Goldfish Ranchu (Calico)

Calico Ranchu Care Guide

Aquarium Setup:

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for one Ranchu; add 10 gallons for each additional fish.
• Filtration: Use a high-quality filter to maintain clean water, as Ranchus produce a lot of waste.
• Substrate: Smooth gravel or sand to prevent injury to their delicate fins.
• Plants and Decorations: Use live or artificial plants and smooth decorations to provide hiding spots and enrichment, avoiding sharp objects.

Water Conditions:

• Temperature: 65-75°F (18-24°C).
• pH Level: 6.5-7.5.
• Ammonia/Nitrite/Nitrate: Keep ammonia and nitrite at 0 ppm; nitrates below 20 ppm.
• Water Changes: Perform 25-50% water changes weekly to maintain optimal water quality.

Diet:

• Staple Food: High-quality sinking pellets formulated for goldfish.
• Supplemental Foods: Live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.
• Vegetables: Blanched peas, lettuce, spinach, and zucchini.
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily in small amounts that can be consumed within a few minutes.

Health and Maintenance:

• Observation: Regularly check for signs of illness such as white spots, frayed fins, or lethargy.
• Quarantine New Additions: Quarantine new fish for at least two weeks before introducing them to the main tank.
• Wen Care: Monitor the wen (head growth) for overgrowth or infection; seek veterinary advice if needed.

Behavior and Compatibility:

• Temperament: Peaceful and social; best kept with other non-aggressive goldfish varieties.
• Tankmates: Avoid fin-nipping species and ensure tankmates are of similar size and temperament.

Additional Tips:

• Avoid Overfeeding: Overfeeding can lead to poor water quality and health issues.
• Regular Cleaning: Keep the tank clean and free of uneaten food and debris to prevent ammonia spikes.
• Monitor Water Parameters: Use a reliable water testing kit to regularly check water parameters and ensure a healthy environment.

By following this care guide, your Calico Ranchu will thrive and remain a beautiful, healthy addition to your aquarium.