Carassius auratus
A long-bodied Oranda line kept independently in western Japan and Shikoku since the variety arrived in the Edo period. The distance from head to dorsal-fin base is long, clearly different from today's common round Oranda.
Nihon Oranda is the long-bodied ('nagate') line of the Oranda shishigashira that has been bred independently in Japan; it is also called Nagate Oranda or Shikoku Oranda. The Oranda was fixed from Ryukin that developed a head growth, and is said to have reached Nagasaki from China via Ryukyu in the Kansei era (1789-1801). It was then maintained mainly in western Japan and Shikoku and became quite different from the round-bodied Orandas imported from China in recent decades. The identification point is length: compared with round Orandas the distance from head to dorsal-fin base is long, the body is elongated and the fins are long. Long-bodied Orandas are common in each prefecture of Shikoku, where a show judges this line alone, and there is also a fanciers' club in the Chubu region. Japanese-bred fish retain much of the Wakin's hardiness, are easy to keep and are said to be less prone to buoyancy problems than Ryukin or telescope eyes. Keepers are few and supply is limited, mainly through breeding farms and goldfish specialists. The long-bodied line is judged by preservation societies, while the round line is what circulates widely; its wen is less showy than a Ranchu's but still impressive.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Nihon Oranda (Japanese Long-bodied Oranda) lives With proper care goldfish can live over 20 years in captivity (figure for goldfish in general; variety-specific data are scarce).
The ideal temperature for the Nihon Oranda (Japanese Long-bodied Oranda) is 20〜23℃.
Origin
Japan (maintained in western Japan and Shikoku); descended from Orandas brought from China in the Edo period
Lifespan
With proper care goldfish can live over 20 years in captivity (figure for goldfish in general; variety-specific data are scarce)
Size
Described as a long-bodied line that grows large; variety-specific adult size data are scarce
Temperature
20〜23℃
Omnivore (goldfish pellets as the staple; also bloodworms and daphnia)
The long head-to-dorsal distance is the key mark; compare body length from the side with round Orandas and Balloon Orandas.
A hardy line with much Wakin character; with its long body and fins, give it room to swim.
The ideal range for fancy goldfish is about 20-23°C, pH around 7.0-8.4. Avoid sudden changes in temperature or water chemistry.
Allow roughly 38 L (10 gallons) or more per adult fish, with a generously sized filter.
Keep with other long-bodied Orandas or goldfish of similar size.
Supply is limited and round Orandas are often sold simply as 'Oranda'; check the origin and line before buying.
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Nihon Oranda (Japanese Long-bodied Oranda) is 20〜23℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Nihon Oranda (Japanese Long-bodied Oranda) is With proper care goldfish can live over 20 years in captivity (figure for goldfish in general; variety-specific data are scarce). With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Nihon Oranda (Japanese Long-bodied Oranda) feeds on: Omnivore (goldfish pellets as the staple; also bloodworms and daphnia). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Nihon Oranda (Japanese Long-bodied Oranda) varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
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 (Linnaeus, 1758)
Synonyms: Cyprinus auratus Linnaeus, 1758, Carassius auratus auratus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF: Carassius auratus · FishBase: Carassius auratus
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Goldfish (Carassius auratus) are not listed in the CITES Appendices (checked on Species+, 2026-09-23) and are not designated Invasive Alien Species in Japan. Never release pet goldfish into rivers or ponds.
Sources: Species+ (CITES) / Ministry of the Environment: list of Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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