Lionhead Goldfish: All Wen, No Dorsal Fin

In this guide

Overview

The lionhead is a Chinese fancy goldfish variety, and the older of the two closely related wen-headed breeds that also includes the Japanese ranchu. It is distinguished from the ranchu by a flatter back and a fuller, often larger head growth that can eventually cover much of the face.

Like the ranchu, it has no dorsal fin, giving it a smooth, rounded silhouette from nose to tail. Adults reach around fifteen to eighteen centimetres.

Tank requirements

A single lionhead needs at least seventy five litres, with smooth decor to protect the developing wen from scrapes. Being a slower, less agile swimmer without a dorsal fin, it should be kept with equally calm tankmates rather than fast common goldfish.

No heater is needed anywhere in India, and lionheads tend to do best in the cooler end of the temperature range other tropical fish would find chilly.

Diet and care

A varied diet of sinking pellets, blanched vegetables and occasional live food supports healthy wen growth, which continues to develop for the first couple of years of the fish's life.

Mature male lionheads can periodically shed small patches of wen tissue as part of a natural cycle, which can look alarming to a new owner but is not usually a health concern if water quality is otherwise good.

Buying tips

• Priced from around one hundred fifty to five hundred rupees depending on wen development
• Indian shops sometimes label ranchu and lionhead interchangeably, so ask to see the back curve and tail angle if you want a specific variety
• Buy from tanks that look clean and well maintained, since wen infections often begin at the point of sale

Article content © Ravi Teja. All rights reserved.