Oryzias latipes
An orange-bodied medaka with strong glitter seen from above, named for the way the glitter recalls the segments of a mandarin. Created in 2020 by Kazuaki Senoo of Hoshida Medaka, Okayama.
Mikan is the trade name of the orange lamé medaka; the Kairyo Medaka Web Zukan credits it to Kazuaki Senoo, 2020. It was bred at Hoshida Medaka in Okayama by crossing orange-bodied fish from Ake-no-Myojo (three-colour lamé long-fin) with Ouka. The orange body with top-view glitter reminded the breeder of mandarin segments. Key features are an orange body less red than orange-red types and strong glitter from above inherited from Ouka. Among lamé medaka it stands out as a solid orange line with strong glitter; spotted fish may appear.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Mikan Medaka grows to About 3-4 cm (wild medaka reach up to 4 cm SL: FishBase).
Origin
Japan (ornamental cultivar)
Lifespan
Few reliable data
Size
About 3-4 cm (wild medaka reach up to 4 cm SL: FishBase)
Temperature
5〜30℃
Omnivore (floating prepared foods, live foods such as daphnia)
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: Oryzias latipes (Temminck & Schlegel, 1846)
Synonyms: Aplocheilus latipes (Temminck & Schlegel, 1846), Poecilia latipes Temminck & Schlegel, 1846
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF · 日本メダカ協会 品種分類マニュアル
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Ornamental medaka are cultivars of Oryzias latipes. Not listed in the CITES Appendices (checked on Species+) and not regulated under Japan's Invasive Alien Species Act. Japan's wild medaka (Oryzias latipes and O. sakaizumii) are listed as Vulnerable on the Ministry of the Environment Red List and differ genetically by region. Releasing ornamental medaka into rivers, ponds or rice paddies causes genetic pollution through hybridisation with wild fish, so never release them.
Sources: Species+ (CITES) / Ministry of the Environment: list of invasive alien species / Wikipedia (Japanese): Medaka – conservation and genetic pollution
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Glitter is strongest from above, so it suits outdoor containers viewed from above.
Choose solid-orange fish with plenty of glitter as breeders; spotted fish may appear.
Peaceful and fine with other medaka of similar size. To keep the variety's traits, do not let it breed with other varieties in the same container.
Give floating food that is eaten within 3-5 minutes: at least twice a day in summer, once a day in spring and autumn, and little or none outdoors in winter.
Never release ornamental medaka into rivers, ponds or paddies; hybridisation causes genetic pollution of wild medaka.
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
Mikan Medaka typically reaches About 3-4 cm (wild medaka reach up to 4 cm SL: FishBase) as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Mikan Medaka feeds on: Omnivore (floating prepared foods, live foods such as daphnia). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Mikan Medaka varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026