fact: The Ranchu is often called the “King of Goldfish” in Japan, where this variety was originally developed. Its unique, graceful appearance and lack of a dorsal fin have made it a symbol of beauty and refinement in the goldfish hobby!