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Carassius auratus
A dorsal-less variety imported from China after the war, marked above all by the crimson head growth. The contrast with the white body also earns it the name tancho ranchu.
The gatoko is a dorsal-less goldfish imported from China after the war, marked above all by crimson head growth. In China it is called the goose-head fish because the view from above suggests a goose's head, and in Japan an alternative writing of the name is also used. The white body with a red head matches the tancho among dorsal-finned oranda types, and that resemblance has led the fish to be sold in recent years as the tancho ranchu, borrowing the name of the red-crowned crane. It circulates in smaller numbers than the tancho, however. As a dorsal-less ranchu type it does not swim strongly, and it is enjoyed from above for the fullness of the head growth and the depth of the red. The head growth is sensitive to water quality.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Gatoko (Goosehead Red) lives 10-15 years.
The ideal temperature for the Gatoko (Goosehead Red) is 15〜28℃.
Origin
China (imported to Japan after the war)
Lifespan
10-15 years
Temperature
15〜28℃
Sources: FishBase (Carassius auratus) / Keihan Nishikigoi Center: goldfish water management / Kingyo Hitosuji: Ranchu
Goldfish varieties arose from fixed mutations and selective breeding, and body form, tail form, scale type, colour and head growth are all carried forward by selection over generations. Inheritance is therefore shown as line-bred throughout rather than split into dominant and recessive.
Sources: Kingyo Hitosuji: Ranchu
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.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / FishBase (Carassius auratus)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Prepared foods, frozen bloodworms
Dorsal-less ranchu types are viewed from above and need no strong lighting. Moving the fish to a white bowl and looking down shows its form and pattern best.
With no dorsal fin it swims poorly, so keep the flow gentle. Shallow containers and water bowls suit viewing from above; in a tank a thin layer of substrate is enough.
It does not swim strongly, so the usual arrangement is with other ranchu types. Mixed with wakin types or comets it will lose out at feeding time.
The crimson head growth suffers when water quality declines and rarely recovers once spoiled. Change water regularly, and use colour-enhancing food to hold the red.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Gatoko (Goosehead Red) is 15〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Gatoko (Goosehead Red) is 10-15 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Gatoko (Goosehead Red) feeds on: Prepared foods, frozen bloodworms. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Gatoko (Goosehead Red) varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 17, 2026