Jikin

The rarest type of goldfish. It is practically not found in amateur aquariums, since since 1958 its distribution has been limited due to being included in the list of protected species of Aichi Prefecture (Japan). The history of the species begins in the 17th century, when Ryukin was bred from an ordinary Goldfish, and Jikin became a side branch of selection, for hundreds of years it was developed in the region now known as Nagoya Prefecture.

Due to the common origin, this variety has common features with Ryukin. The body shape is rounded with a large belly and short. The caudal fin is divided into four parts, the top two are raised. If you look at the fish from behind, then the tail takes on the shape of the letter “X” (x). For such a feature in Europe and America, Jikin is sometimes called the “Peacock Tail”.

The main feature is the color of the body. On a white background, there are bright orange areas located in strictly defined places: the mouth, gill covers, ventral, dorsal and anal fins, the area near the anal fin, and the tail. Such a color is considered a reference, but practically does not occur, therefore it is achieved artificially. Breeders use several methods: injecting dye where there is a lack of color, and removing pigment where it is excessive. It is worth noting that in Western countries such methods are condemned and subject to local animal protection laws.

More about keeping a common Goldfish