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Oryzias latipes var.
Improved medaka characterized by vivid vermilion body color. Beautiful deep vermilion color like shusha (vermilion mineral pigment containing mercury). Outstanding coloration among red medaka varieties.
Shusha medaka is an improved variety characterized by vivid vermilion body color. 'Shusha' refers to cinnabar, a natural vermilion pigment derived from mercury sulfide, and the variety bears a beautifully deep, settled vermilion true to its name. Similar in body color to Youkihi, but Shusha tends toward stronger orange-to-vermilion tones rather than red. White containers best showcase the vermilion vividness, with top-view observation highlighting the color contrast. Regular feeding of carotenoid-rich color-enhancing food maintains and strengthens coloration. Outdoor sunlight deepens body color further. Hardy in 5–30°C, neutral to slightly alkaline water. Easy to breed, with selective pairing of the most vividly colored individuals maintaining vermilion lineages. Peaceful and community-friendly.
Origin
Japan (selectively bred variety)
Lifespan
1-3 years
Size
3-4cm
Temperature
5〜30℃
Medaka pellets, daphnia
White container brings out vividness of vermilion color
Sunlight makes coloration more vivid
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.
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5-30°C (optimal 20-28°C)
Carotenoid-containing feed maintains coloration
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Shusha Medaka is 5〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Shusha Medaka is 1-3 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Shusha Medaka typically reaches 3-4cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Shusha Medaka feeds on: Medaka pellets, daphnia. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Shusha Medaka varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: July 8, 2026