Panda Oranda (Carassius Auratus)

*Photo used are for reference only, actual fish may not be exact as photo!

Panda Oranda (Carassius auratus) — Bold Contrast, Timeless Elegance

The Panda Oranda (Carassius auratus) is one of the most striking and instantly recognisable varieties of fancy goldfish. Named for its dramatic black-and-white colouration that mirrors the iconic markings of the giant panda, this elegant fish combines the Oranda’s signature flowing fins and distinctive wen (head growth) with a bold, high-contrast pattern that makes it a true showpiece in any aquarium. Graceful, personable, and visually arresting, the Panda Oranda is a collector’s favourite.

Panda Markings, Goldfish Grace

The Panda Oranda’s crisp black-and-white patterning is its defining feature — a bold, graphic contrast that stands out beautifully against any aquarium backdrop. The flowing double tail and elegant finnage drift effortlessly through the water, while the characteristic wen develops in size and texture as the fish matures, adding further individuality to each specimen. No two Panda Orandas are patterned identically, making every fish a unique living work of art.

Care Profile

• Scientific Name: Carassius auratus
• Origin: Selectively bred variety; ancestral wild type from East Asia
• Available Size: 4–5 cm
• Temperament: Peaceful; best kept with other fancy goldfish varieties of similar size and swimming ability
• Diet: Omnivore — accepts high-quality goldfish pellets, gel food, blanched vegetables, and occasional live or frozen foods such as daphnia and bloodworm
• Water Temperature: 15–22°C (cold to cool water; does not require a heater in most Canadian homes)
• pH: 7.0–8.0
• Tank Size: Minimum 150L for one fish; add 40–60L per additional fish — fancy goldfish are heavy waste producers and require excellent filtration
• Note: Avoid housing with fast-swimming single-tail goldfish (comets, shubunkins) which will outcompete them for food

Aquarium & Pond Compatibility

The Panda Oranda thrives in spacious, well-filtered aquariums or outdoor ponds with excellent water quality and regular maintenance. It pairs beautifully with other fancy goldfish varieties — Ryukin, Ranchu, Telescope, and Lionhead — in a classic fancy goldfish display. Smooth substrate and rounded décor are recommended to protect their delicate fins and wen.

Bold, graceful, and unmistakably striking — the Panda Oranda is the fancy goldfish that brings the elegance of black and white to your aquarium.