Milk Cow Ranchu - (No Online Purchases)

Milk Cow Ranchu

The "Milk Cow Ranchu" is a highly sought-after variety of fancy goldfish, easily recognizable by its distinctive black-and-white patterning, similar to that of a Holstein cow. It's a variant of the traditional Ranchu goldfish, originating from Japan, and is prized for its ornamental value and peaceful temperament.

Key Characteristics:

Coloration: Primarily black and white blotches, with minimal to no red. No two fish have exactly the same pattern.

Body Shape: Rounded, egg-shaped body with a pronounced arch in the back and a smooth, curved silhouette due to the complete absence of a dorsal fin.

Head Growth (Wen): Features a well-developed, hood-like growth on its head, which becomes more prominent with age. This wen requires careful attention.

Size: Typically grows to 12-15 cm (around 5-6 inches) in optimal conditions, though some can reach 15-20 cm (6-8 inches).

Movement: Slow swimmer with a gentle, deliberate movement, making them unsuitable for tanks with faster-moving or aggressive fish.

Lifespan: With proper care, Milk Cow Ranchu can live for 10-15 years.

1. Tank Setup:

Tank Size: Due to their size and sensitive swimming, a minimum aquarium volume of 75-80 litres (20 gallons) is recommended for one Milk Cow Ranchu. For each additional fish, increase the volume by at least 35-40 litres (10 gallons).

Tank Shape: Long, shallow tanks are preferable over tall tanks, allowing easier access to the surface and reducing swimming strain.

Filtration: Use a low-flow filter system like a sponge filter or a canister filter with flow control. Strong currents can stress them out and damage their wen. Good filtration is crucial for maintaining excellent water quality.

Substrate: Fine sand or smooth, rounded gravel is recommended to prevent injury to their delicate underbelly as they are bottom feeders.

Decorations: Choose smooth, rounded decorations without sharp edges to avoid damaging their wen or scales. Include open areas for swimming and shaded zones for resting. Hardy, low-light plants like Anubias, Java Fern, and Hornwort are suitable.

Lighting: Moderate lighting is sufficient, with a consistent photoperiod of 8-10 hours per day.

Heating: Maintain water temperature between 20-24°C (68-75°F). An adjustable aquarium heater with a thermostat is recommended for stability.

2. Water Parameters:

Temperature: 20-24°C (68-75°F)

pH Level: 7.0-8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)

Hardness: 100-200 ppm (moderate), or 5-15 dGH (general hardness).

Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm

Nitrate: <30 ppm (Regular water changes are essential to keep these levels low.)

3. Diet:

A balanced diet is essential to prevent buoyancy disorders and maintain coloration.

Feed a varied mix of high-quality sinking pellets (avoid floating food to reduce air ingestion), blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, blanched broccoli, deshelled peas), frozen bloodworms, and daphnia.

Feed small portions 2-4 times a day, enough to be consumed within 30 seconds to 2 minutes.

4. Compatibility:

Milk Cow Ranchu are peaceful and thrive best with similarly tempered, slow-moving species.

Suitable tank mates include other fancy goldfish varieties like Celestial Eye Goldfish, Bubble Eye Goldfish, Lionhead Goldfish, and Pearlscale Goldfish.

Avoid mixing them with fast-swimming or aggressive fish that might outcompete them for food or nip at their fins.

5. General Care and Health:

Water Changes:Perform regular water changes of at least 25-30% weekly to maintain excellent water quality.

Wen Maintenance: Their prominent wen can sometimes trap food particles or become susceptible to infections if not kept clean. Good water quality is key.

Swim Bladder Disease: Fancy goldfish, including Ranchu, are more prone to swim bladder issues due to their body shape. A proper diet (sinking pellets, blanched peas) and avoiding overfeeding can help prevent this.

Observation: Regularly observe your fish for any signs of distress, changes in behavior, appetite, or appearance, to catch problems early.