Anatomy
What a judge looks at
At a Japanese show, ranchu are placed in white tubs and viewed from directly above. The standard is a smooth outline from nose to tail with no bumps, a broad head, and a tail that sits flat and even.
1
WenThe raspberry-like growth on the head, cheeks and gill covers. It develops from about a year old and keeps growing.
2
Back curveA smooth arch with no dorsal fin and no spikes or dips along the ridge. The most-judged line on the fish.
3
Tail jointThe peduncle should turn down at roughly 45° so the tail sits flat when seen from above.
4–7
Tail and outlineTail lobes even and spread, body broad and balanced. From the top, the fish should read as one clean shape.