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A ryukin with red-white-black tricolor (calico) pattern. Popular for gorgeous coloring and round body.
The Calico Ryukin combines the Ryukin's characteristic high shoulder hump and deep, rounded body with the vibrant nacreous calico coloration—a mosaic of red, white, black, and blue-green tones across semi-transparent scales. The combination of the Ryukin's bold profile and the richness of calico coloration makes this variety one of the most visually dramatic goldfish available for side-view appreciation. Each individual has a unique, unrepeatable color pattern, which makes the breed popular with collectors. Calico Ryukin have healthy appetites and should not be housed with timid slow-moving varieties. Color can be enhanced with appropriate lighting and color-enhancing foods. The translucent scales are sensitive to physical damage, so avoid sharp aquarium decorations.
The Calico Ryukin lives 10-15 years.
The Calico Ryukin grows to 12-20cm.
The ideal water temperature for the Calico Ryukin is 18〜23℃.
Care follows standard Ryukin practice: tanks of 45 liters or more, stable water temperature of 18–25°C, and regular water changes.
Origin
Japan
Lifespan
10-15 years
Size
12-20cm
Sources: FishBase / Aqueon Goldfish Care Guide
Goldfish varieties are line-bred for body shape, tail type, scale type, and coloration. Traits such as protruding eyes, transparent scales (calico), and albinism are single-locus traits.
Sources: Wikipedia - Goldfish (Varieties) / Goldfish — Wikipedia (Japanese edition, varieties)
A curated selection of notable morphs. Inheritance modes are a breeding-planning guide; actual appearance varies with combos.
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: (Linnaeus, 1758)
Synonyms: Cyprinus auratus Linnaeus, 1758, Carassius auratus auratus (Linnaeus, 1758), Cyprinus thoracatus Valenciennes, 1842, Carassius burgeri Temminck & Schlegel, 1846, Cyprinus chinensis Gronow, 1854
Authority databases: FishBase · GBIF · FishBase: Carassius auratus · GBIF: Carassius auratus
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
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Temperature
5〜30℃
Pellets, Bloodworms
Keep in a tank of 45L or more. Transparent scales are easily damaged, so avoid sharp decorations. Aquatic plants set off the coloring nicely.
Needs a stable 18-25°C. Maintain water quality with a filter and change water once or twice a week.
There is a risk of swim bladder disorder, so feed easily digestible food in moderation. Color-enhancing food helps maintain the coloring.
Like the ryukin it is fairly active with a big appetite. When kept with slow varieties, watch for competition over food.
Moderate lighting helps keep the coloring beautiful. Patterns vary greatly between individuals and shift in appearance with the angle of light.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Calico Ryukin is 18〜23℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Calico Ryukin is 10-15 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Calico Ryukin typically reaches 12-20cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Calico Ryukin feeds on: Pellets, Bloodworms. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Calico Ryukin varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026