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Carassius auratus var. ranchu
A ranchu with vivid red patterns on a white base. The red-white color scheme is striking when viewed from above, making it popular in shows. Combines ranchu body beauty with red-white coloration.
The Red-and-White Ranchu (Kohaku Ranchu) is a Ranchu in which red markings stand out against a white ground, with its great appeal being the beauty of the red-and-white coloring seen from above. To the Ranchu's classic form—no dorsal fin, with a head wen and a rounded, powerful body—it adds a Koi-like red-and-white contrast, making it highly popular at shows. The vividness of the red, the purity of the white ground, and the placement and balance of the pattern are the keys to appreciation and judging. Beyond the usual Ranchu attention to body shape and wen, good coloration is also required, so it is regarded as a variety for advanced keepers. House it in a container of 60 liters or more with clean water, appropriate feeding, and regular water changes; color-enhancing foods make the red still more vivid.
Origin
Japan
Lifespan
8-15 years
Size
10-18cm
Temperature
15〜28℃
Omnivore (pellets, bloodworms, daphnia)
Traditional top viewing in shallow round bowls
Stabilize at 15-28°C
Sources: FishBase / Aqueon Goldfish Care Guide
金魚品種は体型・尾型・鱗・色の選抜固定(line-bred)。出目・透明鱗(キャリコ)・白子等は単一座。
Sources: Wikipedia - Goldfish (Varieties) / 金魚 - Wikipedia (日本語版・品種)
A curated selection of notable morphs. Inheritance modes are a breeding-planning guide; actual appearance varies with combos.
Edited & verified by: br-choku 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. ranchu (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 · 日本らんちう協会
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
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Color feed maintains vibrant red coloring
Color placement balance is highly valued in shows
Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.
The ideal temperature for Red-white Ranchu is 15〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Red-white Ranchu is 8-15 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Red-white Ranchu typically reaches 10-18cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Red-white Ranchu feeds on: Omnivore (pellets, bloodworms, daphnia). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Red-white Ranchu varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: July 8, 2026