Short-Tail Oranda: A Modern Breed

The emergence of the Short-Tail Oranda represents a significant milestone—both aesthetically and genetically. This variety, blending characteristics of several well-established breeds, has rapidly gained popularity worldwide and is increasingly regarded as a compelling counterpart to the Ranchu.

The Short-Tail Oranda is a breed characterized by a unique combination of traits: it typically possesses the compact, deep-bodied frame and fin structure of a Ryukin, coupled with the prominent head growth, or wen, of an Oranda. This synthesis results in a striking phenotype that combines bold form with ornamental elegance.

Kirin Short-Tail Oranda

Kirin Ryukin

The dorsal fin, often a defining feature for aesthetic judgment in Goldfish, is more harmoniously integrated in contemporary Short-Tail Oranda than in earlier iterations of the breed. Early examples, sometimes referred to by the Chinese term Yuanbao, bore closer resemblance to Ranchu–Oranda crosses, but the placement and balance of the dorsal fin often lacked visual symmetry in our opinion. Modern breeding efforts have refined this feature significantly.

One of the most impressive features of the Short-Tail Oranda is its growth capacity. Here at Ping Pong Pearlscales, specimens have been observed reaching sizes of up to 19cm before being sold, with no notable plateau in growth rate. This suggests robust physiological health and a high potential for size, making them a rewarding variety for both hobbyists and competitive breeders.

Incredible 18cm Short-Tail Oranda

The Short-Tail Oranda originated in Thailand and gained widespread recognition through the efforts of Shogun Farm, leading to its occasional alternative name: “Shogun Oranda.” Despite its relatively recent development, the breed has now been distributed internationally, with enthusiasts and breeders in many countries actively working with the strain.

Behaviorally, Short-Tail Oranda deviate from their Ryukin ancestors. While Ryukin can sometimes exhibit more aggressive or assertive tendencies, Short-Tail Oranda are notably more placid. This temperamental shift could be partially attributed to the Oranda lineage or perhaps just growing wen makes Fancy Goldfish more pleasant.

Young Short-Tail Oranda

Recognizing the growing demand and appeal of the breed, we undertook three dedicated spawns this year: two Kirin-patterned and one Metallic. While early success was marred by water quality issues—resulting in high fry mortality (post-culling, arghhh!)—select survivors from the initial group demonstrated promising size and vigour. These individuals were isolated before the water disaster to prevent predation on smaller fry, a common risk in early-stage goldfish breeding.

Tiger Short-Tail Oranda

With its peaceful disposition, impressive size potential, and refined appearance, Short-Tail Oranda are poised to play a prominent role in the future of Fancy Goldfish breeding. As interest continues to grow globally, further refinement and line development will likely yield even more remarkable specimens in the years to come.

Thank you for taking the time to delve into this post. We'd be thrilled to hear about your experiences with Goldfish breeding. What challenges have you encountered, and what successes have brought joy to your aquatic endeavours? Your insights enrich our community, so please feel free to share your thoughts!