Miyuki Medaka appraisal
External body sheen (metallic light on the back) is the most distinctive characteristic. When the sheen coverage extends continuously from head to the tip of the tail fin—referred to as "full body"—it is considered the highest grade, with the extent of the sheen and the clarity of color being the essence of the evaluation.

What determines the price
Extent of body sheen coverage (full body, etc.)
HighBody sheen (the metallic light on the back) coverage from head to tail tip is the core of evaluation. Greater full-body coverage receives higher ratings.
Color and clarity of body sheen.
HighThe combination of body sheen color (such as silver, blue, green, or sky blue) with the base body color affects quality. Individuals with clear, vivid sheen are rated higher than those with dull sheen.
Body Shape Balance
MediumAs a foundation for displaying body sheen effectively, proper body shape is also important.
Strain Stability
MediumLineage information regarding whether body sheen appears stably across generations is also valuable for evaluation.
Appraisal points
Check the extent of body sheen coverage.

- Good:
- The external light stripe extends unbroken from the head to near the base of the tail fin (full-body or better).
- Caution:
- Individuals with the light stripe only on part of the back are at a selection stage with weak external coloration.
Examine the color and clarity of the light stripe.
- Good:
- The external light stripe is clear and luminous, with beautiful harmony between the stripe and base color.
- Caution:
- If the stripe is dull or has a brownish tint, condition assessment is necessary.
Examine the condition of the tail fin.
- Good:
- The tail fin is symmetrical on both sides and spreads cleanly, with the external light stripe continuing to the tail fin.
- Caution:
- Bent or missing tail fins may indicate transport damage.
Price tiers by grade
Entry-level grade
A stage where the external light stripe appears on only part of the back (half-body or less).
Intermediate grade
Half to three-quarter body. The external light stripe spans a wide range.
Premium grade
Full-body or better, with clear coloration and the light stripe extending to the tail fin; a selected individual.
For actual prices, see the market-price page.
Appraisal quiz
What is "full-body," frequently used in evaluating the external light stripe of Mikino?
Other Medaka appraisals
General information on judging value; not a guarantee of any individual's price or quality. See the market-price page for actual rates.