Oranda Goldfish
Oranda Goldfish

Red & White Fantail Fancy Goldfish For Coldwater Aquariums

£5.99

The Fantail Goldfish, is one of the most popular and recognizable varieties of fancy goldfish, serving as the foundation for many other breeds like the Ryukin and Oranda.

Originating from selective breeding in China and Japan, these fish are distinguished by their egg-shaped body and a beautiful double caudal fin that splits into two matching lobes, creating a fan-like appearance when viewed from above.

Unlike some other fancy varieties, Fantails possess a high, erect dorsal fin, giving them a balanced and classic look. They come in a dazzling array of colours including vibrant metallic orange, red, yellow, white, black, and calico.

Growing to approximately 15-20 centimetres in length, they are hardy and relatively easy to care for compared to more delicate fancy types.

While Fantails are stronger swimmers than varieties like the Bubble Eye or Celestial, they are still slower and more cumbersome than single-tailed goldfish like Comets or Shubunkins. Therefore, they should not be housed with these faster breeds, as they will be outcompeted for food. Instead, they thrive in the company of other fancy goldfish such as Black Moors, Orandas, or Ryukins.

These peaceful, social scavengers require a varied diet, but sinking pellets are highly recommended over floating flakes to prevent them from gulping air, which can lead to swim bladder issues common in deep-bodied fish.

They produce significant waste, so a spacious aquarium of atleast 60 litres per fish with efficient filtration is essential, though water flow should be moderate to avoid exhausting them.

With proper care, including regular water changes and a balanced diet, Fantail Goldfish can live for 10-15 years or more, making them wonderful, colourful pets for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

The Fantail Goldfish, is one of the most popular and recognizable varieties of fancy goldfish, serving as the foundation for many other breeds like the Ryukin and Oranda.

Originating from selective breeding in China and Japan, these fish are distinguished by their egg-shaped body and a beautiful double caudal fin that splits into two matching lobes, creating a fan-like appearance when viewed from above.

Unlike some other fancy varieties, Fantails possess a high, erect dorsal fin, giving them a balanced and classic look. They come in a dazzling array of colours including vibrant metallic orange, red, yellow, white, black, and calico.

Growing to approximately 15-20 centimetres in length, they are hardy and relatively easy to care for compared to more delicate fancy types.

While Fantails are stronger swimmers than varieties like the Bubble Eye or Celestial, they are still slower and more cumbersome than single-tailed goldfish like Comets or Shubunkins. Therefore, they should not be housed with these faster breeds, as they will be outcompeted for food. Instead, they thrive in the company of other fancy goldfish such as Black Moors, Orandas, or Ryukins.

These peaceful, social scavengers require a varied diet, but sinking pellets are highly recommended over floating flakes to prevent them from gulping air, which can lead to swim bladder issues common in deep-bodied fish.

They produce significant waste, so a spacious aquarium of atleast 60 litres per fish with efficient filtration is essential, though water flow should be moderate to avoid exhausting them.

With proper care, including regular water changes and a balanced diet, Fantail Goldfish can live for 10-15 years or more, making them wonderful, colourful pets for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

Oranda Fantail Goldfish

Adult Size: Oranda Fantail Goldfish can grow to about 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 cm) in length, though some may reach up to 12 inches (30 cm) in optimal conditions.

Temperature Range: 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). They can tolerate a wider range but prefer cooler temperatures.

pH Range: 6.5 to 8.0

Compatibility: Generally peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful goldfish varieties. They do best with other slow-moving, long-finned goldfish like Lionheads, Ranchus, and Bubble Eyes.

Minimum Tank Size: 60 liters for a single fish, but a larger tank is highly recommended

Originates from: China, where they were selectively bred from common goldfish.

Ideal Substrate: Fine gravel or sand, as they often forage at the bottom of the tank.

Ideal Tank Mates Suggestions:

  • Other Fancy Goldfish: Species like Lionheads, Ranchus, Bubble Eyes, and Black Moors.

  • Peaceful Community Fish: Species that can handle cooler water temperatures and are not aggressive, such as White Cloud Mountain Minnows and some Danios.

  • Snails and Shrimp: Species like Mystery Snails and Amano Shrimp, which can help keep the tank clean.

Fish to Avoid:

  • Aggressive Fish: Species like Cichlids, Barbs, and other aggressive or fin-nipping fish can stress or harm the slow-moving Oranda Fantail.

  • Fast-Swimming Fish: Species like Goldfish Shubunkins or Comets, which can outcompete Oranda Fantails for food.

  • Large Fish: Species that are much larger than the Oranda Fantail can see them as prey or outcompete them for resources.

Additional Information:

Habitat and Tank Setup:

  • Water Flow: Oranda Fantails prefer a gentle water flow. Avoid strong currents that can make it difficult for them to swim.

  • Decorations: Provide plenty of hiding spots with smooth rocks, driftwood, and non-toxic plants. Ensure that decorations do not have sharp edges that can damage their delicate fins.

  • Filtration: Use a high-quality filter to maintain water quality, but ensure it does not create too strong a current. Sponge filters are a good option as they are gentle and effective.

Diet:

  • Feeding Habits: Oranda Fantails are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods. Offer a balanced diet that includes high-quality goldfish pellets, flakes, and occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms. Supplement their diet with blanched vegetables like peas.

  • Feeding Frequency: Feed them once a day with small portions to avoid overfeeding and maintain water quality.

Behavior:

  • Activity Level: Oranda Fantails are generally active but can be slower and more deliberate in their movements compared to other goldfish varieties. They enjoy exploring their environment and foraging for food.

  • Social Behavior: They are social and do best in groups. They can be shy initially but become more outgoing and interactive with regular care and a stable environment.

Breeding:

  • Breeding Difficulty: Breeding Oranda Fantails can be challenging but is possible with the right conditions. They require a well-maintained tank with clean, cool water and a varied diet to encourage breeding.

  • Sexing: Males often develop breeding tubercles on their gill covers and pectoral fins during the breeding season, while females tend to have a rounder, fuller body.

Care Tips:

  • Water Quality: Maintain excellent water quality with regular water changes (20-30% weekly) and a strong filtration system. They are sensitive to poor water conditions and high levels of ammonia and nitrates.

  • Tank Maintenance: Regularly clean the tank and substrate to prevent the buildup of detritus and algae, which can affect water quality.

  • Acclimation: When introducing new Oranda Fantail Goldfish to your tank, acclimate them slowly to avoid shock from sudden changes in water parameters.

  • Health Monitoring: Keep an eye on their health, especially their wen (the fleshy growth on the head). Ensure the tank is not overcrowded and that water conditions are optimal to prevent infections and other health issues.