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A medaka with powerful scale shine reminiscent of a dragon. Iron mask type head gloss is particularly beautiful.
Dragon medaka is an improved variety with especially strong Miyuki-lineage external body light covering the body like dragon scales. The 'iron mask' type — where metallic sheen covers the entire head — is particularly prized, and the light develops noticeably as the fish matures. White containers allow easy inspection of light coverage extent; dark containers make the light stand out most for viewing. Selective breeding of wide-coverage individuals maintains strong-light lineages. Considered among the finest Miyuki-lineage varieties.
The Dragon Medaka lives 2-3 years.
The Dragon Medaka grows to 2-4cm.
The ideal water temperature for the Dragon Medaka is 18〜24℃.
Maintaining water temperature around 28°C from the juvenile stage promotes maximum external light development. Hardy in 5–30°C.
Origin
Japan (selectively bred variety)
Lifespan
2-3 years
Size
2-4cm
Temperature
5〜30℃
Sources: FishBase: Oryzias latipes / Seriously Fish: Oryzias latipes
Selectively bred killifish are trait combinations of body form × body color × pattern × luminescence (internal/external) × scale types (transparent scales) × sparkle × fin morphology and so forth. Published entries include only confirmed traits constituting the given variety, with genetic inheritance patterns provided only for confirmed traits (uncertain cases omitted). Genetic patterns are provided as reference for breeding.
Sources: JMA Japan Medaka Association — Improved Medaka Variety Classification Manual (JA) / Improved Medaka Web Encyclopedia (medakazukan, JA)
A curated selection of notable morphs. Inheritance modes are a breeding-planning guide; actual appearance varies with combos.
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: (Temminck & Schlegel, 1846)
Synonyms: Aplocheilus latipes (Temminck & Schlegel, 1846), Poecilia latipes Temminck & Schlegel, 1846, Oryzias latipes latipes (Temminck & Schlegel, 1846)
Authority databases: FishBase · GBIF · Japan Medaka Association — Variety Classification Manual (JA)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Find listings for this species
Artificial feed, Daphnia
White containers help extend the dorsal iridescence, and the fry-stage environment affects the adult's shine. The 'iron mask' luster strengthens with growth.
Around 28C encourages the body-line lustre
Adapts to 5-30°C and neutral to slightly alkaline water and is easy to keep. Avoid sudden temperature changes.
Pairing fish with extensive body-line lustre maintains a strong-light line. Repeated selection raises the quality of the lustre.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Dragon Medaka is 18〜24℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Dragon Medaka is 2-3 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Dragon Medaka typically reaches 2-4cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Dragon Medaka feeds on: Artificial feed, Daphnia. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Dragon Medaka varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026