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Transparent scales allow red, white, and black colors to appear like brocade fabric. Unique beauty with pigments floating in translucent body. Best viewed from above.
Nishiki (brocade) medaka is an improved variety in which the clear-scale trait renders red, white, and black across the body like brocade weaving. Pigment surfaces over a translucent body for a distinctive beauty, and because color expression and placement differ greatly between individuals, each fish shows a one-of-a-kind pattern. Standard body type, roughly 3–4 cm. Individuals with clear color contrast have high display value, and the tricolor pattern shows especially well viewed from above in a container. Hardy across roughly 5–30°C in neutral to slightly alkaline water. As tricolor balance and coloration are heritable, selecting well-patterned parents maintains and improves beautiful strains. Color shows best in dark containers under bright light. Peaceful, community-compatible, and no harder to keep than other improved medaka.
Origin
Japan (selectively bred variety)
Lifespan
2-3 years
Size
3-4cm
Temperature
5〜30℃(適温20〜28℃)
Medaka pellets, daphnia
Shallow container for top-view appreciation is ideal
Select for transparent scale expression and color balance
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: (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.
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Clean water enhances body color. Regular water changes
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Nishiki (Brocade) Medaka is 5〜30℃(適温20〜28℃). Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Nishiki (Brocade) Medaka is 2-3 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Nishiki (Brocade) Medaka typically reaches 3-4cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Nishiki (Brocade) Medaka feeds on: Medaka pellets, daphnia. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Nishiki (Brocade) Medaka varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: July 8, 2026