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The Carassius aureatus, also known as Apache Red & Black Oranda, is an ornamental goldfish variety selected for its striking appearance. It combines a compact body, a well-developed double tail and a fleshy head growth called the wen. Its coloration generally combines red and black areas, although individual patterns can vary considerably. Like other fancy goldfish, it requires clean, well-oxygenated water and a spacious aquarium. This variety is fairly accessible through the specialty trade, while well-balanced specimens with strong coloration remain sought after by aquarists.

General species description

Carassius aureatus is a domestic variety of Carassius aureatus, not a distinct wild population. The Oranda is recognized by its rounded body, slower swimming style and head growth, known as the wen. In the Apache Red & Black form, the contrast between red and black areas is the main visual feature. The wen may develop to different degrees and should not obstruct the eyes, mouth or gill openings. This body shape requires careful water quality management because folds around the head can retain debris. It is a peaceful, social fish that generally suits a cool-water community aquarium when tankmates are calm and water movement remains moderate.

Geographical origin and habitat

Domestic goldfish descend from Asian lineages selected from wild goldfish and have a long breeding history particularly associated with China. In the ornamental fish trade, this variety may be supplied from farms in Indonesia. It does not come from a natural habitat corresponding specifically to this Oranda form. In an aquarium, aim for clear, well-filtered water with moderate circulation, open swimming space and sturdy plants. A temperature of 18 to 24 °C is generally suitable, without sudden changes. A decoration without sharp edges protects its fins and delicate wen.

Precise locality and local name

Within the information provided, the commercial origin is Indonesia, without a precise farm locality. The local name commonly associated with goldfish in Indonesia is ikan mas, literally meaning “golden fish”; depending on context, the expression may also refer to other cyprinids. In stores, this variety is mainly sold under international names such as Oranda, Red & Black Oranda or Apache Oranda. The trade name describes a selective-breeding color pattern, rather than a geographical origin or an official subspecies.

Appearance and physical characteristics

The body is short, deep and rounded, with a relatively broad head and full abdomen. The wen forms a fleshy mass over the top and sides of the head, becoming more prominent with age. The Apache Red & Black variety displays a red base, black or very dark areas and sometimes irregular transitions between colors. Black coloration can change with age, lighting and rearing conditions. The fins should be intact and symmetrical, while the tail is typically double and widely spread. Swimming is less efficient than in streamlined goldfish, so avoid excessively strong filters and fast competitors. Calm water movement and easy access to the surface are especially helpful.

General diet

Carassius aureatus is an omnivore and benefits from a varied diet. A staple of sinking pellets formulated for goldfish helps reduce surface air intake and supports digestion. This can be supplemented with suitable frozen or live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp and bloodworms, along with blanched vegetables including zucchini, shelled peas or spinach. Feed small portions that are eaten quickly to protect water quality. A moderate ration offered once or twice daily helps prevent obesity. Very rich, floating foods should not form the basis of its diet, especially in a fancy goldfish with a compact body and a sensitive buoyancy balance.

Essential data

• Original river name:
• Local name used: ikan mas
• Origin of the scientific name: taxonomic combination attributed to Carl Linnaeus
• Etymology of the full name: Carassius is the Latinized name of a fish group; aureatus means golden or covered with gold
• Common/vernacular names: goldfish, Oranda, Apache Red & Black Oranda
• Family: Cyprinidae
• Subfamily:
• Name pronunciation: ka-RASS-ee-us - aw-ray-AH-tus
• Discovery: Carl Linnaeus, 1758
• Maximum adult size: approximately 25 cm in an aquarium for a well-developed Oranda
• Water temperature and pH: 18 to 24 °C; pH 6.8 to 8.0
• Watercourse appearance and surrounding vegetation: domestic variety; clear, well-filtered aquarium with sturdy plants
• Typical tankmates: other peaceful fancy goldfish of comparable size
• Temperament and behavior: peaceful, social and mainly active during the day; searches the bottom and constantly looks for food
• Water depth: a moderate tank height is preferable so the fish can reach the surface easily
• Sexual dimorphism: difficult to determine outside breeding periods; males may develop breeding tubercles
• Bottom layout and flow: fine sand or rounded gravel; moderate flow without a strong direct current

In your aquarium

To succeed with Carassius aureatus, choose a spacious, long aquarium rather than a small decorative bowl. Efficient biological filtration, regular water changes and good oxygenation support its health. Pay particular attention to the wen, fins and buoyancy. Keep it with goldfish of similar body shape and swimming speed, never with fast or fin-nipping species. A varied diet, sensible portions and safe decoration will help maintain its rounded body shape and high-contrast coloration.