August 20, 2013
Researchers develop new goldfish with Ponyo-like appeal
Arubino Chotengan (Albino celestial eye goldfish) (Photo by Ryo Aibara)- Arubino Chotengan (Albino celestial eye goldfish) (Photo by Ryo Aibara)
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YATOMI, Aichi Prefecture--It has taken six years, but an Aichi Fisheries Research Institute has finally succeeded in developing a new breed of goldfish with prominent eyes that resembles the beloved animated goldfish princess Ponyo.
The Yatomi instruction center of the Aichi Fisheries Research Institute named the new goldfish “Arubino Chotengan” (Albino celestial eye goldfish), which it produced by breeding Arubino Ranchu (Albino ranchu) and a traditional "chotengan" goldfish, which are believed to have emerged from mutation in China during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912).
Researchers are placing high expectations on the new cuddly goldfish, which many believe resembles the heroine in director Hayao Miyazaki's 2008 hit film "Gake no Ue no Ponyo" (Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea).
“Its unique features will please children,” one researcher said.
The project to develop new goldfish started in 1988 at the center, whose primary role is to prevent disease in goldfish. The research center in Yatomi, one of the largest goldfish breeding and farming areas in Japan, has been in operation since 1973 and has a staff of three.
The Arubino Chotengan is the third new goldfish breed developed there since 2007.
Chief researcher Atsushi Miyamoto, 52, and other researchers said, “The albino goldfish’s red eyes stands out more when breeding with celestial eye goldfish.”
The researchers are working in conjunction with the Yatomi Kingyo Gyogyo Kyodo Kumiai (Yatomi goldfish fishery industry cooperative association), and will continue to try to perfect the new type of goldfish. They said it is expected to be available on the market in a few years at the earliest.
The Arubino Chotengan will be displayed at Kintetsu Yatomi station on the Kintetsu Nagoya Line from Aug. 24-30.
