Orochi Medaka appraisal

The defining characteristic is complete all-black coloration—the body, fins, eyes, and peritoneum are uniformly jet-black. The depth and uniformity of black are central to evaluation, and the absence of other colors is required for high grades.

解説用イラスト: Orochi Medaka — AI-generated illustration for explanation. Not an actual listed individual.

What determines the price

Black depth and uniformity across the entire body
High
The depth and uniformity of black across the entire body are the most important evaluation criteria. Individuals closer to jet-black rather than pale black receive higher ratings.
Eye color (whether the eyes are black)
High
Black eyes and the absence of grape-colored or orange eyes are important conditions for Orochi. Eye color is one of the critical selection criteria.
Complete all-black coloration including fins
Medium
Check that black coloring is uniformly distributed, including the fins. Individuals with transparent fins may have weak all-black traits.
Body shape and health condition
Medium
Body shape is well-proportioned and healthy. Black coloration may fade if the fish's condition declines.

Appraisal points

Assess the depth of black coloration across the entire body

Good:: The entire body, abdomen, and fins display deep jet-black coloration with uniform color distribution.
Caution:: If the abdomen appears whitish or the fins are transparent, it may indicate that the all-black trait has not been fully expressed.

Check the eye color

Good:: The eyes are black and appear visually as dark eyes.
Caution:: If the eyes are orange or reddish, it may indicate that breed traits have been mixed in.

Check the stability of black coloration

Good:: The black is stable and does not change significantly with changes in condition.
Caution:: In individuals where black becomes lighter due to stress or poor condition, assess the stability of color.