| Tosakin | |
 |
|
 Name |
Tosakin |
| Japanese name |
Tosakin |
| Year of Origin |
The late Edo Era (1845-1851) |
| Country of Origin |
Japan |
| Breeder |
Katsusaburo Suga (a lower-ranking samurai in the Tosa clan, Kochi Prefecture) |
| History/ Background |
It is believed that Katsusaburo Suga, from the Tosa clan, created the Tosakin
by cross-breeding the Osakaranchu and the Ryukin sometime between 1845
and 1851 (There is also a theory that it was made through Ryukin mutation).
The Tosakin was considered extinct as a result of both devastation following
World War II and the Nankai Earthquake in 1946, however, miraculously,
six of them were found at a restaurant in Kochi Prefecture. It is said
that Hiroe Tamura, who had a close relationship with the Suga family, asked
to exchange the Tosakin for bottles of shochu (Japanese spirits). Since
all Tosakin originated from these six Tosakin, they are predisposed to
weakness (they are too closely related). In 1969, the Tosakin was registered
as a protected species in Kochi Prefecture. |
| Features |
It is a local goldfish, specialty of Kochi Prefecture, that has been reared
in Kochi Castle since the Edo Era. They have the same body shape as the
Ryukin. Its most unique features are its pointed mouth and triple fantail.
The basic color is red or red-and-white. They tend to keep their body color,
and some of them will not fade even after they become three years old.
They are very elegant and popular, and are currently reared not only within
Kochi Prefecture but in all areas of Japan by goldfish lovers. It is usual
to view them from the top. |
| Acquisition difficulties |
Difficult. Although the number of Tosakin is greater than before, they
are still very few compared to other kinds of goldfish, and are difficult
to acquire. |
| Rearing difficulties |
Difficult. In order to strengthen the Tosakin’s unique fantail, it is necessary
to keep them in a round bowl during the first year. Also, because of their
history of being closely related and predisposition to weakness, breeding
is difficult. While other goldfish which prefer old water, the Tosakin
prefers new water, so it needs to be changed frequently, especially in
summer. Raising a Tosakin is for the experienced. |
| Details of the above photo |
The goldfish in the picture is the goldfish that received first prize in
the Tosakin division at the 2006 Goldfish Evaluation Convention in Shizuoka
Prefecture. |
| Other |
It is not only referred to as the Tosakin, but also the Tosakingyo (the
Tosa goldfish). |
