Origins and Classification
- Scientific Name: Carassius auratus (Red & White Oranda variety)
- Family: Cyprinidae
- Origin: Developed in China and Japan through selective breeding. The Oranda is prized worldwide for its wen (head growth) and graceful fins.
- Popularity: Red and White Orandas are especially admired for their contrasting colors, gentle temperament, and elegant movement — a favorite in both aquariums and ornamental ponds.
🎨 Appearance
- Color:
- Body displays a beautiful blend of bright red and pure white.
- Patterns vary: red cap with white body, red patches, or symmetrical red-white splits.
- Structure:
- Signature wen (head growth) forming a cap-like structure.
- Rounded, egg-shaped body.
- Flowing double tail and long, graceful fins.
- Size:
- Medium–Large Orandas typically reach 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) in body length.
- In spacious setups, they may grow larger.
- Lifespan: 10–15 years, longer with excellent water quality.
🏡 Tank Requirements
- Tank Size: Minimum 40 gallons for one; add 20 gallons per additional fish.
- Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 65–75°F (18–24°C)
- pH: 6.8–7.8
- Hardness: 5–15 dGH
- Lighting: Soft to moderate — enhances color without stressing the fish.
- Substrate: Smooth sand or rounded gravel.
- Habitat Setup:
- Provide open swimming space.
- Add smooth decor and hardy live plants (Anubias, Java Fern, Hornwort).
- Use a gentle filter — avoid strong currents that stress fancy goldfish.
🍽️ Diet
- Type: Omnivorous.
- Foods:
- High-quality goldfish pellets (preferred sinking).
- Frozen/live foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia.
- Veggies: peas (deshelled), spinach, kale.
- Feeding Tips:
- Feed 2–3 small meals daily.
- Avoid floating foods to reduce digestive issues.
🤝 Behavior and Compatibility
- Temperament: Peaceful, social, gentle.
- Tank Mates:
- Best with other fancy goldfish varieties (Telescope, Ryukin, Lionhead, Oranda).
- Avoid slim-bodied goldfish like Comets or Shubunkins — too fast and competitive.
- Grouping:
- Can live alone or in small groups of similar fancies.
- Behavior: Slow, graceful swimmer with charming personality.
💡 Care Notes
- Needs clean, stable water with weekly 30–40% changes.
- Wen should be monitored — in rare cases, overgrowth may affect vision.
- Avoid sharp décor to protect fins and wen.
- The Red & White Oranda is a timeless classic, offering beauty, elegance, and vibrant color to any aquarium.
