The White/Pink Ranchu is a delicate and elegant variety of the fancy Ranchu goldfish, admired for its soft, pastel coloration and characteristic rounded body shape. Often called the "king of goldfish," the Ranchu’s beauty and graceful swimming style make it a prized choice for aquarists.
Key Features
- Current Size: Approximately 5–7 cm
- Adult Size: Grows up to 12–15 cm
- Tank Size: Minimum 80 liters per fish; larger tanks recommended for groups
- Temperature Range: 18–24°C
- pH Range: 6.5–8.0 (prefers neutral water)
- Diet: Omnivore; thrives on a varied diet
- Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care
Appearance
- Coloration: Soft white with a subtle pink hue, giving it a pearlescent glow under aquarium lighting.
- Body Shape: Rounded, egg-like body with no dorsal fin, emphasizing its smooth and seamless profile.
- Fins: Short and elegant, complementing its graceful movements.
- Head Growth (Wen): A distinctive "wen" or head cap, which becomes more pronounced with age.
Behavior
- Calm, peaceful, and slow-moving.
- Sociable with other fancy goldfish of similar temperament.
Tank Setup
- Substrate: Soft sand or smooth gravel to prevent injuries.
- Decorations: Include soft plants and rounded ornaments; avoid sharp objects that can damage their delicate body or fins.
- Filtration: Use a high-quality filter with a gentle flow; Ranchus are not strong swimmers.
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Water Conditions:
- Perform regular water changes to maintain excellent water quality.
- Monitor ammonia, nitrate, and nitrite levels to ensure a healthy environment.
Feeding
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Diet: Provide a balanced diet to maintain vibrant color and health:
- High-quality goldfish pellets or flakes as a staple.
- Live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia for protein.
- Blanched vegetables like peas or zucchini to support digestion and prevent swim bladder issues.
Tankmates
- Compatible with other slow-moving fancy goldfish like Orandas, Pearlscales, and Lionheads.
- Avoid fast or aggressive species, which may outcompete Ranchus for food or harm their fins.
Breeding
- Breeding Ranchus requires a dedicated breeding tank with a temperature increase to stimulate spawning.
- Males chase females during breeding, and eggs are scattered on plants or breeding mops.
- Remove the parents after spawning to protect the eggs.
- Feed fry with infusoria or finely crushed food until they are large enough for regular fry foods.
Special Considerations
- Ranchus are prone to swim bladder problems due to their unique body shape; provide a fiber-rich diet and avoid overfeeding.
- Keep their wen clean and monitor for signs of infections or fungal growth.
- Regular water maintenance is critical for their well-being.
Why Choose White/Pink Ranchu?
The White/Pink Ranchu is a symbol of refinement and grace in the aquarium world. Its soft, glowing colors and serene demeanor make it an enchanting centerpiece for tanks or ponds. With proper care, these stunning goldfish can thrive and become a delightful long-term companion.