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Oryzias latipes var.
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.
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. Hardy in 5–30°C, neutral to slightly alkaline water. 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.
Origin
Japan (selectively bred variety)
Lifespan
1-3 years
Size
3-4cm
Temperature
5〜30℃
Medaka pellets, daphnia
Black container makes yellow lame contrast stand out
Sunlight makes yellow lame flash like lightning
Sources: FishBase: Oryzias latipes / Seriously Fish: Oryzias latipes
改良メダカは体型×体色×柄×光(体内/体外)×鱗(透明鱗)×ラメ×ヒレ等のトレイト合成。掲載は当該品種を構成する確証トレイトのみで遺伝形式は確証のみ付与(不確実は省略)。遺伝形式は交配の参考。
Sources: JMA日本メダカ協会 改良メダカ品種分類マニュアル / 改良メダカWEB図鑑(medakazukan)
A curated selection of notable morphs. Inheritance modes are a breeding-planning guide; actual appearance varies with combos.
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Oryzias latipes var. (Temminck & Schlegel, 1846)
Synonyms: Aplocheilus latipes (Temminck & Schlegel, 1846), Poecilia latipes Temminck & Schlegel, 1846, Oryzias latipes latipes (Temminck & Schlegel, 1846)
Authority databases: FishBase · GBIF · 日本メダカ協会 品種分類マニュアル
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Find listings for this species
5-30°C (optimal 20-28°C)
Select and breed individuals with highest yellow lame density
Fixation rate is somewhat low — continue patient selection
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Ikazuchi Medaka is 5〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Ikazuchi Medaka is 1-3 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Ikazuchi Medaka typically reaches 3-4cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Ikazuchi Medaka feeds on: Medaka pellets, daphnia. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Ikazuchi Medaka varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: July 8, 2026