The Oranda is one of several varieties of what is commonly known as the Goldfish, Carassius auratus auratus. The Goldfish originally came from parts of Asia, China, and Japan, but now enjoys worldwide distribution due to controlled breeding programs. Resembling the Veil Tail varieties, the Oranda's distinction is in the "hood" that covers its head. Some Orandas have warty growths covering the entire head, including the opercula. There is a high tendency for the eyes to be embedded in the warty head-growth, making them almost invisible. The Oranda Goldfish comes in many colors, including the Red Cap, Red, Red/Black, Blue, Red/White, Calico, Chocolate, and Black Oranda.

The Oranda Goldfish is born without any head-growth. The growth begins to thicken and fold three to four months after hatching. It may take up to two years for the head-growth to be fully developed and its development is affected by a number of factors, including the quality of water in which the fish lives and its diet. A stable, clean tank and a protein-rich diet will enhance the development of the head-growth.

All goldfish are members of the carp group and are generally quite hardy. The Oranda will do well in a tank of 30 gallons of water or more with a fine gravel bottom and hardy, cold water plants. Goldfish are diggers and will scatter the fine sand onto leaves, injuring thin and less hardy plants. Roots and well-rounded river rocks are a good addition to the aquarium.

There appears to be a definite courtship ritual when Goldfish breed. Breeding often results in up to 1,000 eggs, with fry hatching in 5-6 days. The fry should be fed small pieces of live or prepared foods designed for egg-laying fish.

Goldfish are omnivorous and will eat all types of dried and live foods. Limit protein, however, to 30% of the diet. A Goldfish flake or pellet food will provide these fish with the proper nutrition.

Ideal tank mates include: Goldfish, Plecos, and some scavenger Catfish.