Ryukin Goldfish Care, Lifespan, Behaviour, Diet & All | 2024

Ryukin Goldfish are a type of fancy Goldfish. They are characterized by their high, humpbacked dorsal fin and long flowing tail. Ryukins come in various colors, including red, orange, yellow, white, and calico. The Ryukin Goldfish was developed in Japan. It is named after the Ryukyu Islands, off the coast of Japan.

This guide will teach you everything you need to know about keeping and caring for Ryukin Goldfish.

Species Summary

Scientific name:	Carassius auratus
Common name:	Ryukin Goldfish
Origin:	Developed in Japan
Size:	Up to 8 inches long
Life span:	10-15 years, sometimes longer
Tank size:	Minimum 10 gallons for a single fish, 20 gallons for a pair
Compatibility:	Generally peaceful but can be aggressive towards other Goldfish
Water temperature range:	64-72°F (18-22°C)
Water pH range:	6.0-8.0.
Water hardness range:	5-19 dGH.
Water Type:	Freshwater
Nature:	Peaceful
Care Level:	Easy
Diet:	Omnivorous

The exact origins of the Ryukin Goldfish are unknown, but it is thought to have originated in Japan in the 1770s. They were developed from a type of Goldfish called the wakin.

Today, the Ryukin Goldfish is a popular aquarium fish around the world. They are known for their high, humpbacked dorsal fin and long, flowing tail.

If you've ever been interested in adding a Ryukin Goldfish to your home aquarium, this guide is for you. This article will discuss everything you need to know about keeping and caring for these fascinating fish.

Ryukin Goldfish Size & Growth Rate

Like many other Goldfish, Ryukins can grow very large if given the opportunity. In the wild, they can reach lengths of up to 8 inches. However, most specimens will grow to be between 4 and 6 inches long in an aquarium setting.

The growth rate of Ryukin Goldfish is also much slower than that of other common goldfish varieties. They typically take 2 to 4 years to reach their full size.

Ryukin Goldfish Lifespan

Ryukin lifespan can vary, but most can be expected to live for 10-15 years. In some cases, they may even live for longer than 15 years.

While they are not the longest-lived goldfish variety, they are still a long-term commitment and should not be considered a temporary pet.

Ryukin Goldfish Appearance

Ryukin Goldfish are easily recognizable by their high, humpbacked dorsal fin and long, flowing tail. They come in various colors, including red, orange, yellow, white, and calico.

These fish have a unique appearance and are popular with aquarium enthusiasts worldwide. They're egg-shaped and typically grow between 4 and 8 inches long.

On top of the body is a humpbacked dorsal fin, usually much taller than in other goldfish varieties. It connects the head to the tail and is often the most colorful part of the fish.

The tail is long and flowing and can be a different color than the body. Many Ryukins have black tails with brightly-colored fins. When you combine the dorsal fin with the tail, it creates an exquisite and graceful fish.

Ryukin Goldfish Behavior & Temperament

Goldfish are very social fish and should be kept in at least three groups. They are very active fish and require a lot of space to swim.

Goldfish can be temperamental and should not be handled too much. Make sure to consult the owner's manual for specific instructions on how to care for your Goldfish.

They're much more vigorous than a common goldfish and can be pretty nippy, so they're not the best option if you have young children.

Ryukin Goldfish Breeding

Ryukin Goldfish are a popular breed of Goldfish and can be bred to create new color variations. The breeding process of Ryukin Goldfish is relatively simple and can be done at home with a few basic supplies.

To breed Ryukin Goldfish, you will need:

• Tank: A tank is required to breed Ryukin Goldfish.
• Heater: A heater is required to keep the water temperature stable.
• Filter: A filter is required to keep the water clean.
• Breeding net: A breeding net separates the male and female fish.
• Spawning mops: Spawning mops are used to collect eggs.
• Peat moss: Peat moss is used to keep the eggs moist.

Ryukin Goldfish Care Guide

Ryukin Goldfish care is relatively easy, making them a good choice for beginner aquarists. They are peaceful and can be kept with other goldfish varieties without problems.

They will eat almost anything you give them, but it is essential to provide a varied diet to ensure they receive all their nutrients.

As with other fish, you must provide a suitable tank size and water conditions. It is also essential to provide your Ryukin Goldfish with plenty of hiding places and decorations to help them feel secure.

Regular water changes and filter maintenance are essential for the health of your fish. Of course, there are some things you will want to avoid when keeping Ryukins, such as high temperatures and sudden changes in water conditions.

Here are some basic guidelines for keeping Ryukin Goldfish in your home aquarium.

Ryukin Goldfish Food & Diet

Providing fish with a healthy diet is essential to keep them healthy and happy.

There are several different types of food available for Goldfish, including:

• Flake food: Flake food is the most common food available for Goldfish. It is a dried food that can be either fed to the fish directly or used to supplement their diet.
• Gel food: Gel food comprises small pieces of food suspended in water. It can be fed to the fish directly or used to supplement their diet.
• Bloodworms: Bloodworms are a type of worm that is found in freshwater. They can be fed to the fish directly or used to supplement their diet.
• Mysis shrimp: Mysis shrimp are a type of shrimp found in freshwater. They can be fed to the fish directly or used to supplement their diet.

Hikari's Bio-Gold is an excellent option to supplement that meal with a portion of good flake food.

Ensure the owner's manual for the specific instructions on what type of food to feed your fish.

Ryukin Goldfish Diet Foods To Avoid

There are several different foods that you should avoid feeding your Goldfish, including:

• Algae wafers: Algae wafers are a food designed to help with algae control. They should not be fed to Goldfish as they can cause health problems.
• Chips and crackers: Chips and crackers should not be fed to Goldfish as they can cause health problems.
• Raw vegetables: Raw vegetables should not be fed to Goldfish as they can cause health problems.

Tank Size

A minimum tank size of 10 gallons is recommended for a single Ryukin Goldfish. However, you will need a larger tank if you plan to keep more than one fish. It is essential to provide plenty of swimming space for these active fish.

Before you do anything, it's a good idea to measure your tank and ensure you have enough room for a Ryukin.

However, it's a good idea to remember that the larger the tank, the better. A 20-gallon tank or larger is ideal for keeping multiple Ryukins.

Water Parameters

The Ryukin Goldfish is a hardy fish and can tolerate various water conditions. However, it is essential to keep the following parameters in mind:

Water Temperature: The Ryukin Goldfish can tolerate a temperature range of 64°-72°F (18°-22°C). They should not be kept in water that is below 64°F (18°C) or above 72°F (22°C).

Water pH: The Ryukin Goldfish can adapt to a pH range of 6.0-8.0. It's important to note that the ideal pH for Goldfish is 7.0. However, most aquariums cannot maintain a pH of 7.0, so 6.0-8.0 is acceptable.

Water Hardness: The Ryukin Goldfish can live in water with a hardness range of 5-19 dGH. This means the water can be soft or hard, but they prefer a hardness of 10-20 dGH.

Water Type: The Ryukin Goldfish is a freshwater fish that should only be kept in aquariums.

Water Changes: It is essential to regularly change the water in your aquarium to keep your fish healthy. The frequency of water changes will depend on the size of your aquarium, the type of fish you are keeping, and other factors. Generally, changing at least 25% of the water in your aquarium every week is recommended.

Keeping the water parameters in these ranges is vital to keep your Ryukin Goldfish healthy. You can use a water test kit to measure your aquarium water's pH, hardness, and temperature. If the levels are not within the recommended range, you can take steps to adjust them.

Filtration

Goldfish produce a lot of waste, and it is essential to have a sound filtration system to keep the water clean. A good filtration system will remove ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate from the water.

Using a filter with a flow rate of at least 10 gallons per hour is recommended for a 10-gallon tank. You will need a filter with a higher flow rate for a larger tank.

It is also essential to clean the filter regularly to keep it working correctly.

Some of the famous filters are:

• Aqua Clear Power Filter: These filters come in various sizes and can be used on tanks up to 150 gallons. They have a flow rate of up to 190 gallons per hour and efficiently remove harmful toxins from the water.
• Aqua-Tech Power Filter: These filters are available in several sizes and can be used on tanks up to 60 gallons. They have a flow rate of up to 75 gallons per hour and effectively remove ammonia and other toxins from the water.
• Marineland Emperor 400: This filter is designed for tanks up to 400 gallons. It has a flow rate of up to 400 gallons per hour and is very good at removing harmful toxins from the water.
• Fluval C3 Power Filter: This filter is designed for up to 60 gallons of tanks. It has a flow rate of up to 155 gallons per hour and is excellent at removing harmful toxins from the water.

Choosing a filter appropriate for your tank's size and the number of fish you are keeping is essential. Read the specifications carefully to find the right filter for you.

Heater

The Ryukin Goldfish can tolerate a water temperature range of 64°-72°F (18-22°C). If the water temperature in your aquarium falls outside this range, you must use a heater to warm it up.

Aquarium heaters are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. You are choosing a heater that is appropriate for the size of your tank.

It is also essential to set the heater to the correct temperature. Most heaters have a dial or adjustment knob to set the desired temperature. Check the owner's manual for your heater to determine how to set it correctly.

Some of the famous heaters are:

• Eheim Jager Heater: This is available in various sizes and can be used on tanks up to 300 gallons. It has a built-in thermostat that allows you to set the desired temperature.
• Aquatop Heater: This is available in various sizes and can be used on tanks up to 100 gallons. It has a built-in thermostat that allows you to set the desired temperature.
• Hydor Theo Heater: This is available in various sizes and can be used on tanks up to 100 gallons. It has a built-in thermostat that allows you to set the desired temperature.

It is essential to choose a heater appropriate for the size of your tank and the number of fish you are keeping. Read the specifications carefully to find the right heater for you.

Lighting

Goldfish need light to live and grow healthy. It is essential to provide your aquarium with enough light for your fish.

How much light your aquarium needs will depend on the size of the tank, the type of fish you are keeping, and other factors.

For a 10-gallon tank, it is recommended to use a light that has a wattage of at least 20 watts.

You will need a light with a higher wattage for a larger tank.

There are a variety of different types of aquarium lights available, including:

• Fluorescent Tubes: These tubes come in various sizes and colors and can be used on tanks up to 55 gallons.
• Compact Fluorescent Lights: These lights are available in various sizes and colors and can be used on tanks up to 55 gallons.
• Metal Halide Lights: These lights are available in various sizes and colors and can be used on tanks up to 250 gallons.
• LED Lights: These lights are available in various sizes and colors and can be used on tanks up to 55 gallons.

Choosing a light appropriate for the size of your tank and the type of fish you are keeping is essential. Read the specifications carefully to find the right light for you.

Air Pump

Goldfish need oxygen to breathe; a good air pump is essential for keeping your aquarium healthy.

An air pump will help to circulate the water in your tank and keep the oxygen levels up. You are choosing an air pump that is appropriate for the size of your tank.

Air pumps are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. You are choosing an air pump that is appropriate for the size of your tank.

Choosing an air pump with the correct amperage for your tank is also essential. Most air pumps come with an amperage rating on the package or in the owner's manual.

Some of the famous air pumps are:

• Aqua-Tech Air Pump: This air pump is available in various sizes and can be used on tanks up to 200 gallons.
• SunSun JP-055 Air Pump: This air pump is available in various sizes and can be used on tanks up to 55 gallons.

It is essential to choose an appropriate air pump for the size of your tank and the type of fish you are keeping. Read the specifications carefully to find the right air pump for you.

Aquarium Decor

Aquarium decor is a great way to add interest and beauty to your tank. Providing your fish with a place to hide and play is also essential.

There are a variety of different types of aquarium decor available, including:

Plants: Live plants are a great way to add interest and beauty to your aquarium. They also provide a place for your fish to hide and play.

There are a variety of different types of live plants available, including:

• Frogbit: Frogbit is a small plant that can be used in tanks with a depth of up to 12 inches.
• Water Lilies: Water Lilies come in various colors and can be used in tanks with a depth of up to 24 inches.
• Java Fern: Java Fern is a small plant that can be used in tanks with a depth of up to 12 inches.

Bogwood: Bogwood is a natural wood submerged in water for many years. It is a great way to add interest and beauty to your aquarium.

Rocks: Rocks are a great way to add interest and beauty to your aquarium. They also provide a place for your fish to hide and play.

There are a variety of different types of rocks available, including:

• Granite: Granite is a type of rock that is available in a variety of colors.
• Sandstone: Sandstone is a type of rock that is available in a variety of colors.
• Lava Rock: Lava Rock is a type of rock that is available in a variety of colors.

It is essential to choose aquarium decor appropriate for the size of your tank and the type of fish you are keeping. Read the specifications carefully to find the right decor for you.

Cleaning The Tank

It is essential to clean your tank regularly to keep it healthy and looking its best.

There are several different ways to clean your tank, including:

• Vacuuming the Gravel: One way to clean your tank is to vacuum the gravel. This can be done with a regular aquarium vacuum or a gravel vacuum.
• Cleaning the Glass: Another way to clean your tank is to clean the glass. This can be done with a regular or fish-safe glass cleaner.
• Cleaning the Filter: Another way to clean your tank is to clean the filter. This can be done by rinsing it in water or using a chemical filter cleaner.

It is essential to clean your tank regularly to keep it healthy and looking its best. Consult the owner's manual for specific instructions on cleaning your tank.

Common Possible Diseases In Ryukin Goldfish

Several common diseases can affect your fish, including:

• Dropsy: Dropsy is a condition that causes the fish to appear bloated.
• Ichthyophthirius: Ichthyophthirius is a condition that causes fish to have white spots on their body.
• Fin Rot: Fin Rot is a condition that causes the fins to rot and fall off.
• Columnaris: Columnaris are a condition that causes the fish to have a cottony appearance on their body.
• Swim bladder disorders: Swim bladder disorders are a condition that causes fish to have problems swimming.

Awareness of these common diseases and appropriate action if your fish become infected is essential. Make sure to consult a veterinarian if you are unsure what to do.

Treatment And Medications Of Ryukin Goldfish Diseases

Some several different treatments and medications can be used to treat diseases in fish, including:

• Antibiotics: Antibiotics are a type of medication that can be used to treat various diseases.
• Aquarium Salt: Aquarium salt can be used to treat various diseases.
• Praziquantel: Praziquantel is a medication that can treat a variety of diseases.

Make sure to follow the specific instructions for the treatment or medication you use.

The most common way to prevent these diseases is to keep your tank clean and healthy. Consult the owner's manual for specific instructions on cleaning your tank.

Ryukin Goldfish Tank Mates

Ryukin Goldfish are lively fish and should be kept in a tank with other active fish. They can be territorial and should not be kept with fish they may perceive as threatening.

Goldfish can be kept with a variety of different tank mates, including:

• Fantail: Fantail goldfish are a good tank mate for Ryukin Goldfish.
• Other Goldfish: Goldfish can be kept with Goldfish as they are very social fish.
• Comet: Comet goldfish are a good tank mate for Ryukin Goldfish.
• Cichlids: Cichlids can be kept with Goldfish but should not be kept with other types of fish.
• Shubunkin: Shubunkin goldfish are a good tank mate for Ryukin Goldfish.
• Betta fish: Betta fish can be kept with Goldfish but should not be kept with other types of fish.

Consult the owner's manual for specific instructions on what type of tank mates are compatible with your Goldfish.

Fish to Avoid

Ryukin Goldfish should not be kept with the following types of fish:

• Pufferfish: Pufferfish can be deadly to Goldfish.
• Catfish: Catfish can be deadly to Goldfish.
• Piranha: Piranha can be deadly to Goldfish.
• Other aggressive fish: Other aggressive fish can be deadly to Goldfish.

Conditioning The Fish

Before you begin breeding Ryukin Goldfish, you must condition the fish. This can be done by feeding them a high-quality diet and stabilizing the water temperature.

• Separating The Male And Female Fish: Once the fish are properly conditioned, you must separate the male and female fish. This can be done using a breeding net. The male fish will have a more elongated body shape and a brighter color than the female fish.
• Mating: Once the male and female fish are adequately separated, you can breed them. The process of mating will vary depending on the specific type of Goldfish. Ensure to consult the owner's manual for specific instructions on how to mate your Goldfish.
• The Eggs: Once the fish have mated, the female will release her eggs. These eggs will sink to the bottom of the tank and must be collected using a spawning mop. The eggs must be kept moist and stored in peat moss until they are ready to hatch.
• The Hatching Process: The hatching process will vary depending on the specific type of Goldfish. Consult the owner's manual for specific instructions on hatching your goldfish eggs.
• Raising The Young Fish: Once the eggs have hatched, you must raise the young fish. This can be done by feeding them a high-quality diet and stabilizing the water temperature.

Advantages Of Having Ryukin Goldfish In Your Tank

• The first advantage of having Ryukin Goldfish in your tank is that they are very social fish and will interact with other fish in the tank.
• The second advantage of having Ryukin Goldfish in your tank is that they are a popular breed of Goldfish and can be bred to create new color variations.
• The third advantage of having Ryukin Goldfish in your tank is that they are a hardy breed of Goldfish and can withstand a wide range of water conditions.
• The fourth advantage of having Ryukin Goldfish in your tank is that they are a beautiful breed of fish and will add color and interest to your tank.

So, as you can see, there are many advantages of having Ryukin Goldfish in your tank.

Disadvantages Of Having Ryukin Goldfish In Your Tank

The only disadvantage of having Ryukin Goldfish in your tank is that they can be aggressive toward other fish. So, if you plan to add other fish to your tank, do so cautiously.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

So, as you can see, there are advantages and disadvantages to having Ryukin Goldfish in your tank. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether or not they are the right fish for you. Thank you for reading!