The Type Test for lionheads has a depth of body greater than 1/2 body length whereas the ranchu depth of body is 1/2 the body length, not greater than.
Compared to lionheads, ranchus have a more downturned, tucked-in at a sharp angle, tail and tail fin. The ranchu's tail meets the caudal peduncle at a forty-five degree angle, giving the fish a unique swimming motion.
Their backs are more arched whereas lionheads backs should be flat.