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Maou Medaka
BeginnerOryzias latipes var.
Representative black-body improved medaka. Known for deep black body color with overwhelming presence from its jet-black Orochi lineage. Relatively easy to keep even for beginners.
Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
5〜30℃
Lifespan
2-3 years
Size
3-4cm
Diet
Medaka pellets, daphnia
About
Maou (Demon King) medaka is widely recognized as the representative black-body improved medaka variety. Based on Orochi-lineage jet-black body color, its deep black commands an overwhelming presence befitting the 'Demon King' name. Inheriting Orochi's lack of background adaptation, it maintains jet-black coloration even in white containers, displaying constant presence regardless of container type. Individuals with deep black extending to the fins are especially prized. Easy to breed with spawning mats. Selective breeding of the deepest black individuals maintains jet-black lineages. Peaceful and community-friendly.
Lifespan of the Maou Medaka
The Maou Medaka lives 2-3 years.
Size of the Maou Medaka
The Maou Medaka grows to 3-4cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Maou Medaka
The ideal temperature for the Maou Medaka is 20〜28℃.
Extremely hardy in 5–30°C, neutral to slightly alkaline water — easy even for beginners, making it an ideal entry point for black medaka.
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.
Other
Black body (orochi line)
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 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 · Japan Medaka Association — Variety Classification Manual (JA)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
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