
AI-generated image
Carassius auratus var.
Ancient Chinese egg-shaped goldfish. No dorsal fin with round body similar to Ranchu, but without wen development. Prototype of Chinese goldfish varieties.
The Egg Fish goldfish is an egg-shaped Chinese variety kept since ancient times and regarded as a prototype for dorsal-less Chinese goldfish such as the Ranchu. It has no dorsal fin and a smooth, rounded, egg-shaped body resembling the Ranchu, but its head wen barely develops, if at all—an unadorned, simple form whose appeal lies in the clean lines of its body and back. Without a wen to maintain, it is easier to keep than the Ranchu and is hardy enough for beginners through intermediate keepers. House it in a tank of 60 liters or more with clean water; being omnivorous, feed mainly prepared foods supplemented with bloodworms or daphnia for balance. It swims gently and pairs well with similarly calm varieties.
The Egg Fish Goldfish lives 10-15 years.
The Egg Fish Goldfish grows to 12-18cm.
Origin
China
Lifespan
10-15 years
Size
12-18cm
Temperature
15〜28℃
Goldfish pellets, bloodworms, daphnia
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: Carassius auratus var. (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 · Nihon Ranchu Association (JA)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Find listings for this species
45cm+ tank. Gentle flow
Manage feeding to maintain egg-shaped body
Can mix with other round-bodied goldfish
Sinking food recommended to prevent swim bladder issues
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Egg Fish Goldfish is 15〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Egg Fish Goldfish is 10-15 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Egg Fish Goldfish typically reaches 12-18cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Egg Fish Goldfish feeds on: Goldfish pellets, bloodworms, daphnia. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Egg Fish Goldfish varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026