Ranchu Goldfish
The Ranchu goldfish was first developed in Japan. It is a type of fancy goldfish, also posessing a “hood” simliar to some other breeds of goldfish. The Ranchu goldfish was created from selectively breeding certain Lionhead goldfish in order to enhance certain characteristics. Often times, the Ranchu goldfish is called by the nickname “King of Goldfish”, though usually only by the Japanese. They are highly regarded in Japanese culture, being extremely popular not only as pets, but as show quality fish as well.
The body of a Ranchu goldfish is egg-shaped, with the tail being notably more downturned than that of their Lionhead goldfish relatives. The back of the Ranchu is more arched as well, extending back then sloping downward to meet the base of the tail. The tail of the Ranchu is also shorter than that of the Lionhead, which is one of the characteristics that was selectively bred into the Ranchu goldfish.
The belly of the Ranchu goldfish can be up to 3/4 of the total length of the fish. The deepness of the belly is another highly sought characteristic of Ranchu goldfish. Like the Lionhead goldfish, the Ranchu goldfish does not have a dorsal fin.
Ranchu fish are also known for their unique head growths. Some people state that these growths are less prominent than some other types of goldfish. From the day of their hatching, the head growth on a Ranchu goldfish may take at least a year to develop, though may sometimes take slightly longer.