Tosakin (Tosa)
Origin
This very difficult to groom top view fish was developed in Japan before 1868. The exact method of development is unclear, a cross between a Ryukin and a Osaka Ranchu or it is a direct mutation of a Ryukin.
© Merlin Cunliffe 2016
Breed Development
Raising this fish for show is most difficult. Tosakin require shallow, clean water, usually are grown in individual containers or compartments and selection of what fish to work with at young age. Tails are fused. As the fish grow in size, the tail is pushed forward into a forward curl. This development requires no current. The fish that are often entered in shows are not complete in tail fin development. The fish is largely red, white or red/white.
Head
The head is pointed to slightly pointed. They typically have a head like the Ryukin, but can be slightly more rounded like that of a fantail.
Body
The back of the fish has a slight rise, similar to a fantail. It does not have a hump like a Ryukin.
Tail
The tail is fused and resembles a Ryukin tail of medium length. The big difference is the bending forward scroll of the lead fin rays that has to match.
Other Fins
The other fins should be matched. No anal fins are not acceptable; one anal fin is acceptable.
The point schedule for a Tosakin is a 100 points.Tail50Body20Head10Other Fins10Deportment and Condition10100
TailTail has matched forward scroll as in the illustration50Tail scroll is incomplete35-40Tail is not held on an even plane when swimming or at rest25-35Tail is not fusedDisqualified
BodyBody is fantail-like with a very short peduncle, no hump but a slight rise20Body is as above, but out of proportion with the tail10Body has a slight bend to either side5
HeadHead is only slightly rounded or pointed, no head growth or pom poms10Headgrowth presentDisqualifiedMouth turned downDisqualified
Other Fins: Other fins must be matched and not clamped, deduction of 5 to 10 points depending on severity.
Deportment and condition
The Tosakin has an extreme tail development, this development often causes issues with swimming and resting.When swimming and at rest the fish does not list to one side10When swimming the fish move always to one side5-7When resting the fish lists to one side5-8