All You Need To Know: Ryukin

If you’re into ornamental fish with a flair for drama and grace, the Ryukin is bound to steal your heart. With its distinct humpback, flowing fins and vibrant colour patterns, the Ryukin is one of the most recognisable varieties of fancy goldfish. But owning one isn’t just about admiring its beauty; there's quite a bit to learn to keep your Ryukin happy and healthy.

Let’s break it all down in a simple, readable guide to everything you need to know about the Ryukin.

What is a Ryukin?

The Ryukin is a type of fancy goldfish that originated in Japan, believed to have been brought from China via the Ryukyu Islands, hence the name. It’s best known for its:

• Pronounced shoulder hump behind the head
• Deep, round body
• Flowing, often pointed fins
• Short, stubby tail (in some variations)
  

It’s a showstopper in any aquarium and often seen in red, white, calico, chocolate, and even metallic hues.

Why Choose a Ryukin?

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with a Ryukin:

• Visually striking: That arched back and elegant tail are unlike any other goldfish.
• Hardier than most fancy goldfish: While still delicate, they are more tolerant of fluctuations compared to others like the bubble eye or celestial.
• Peaceful nature: These fish are calm, making them ideal for mixed fancy goldfish tanks.

Types of Ryukin

Not all Ryukins are the same. Here are a few popular varieties you might come across:

• Short-tailed Ryukin: More compact and plump with shorter fins.
  
• Long-tailed Ryukin: Has a dramatic, flowing tail and is especially popular in show tanks.
  
• Calico Ryukin: Features a multicoloured, mottled pattern—often a mix of blue, orange, and black.
  
• Red or Red & White Ryukin: Striking in simplicity, these are among the most common.
  

Setting Up the Perfect Tank for Ryukin

Ryukin goldfish may look delicate, but they’re fairly low-maintenance if given the right setup.

Tank Requirements:

• Minimum tank size: 75 litres per Ryukin
  
• Water temperature: 18°C to 24°C
  
• pH range: 6.5 to 7.5
  
• Filtration: Strong but gentle, these fish are messy eaters! Hence, a proper filtration system is important
  
• Substrate: Smooth gravel or sand to avoid injury
  

Decoration Tips:

• Leave plenty of open swimming space
  
• Avoid sharp-edged decorations
  
• Use real or silk plants for a natural look
  

Feeding Your Ryukin

A well-fed Ryukin is a healthy Ryukin, but moderation is key.

What to feed:

• High-quality goldfish pellets

Intan Goldfish Pellets are high-protein (42%) floating pellets crafted for all Goldfish varieties like Ryukin, Red Cap, Ranchu, and Lionhead. Made with premium ingredients including Antarctic krill, algae, and yeast, they ensure excellent nutrient absorption while keeping water clean. Enriched with beta-carotene, paprika, and natural colour enhancers, these pellets boost Goldfish colour vibrancy and health without artificial additives.

How often:

• 2–3 times a day in small quantities
  
• Remove uneaten food to keep the water clean

Tip: Soak dry food to avoid swim bladder issues—a common concern with fancy breeds like the Ryukin.

Ideal Tank Mates for Ryukin

Ryukins are social, but they thrive best with tank mates that have similar swimming abilities. Ideal companions include:

• Oranda
  
• Ranchu
  
• Fantail
  
• Black Moor
  

Avoid pairing them with fast or fin-nipping fish like tetras or barbs—they’ll stress your Ryukin out.

Common Health Concerns

While fairly robust, they are not immune to issues:

• Swim bladder disorder: Due to their body shape, buoyancy issues are common
  
• Fin rot: Can result from poor water quality
  
• Ich (white spot disease): A common parasite triggered by stress
  

Preventive tips:

• Maintain water hygiene
  
• Quarantine new fish
  
• Observe behaviour changes
  

Fun Facts About Ryukin

• The Ryukin can live up to 15 years (or more!) with proper care
  
• Their signature hump becomes more prominent with age
  
• They’re often featured in aquascaping competitions and goldfish shows
  
  

Is Ryukin the fish for you?

The Ryukin is more than just a beautiful fish, it’s a lively, hardy, and charming companion that can brighten up any aquarium. Whether you’re a seasoned aquarist or a beginner exploring the world of fancy goldfish, the Ryukin offers the perfect mix of elegance and ease.

With the right setup, care, and attention, your Ryukin will thrive and become the centrepiece of your underwater world. So, if you’re ready to add some graceful flair to your tank, the Ryukin is a brilliant choice!

At Intan, we are here to provide you with premium fish feed. Our feed is tailored to meet the specific needs of each species. Every feed can spark positive change and create a future promoting quality, resilience, and well-being. We aim to serve the needs of hobbyists and breeders for the best quality of each species’ unique requirements. To know more about us, check out our Instagram page or contact us. 

We are not just a brand; we are stewards of the underwater world. We believe in the well-being of our friends and their mental health. Understanding and addressing the stressors that affect fish is not just a concept for us, it's a commitment. Through our dedication to research and innovative products, we aim to ensure that fish everywhere can lead happier, healthier lives.