
AI-generated image
Oryzias latipes var.
Medaka with deep blue body color reminiscent of the deep sea. Deeper and more mysterious blue than Marine Blue. Looks most beautiful in dark containers.
Shinkai (Deep Sea) medaka is an improved variety with deep blue body color evoking the deep sea, as the name suggests. Its indigo-blue is deeper than typical Marine Blue, with the deep-sea mystique standing out most in black containers. Blue intensity varies with light angle, offering depth from every viewing direction. Among the deepest blue of all blue medaka varieties, it commands especially strong support from blue medaka collectors. Hardy in 5–30°C, neutral to slightly alkaline water. White containers best reveal the blue coloration most vividly. Selecting the most deeply blue individuals for breeding maintains deep-blue lineages. Compatible with green water environments. Peaceful and easy to breed with spawning mats.
Origin
Japan (selectively bred variety)
Lifespan
1-3 years
Size
3-4cm
Temperature
5〜30℃
Medaka pellets, daphnia
Black container makes deep blue stand out
Blue LED lighting enhances deep-sea atmosphere
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)
Breed deepest-blue individuals to improve fixation
Color fades easily with poor water quality
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Shinkai Medaka is 5〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Shinkai Medaka is 1-3 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Shinkai Medaka typically reaches 3-4cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Shinkai Medaka feeds on: Medaka pellets, daphnia. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Shinkai Medaka varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: July 8, 2026