Ikazuchi

Ikazuchi key facts

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

2-3 years

Size

3-4cm

Temperature

5〜30℃

Diet

Medaka pellets, daphnia

Container

Black container makes yellow lame contrast stand out

Sunlight

Sunlight makes yellow lame flash like lightning

Temperature

5-30°C (optimal 20-28°C)

Breeding

Select and breed individuals with highest yellow lame density

Notes

Fixation rate is somewhat low — continue patient selection

About Ikazuchi

Discover Ikazuchi medaka, with its striking jet-black body and yellow glitter markings. An intermediate-level variety reaching 3–4cm and living 2–3 years.

7 things to know before welcoming a Ikazuchi

1. 1Coloring is everything

   Ikazuchi's appeal lies in the striking contrast between its jet-black body and yellow glitter markings. Since the amount and placement of glitter varies between individuals, it's worth checking the pattern carefully before choosing a fish. Coloring can also continue to change as the fish matures.

2. 2Best suited for intermediate keepers

   Ikazuchi is generally recommended for intermediate keepers. Having some prior experience with water quality management and general medaka care makes it easier to maintain good coloration and condition. If you're new to keeping medaka, building experience with a basic variety first is one option.

3. 3A compact size

   Reaching only about 3–4cm as an adult, Ikazuchi is easy to keep even in small water lily pots or containers. That said, overcrowding can lead to water quality problems, so choose a container size appropriate for the number of fish.

4. 4A calm temperament

   Ikazuchi doesn't show any particular aggression compared to other medaka and generally mixes well with other varieties. That said, many keepers choose to house it separately from other varieties to keep its distinctive coloring clear and unmixed.

5. 5Plan for its 2–3 year lifespan

   With a lifespan of roughly 2–3 years, Ikazuchi requires consistent year-round care, including attention to seasonal water temperature changes. Keep in mind that this is a fish you'll be caring for over the medium-to-long term.

6. 6Prepare the environment beforehand

   It's important to have your tank or container's water stabilized before bringing Ikazuchi home, and to acclimate new fish gradually since sudden changes in water quality can be stressful. Choosing a substrate or background color that makes the black body stand out can also enhance the viewing experience.

7. 7Regarding CITES

   Ikazuchi is not subject to CITES. There's no need to worry about special procedures related to this when bringing one home.

Frequently asked questions about Ikazuchi

Q.Can beginners keep Ikazuchi?

A.It's generally considered a variety for intermediate keepers, but it can be kept as long as you can manage basic water quality. Having some prior experience with medaka helps in maintaining stable coloration and condition.

Q.Where does the name Ikazuchi come from?

A.The name (Japanese for "thunder") comes from the way the yellow glitter streaks across its jet-black body, resembling a flash of lightning. The vivid black-and-yellow contrast is its defining feature.

Q.Is it safe to keep Ikazuchi with other medaka?

A.Ikazuchi isn't particularly aggressive, so mixing it with other medaka is possible. That said, many keepers house it separately to keep its distinctive pattern clear.

Q.How big does Ikazuchi grow?

A.It stays compact even as an adult, reaching about 3–4cm. This makes it manageable even in small containers.

Q.How long does Ikazuchi live?

A.Its typical lifespan is around 2–3 years. Consistent care that accounts for seasonal water temperature changes is key to keeping it healthy over that time.

Useful tools for Ikazuchi care

Learn more about Ikazuchi in the encyclopedia

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