Want to add a nice splash of colour to your home? Fill up your aquarium or fish tank with some beautiful Ryukin goldfish. These fancy fellas look great, and they’re pretty beginner-friendly, so they’re ideal for first-time goldfish owners and goldfish aficionados as well.
Here’s what they are and how to care for these beautiful fish:
What are Ryukin Goldfish?
The humble little Ryukin goldfish is native to Japan and was first domesticated in China many centuries ago. When it was introduced to Japan, it is said to have made its way through the Ryukyu Islands in the south of Japan (Okinawa today).
Ryukin goldfish are usually sold at lengths between 5cm and 12-13cm, depending on the variety. They can achieve a full adult length of around 21cm or, in some cases, over 25cm.
Their colours range from dark red to white, silver, black, blue, lavender, orange, grey, and calico varieties. They’re fairly unique amongst goldfish and can be identified by their somewhat triangular body shape (fat lower belly), pointed heads, and triple or quadruple tails.
Ideal Aquarium/Tank Conditions for Ryukin Goldfish
What does it take to raise a Ryukin goldfish or a whole school? For one Ryukin, you should have a fish tank or aquarium with at least 75L of water (ideally more). For more, add about 50L for each extra one.
The water should be kept reasonably warm, around 18–22°C and you should try to keep the pH level of the water between 6-8. You’ll also want a very strong filtration system, and the water should be well oxygenated, because Ryukin are well-known for producing a lot of waste. Keep the water circulating and change about a quarter of the water every week to keep contaminant levels low and the water fresh.
Proper Diet for Ryukin Goldfish
What do Ryukin goldfish like to eat? Quite simply, they’re most happy when they’re fed a balanced diet of high-quality pellets, proteins, and flakes. Try to mix it up and give them pellets for one meal, then give them flakes or veggies for another. Once in a while, give them some protein as a snack.
In terms of veggies, boil some small vegetables like peas and drop them directly into the water. For protein, they’ll enjoy little brined shrimp. Your Ryukin should be quite healthy with a balanced diet, and they’re fairly hardy so they won’t fuss too much if you’re a little late for feeding time. Just try to remember to do it at regular intervals and don’t over- or underfeed them.
How to Keep Your Ryukin Goldfish Happy and Healthy
Ryukin are quite jovial and friendly, calm and gentle. If you’re planning on keeping them that way, the job is quite easy, and that’s one big reason why they’re a beginner-friendly goldfish.
For the best results, try to keep them in groups with a friend or two. They get along well with other goldfish varieties, especially slower ones like Ranchu goldfish. Just make sure that their tankmates aren’t too aggressive or too fast because they can rush to eat all of the food before the Ryukin gets a start.
In terms of the tank, try to keep it smooth. Use decor that lacks sharp or pointy ends, use smooth rocks, and decorate with a few plants if you like. They may even forage on live plants and be encouraged to swim about and explore their surroundings.
A little bit of exposure to natural light is good and can help them keep their vibrant colour, but avoid keeping them under direct sunlight.
Zen Aquarium
Purchase Ryukin goldfish and much more at Zen Aquarium.