Oryzias latipes
A medaka from a transparent-scaled miyuki line whose inner body looks black (tainai-kuro), with glossy black overlaid by side shine. JMA certified variety No. 33.
Seiryu Kiryu is the nickname of a blue transparent-scaled medaka with the internal-black (tainai-kuro) supplement; the Kairyo Medaka Web Zukan credits it to Fumio Takakusagi, 2018, and it is registered as JMA certified variety No. 33. It is also called Kuro Hyakushiki or Saba. Arising from a transparent-scaled miyuki line, it has black pigment inside the body rather than on the surface as in black-bodied fish, giving a glossy black look. At first it was enjoyed for its internal black in white tanks, but with line-breeding side shine appeared, and the contrast of black and side shine became its appeal; hikari-bodied fish may even show shine all round the trunk. It lacks background adaptation, so it can be viewed in glass tanks. It is a different variety from the existing Hyakushiki, so take care not to confuse the names.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Seiryu Kiryu Medaka lives 2-3 years.
The Seiryu Kiryu Medaka grows to About 3-4 cm (wild medaka reach up to 4 cm SL: FishBase).
Origin
Japan (ornamental cultivar)
Lifespan
2-3 years
Size
About 3-4 cm (wild medaka reach up to 4 cm SL: FishBase)
Temperature
5〜30℃
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
Omnivore (floating prepared foods, live foods such as daphnia)
White containers hide the side shine and black ones hide the internal black; a green, planted background shows both. Black containers are recommended to develop the black pigment.
Side shine has widened over generations; choose breeders strong in both internal black and side shine.
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.
The average lifespan of Seiryu Kiryu Medaka is 2-3 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Seiryu Kiryu 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.
Seiryu Kiryu Medaka feeds on: Omnivore (floating prepared foods, live foods such as daphnia). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Seiryu Kiryu Medaka varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026