Page 340 - Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish, 3rd Edition

338 POND FISH DIRECTORY

Carassius auratus
Lionhead developed in this variety than in any
other. Lionheads exist in a wide range
The absence of a dorsal fin is a key feature of the of colors, although solid colors such as
Lionhead. The result is a smooth back that curves orange are most commonly seen. They
gently to the double caudal fin, the curvature do not thrive at high temperatures, nor
accentuated by the fish’s relatively long body. As are they hardy in temperate areas.
Lionheads grow older, they develop a distinctive
hood that covers the entire head area. This usually
starts to become evident at the very top of the
head and takes several years to develop to its Compact yet broad
body shape
full extent, when it has a raspberrylike
appearance. The hood is more Red-and-White
Lionhead (above)
This young fish has
yet to develop its
hood. Special diets are
available to promote
the hood’s growth.
Hood is in initial
stages of development
in this blue individual

Blue Lionhead When fully
grown, the hood should cover the
entire head, encircling the eyes.
The head has a wide appearance
when viewed from above.

Carassius auratus
Oranda The coloration of these goldfish is sometimes
unstable, just as it can be in other hooded
The dorsal fin on the back of an Oranda allows it varieties. This is particularly true of
to be distinguished at a glance from other types black-and-orange individuals, in which
of hooded goldfish. The Oranda also has a longer the orange areas often become more
body shape and is a more powerful swimmer. The prominent over time.
hood, or wen as it is called in Japan, is normally
restricted to the top of the head, extending back Blue Oranda In this
over the eyes. In mature individuals, the area increasingly popular color
between the folds of the hood may appear whitish. variety, the underparts are
Although this can look like a sign of disease, it is usually a lighter shade.
actually an accumulation of the protective mucus
produced by the fish’s body.
Relatively long,
double caudal fin Red coloration
but no swelling

Red-Capped Oranda One of the most common Orandas,
this silvery variety is a relatively hardy fish. The red
patterning on the head will develop to form the hood.
ORIGINS Asia, originally from SIZE Highly variable; often DIET Goldfish food (flakes WATER Temperature 50–77°F TEMPERAMENT Relatively
waterways in southern China. exceeds 12 in (30 cm) in ponds. or pellets) and live foods. (10–25°C) and neutral (pH 7.0). social, but does not shoal.

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