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Orange-red body with glitter and elongated swallow-type fins. Graceful swimming reminiscent of a phoenix. Extremely high ornamental value.
Zuihou medaka is an improved variety combining a vermilion-red body bearing lame with the long-finned swallow body type. The showy elements of vermilion, lame, and long fins layer together, and its graceful swimming is said to evoke the legendary phoenix (houou), giving rise to the name; it is a highly prized variety with exceptional display value. Roughly 3–4 cm. Carrying multiple traits, fixing and maintaining them benefits from selective-breeding experience, and because the long fins are easily damaged and swimming is graceful but slow, care for tankmates and environment is needed, making it somewhat more demanding. Hardy across roughly 10–30°C (optimal 20–28°C) in neutral to slightly alkaline water. The vermilion shows best with color-enhancing food and dark containers under sunlight, and the lame in dark containers under bright light. Selecting parents with good fins, lame, and red maintains beautiful strains.
Origin
Japan (selectively bred variety)
Lifespan
1-2 years
Size
3-4cm
Temperature
10〜30℃(適温20〜28℃)
Medaka pellets, daphnia
Indoor tank side-view recommended. Highlights fin beauty
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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Cannot mix with fin nippers. Same variety only
Swallow trait inherits ~50%. Selection required
Long fins snag on obstacles. Keep layout simple
Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.
The ideal temperature for Zuihou Medaka is 10〜30℃(適温20〜28℃). Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Zuihou Medaka is 1-2 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Zuihou Medaka typically reaches 3-4cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Zuihou Medaka feeds on: Medaka pellets, daphnia. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Zuihou Medaka varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: July 8, 2026