Oranda Goldfish

About

The oranda goldfish (Carassius auratus var. oranda) is one of the most recognizable fancy goldfish varieties, instantly identified by the fleshy, raspberry-like growth on its head known as the wen. This cap develops gradually as the fish matures, and in well-kept individuals it can eventually cover most of the face, sometimes even requiring a trim to keep the eyes clear. Like all fancy goldfish, orandas are a product of centuries of selective breeding in East Asia and exist only in aquaria. There is no wild population to speak of. They come in a wide range of color forms, from the classic red-and-white to solid black, chocolate, and the popular red-capped variety with its bright orange wen against a white body. Despite their ornate appearance, orandas are peaceful fish that do well with other fancy goldfish varieties of similar body shape and swimming speed. Their double tail and rounded body make them slower and less agile than single-tailed goldfish, so housing them with faster tankmates can lead to competition at feeding time. Care sits at an intermediate level. Not because they are delicate, but because they produce substantial waste and demand consistent water quality and regular maintenance. Treated well, they are genuinely long-lived companions.