
AI-generated image
Carassius auratus var.
Ranchu with yellow-orange body and black tiger stripe pattern. Tiger pattern changes with growth and may disappear. Unique markings popular with collectors.
The Tiger Ranchu is a Ranchu with black stripes and blotches arranged like a tiger's markings over a yellow-to-orange body, a distinctive pattern that makes it popular with collectors. It keeps the classic Ranchu enjoyment—no dorsal fin, with the head wen and rounded body viewed from above—while adding a striking tiger-like coloration. Black coloration in goldfish fades easily, and the tiger pattern often changes or loses its black as the fish grows or its environment shifts, so the same markings are hard to keep long term; in a sense it is a variety to be enjoyed for its shifting pattern. Because it demands the usual Ranchu attention to body shape and wen, some experience is needed to raise it. House it in a container of 60 liters or more with clean water, appropriate feeding, and regular water changes; a stable environment helps preserve the tiger pattern.
Origin
Japan
Lifespan
10-15 years
Size
12-18cm
Temperature
15〜28℃
Goldfish pellets, bloodworms, daphnia
Black fades easily. Lower temperatures help retain pattern
Clean water. Weekly water changes
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. (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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Bare tank for top-view appreciation recommended
Tiger-patterned fish are limited by selection. Somewhat hard to obtain
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Tiger Ranchu is 15〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Tiger Ranchu is 10-15 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Tiger Ranchu typically reaches 12-18cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Tiger Ranchu feeds on: Goldfish pellets, bloodworms, daphnia. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Tiger Ranchu varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: July 8, 2026