Red Cap Oranda Aquarium Fish Specifications & Care Guide
Scientific Name: Carassius auratus (fancy goldfish)
Common Names: Red Cap Oranda, Redcap Oranda Goldfish
Type: Freshwater aquarium fish (fancy goldfish variety)
Appearance
Bright snow-white body with a distinctive red "cap (wen) on the head.
Rounded, deep body and long, flowing double tail fin.
The wen is a fleshy head growth that begins forming at 34 months and develops fully in 23 years.
Size & Lifespan
Adult Size: Typically 1525 cm (610 in) total length, including fins; some individuals can reach up to 30 cm (12 in) with excellent care.
Lifespan: Generally 1020 years with proper care and good water quality.
Tank & Water Requirements
Tank Size:
Minimum 75 litres (20 gal) for one fish, but larger is strongly recommended (e.g., 100+ L / 30+ gal) as they grow and produce a lot of waste.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 1824 C (6575 F) cool water is preferred; avoid tropical heat.
pH: 6.08.0 (stable pH is more important than a precise number).
Hardness: 519 dGH.
Filtration & Cleaning:
Goldfish are high waste producers strong filtration + regular water changes are essential.
Low to moderate water flow preferred (strong currents stress fancy goldfish).
Diet
Omnivorous: high-quality sinking pellets or goldfish flakes as staple.
Supplement with frozen/live foods (e.g., brine shrimp, bloodworms) and blanched vegetables (peas, spinach).
Sinking foods help avoid gulping air and reduce swim-bladder issues common to fancy goldfish.
Temperament & Tankmates
Temperament: Peaceful and slowmoving.
Best kept with other fancy goldfish of similar size and care needs.
Avoid fast, aggressive, or very small tankmates (e.g., tiny shrimp/snails) that may be eaten or stressed.
Notes & Tips
The wen (head growth) can be prone to injury and bacterial infection if water quality is poor or the dcor is sharp.
Avoid sharp rocks and decorations; use smooth surfaces and wide open swimming space.
Weekly partial water changes (2530%) help maintain healthy parameters.
Quick Reference Table
Feature Specification
Scientific Name Carassius auratus
Maximum Size 1525 cm (610 in)
Lifespan 1020 years
Temp. 1824 C (6575 F)
pH 6.08.0
Tank Size 75 L / 20 gal (bigger better)
Diet Omnivore (pellets, veggies, live/frozen)
Temperament Peaceful