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Ikazuchi Medaka
IntermediateOryzias latipes
Striking variety with jet-black body and yellow lame. Named for yellow flashes of lightning on black body. High ornamental value due to vivid contrast.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
5〜30℃
Lifespan
2-3 years
Size
3-4cm
Diet
Medaka pellets, daphnia
About
Ikazuchi (Lightning) medaka is an improved variety with striking contrast of jet-black body scattered with vivid yellow lame, named for how the yellow flashes across the black body resemble lightning bolts. Based on Orochi-lineage jet-black body color combined with yellow lame, the strong black-yellow contrast sets it apart from other black lame medaka. Dark containers maximize the lame impact and body color contrast. Sunlight and LED lighting make the yellow lame shine most intensely. Selecting individuals with dense, vivid yellow lame maintains and improves quality. Inherits Orochi's lack of background adaptation, maintaining black in white containers. Peaceful and community-friendly.
Lifespan of the Ikazuchi Medaka
The Ikazuchi Medaka lives 2-3 years.
Size of the Ikazuchi Medaka
The Ikazuchi Medaka grows to 3-4cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Ikazuchi Medaka
The ideal temperature for the Ikazuchi Medaka is 20〜28℃.
Hardy in 5–30°C, neutral to slightly alkaline water.
Basic Info
Origin
Japan (selectively bred variety)
Lifespan
2-3 years
Size
3-4cm
Temperature
Care Specifications
- pH
- 7–8
- Hardness (GH)
- 9–19 dGH
- Water Temp.
- 20–28℃
PeacefulGroupBreeding: Easy
Sources: FishBase: Oryzias latipes / Seriously Fish: Oryzias latipes
Morphs (Varieties)
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.
PolygenicContinuous trait from multiple genes; intensified by selective breeding.
Yellow lame
Other
Black body
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.
References & Sources
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.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Oryzias latipes (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.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listed
Oryzias latipes. Not listed in the CITES Appendices (checked on Species+, 2026-09-18).
Sources: Species+ (CITES)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Ikazuchi Medaka Listings
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