Kouhaku (Red-and-White) Lame Medaka
Kouhaku Lame Medaka is an improved medaka variety that pairs a bold red-and-white pattern with fine, sparkling scales. The strain was established in 2016 by Seirakuan, selected from Sanshoku Lame Mikuni stock to remove individuals with black mottling, and it carries the clear, non-transparent white base inherited from the Aurora lineage. The contrast between the red and white patches, combined with the shifting glint of the lame scales as the fish swims, gives it lasting visual appeal. Considered a variety for intermediate keepers, since pattern and lame coverage vary noticeably between individuals, it rewards those already comfortable with selective culling and tank setup. Growing to roughly 4 cm at maturity, it adapts well to both indoor and outdoor keeping.
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- Variety Name
- Lineage
- Actual Photos
- Color Classification
- Body Type
- Scale Type
- Size
- Origin
- Age/Generation
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Kouhaku (Red-and-White) Lame Medaka key facts
- Care level
- Intermediate
- Lifespan
- 2-3 years
- Size
- Up to about 4cm SL
- Temperature
- 18〜28℃
- Diet
- Prepared medaka food, green water
- Lighting
- The red-and-white pattern and the glitter show best from above, so a dark container viewed from the top suits this variety. Outdoors, guard against summer overheating.
- Diet & Nutrition
- Commercial prepared medaka food is the staple, given in an amount finished within a few minutes. Leftovers decay and foul the water, so adjust the quantity. Green water rich in phytoplankton suits fry rearing.
- Water Temperature & Quality
- Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline water is considered ideal, and the water drifts toward acidic as keeping continues. Around one water change per week is the guideline, and because sudden shifts in temperature or pH cause stress, acclimatise new fish by floating the bag. FishBase records the wild water chemistry of this species as pH 7.0-8.0 and hardness 9-19 dH.
- Tank Mates & Compatibility
- A peaceful schooling fish, normally kept as a group of the same variety. One litre of water per fish is the guideline against overcrowding; overstocking causes poor growth, reduced breeding, oxygen shortage and water fouling.
- Breeding
- The rate at which clear red-and-white colouring is fixed is put at around 10 percent, so repeated selection is needed to stabilise the intended pattern. Outdoors the spawning season runs from about April to October, once water reaches 18C or above with 12-13 hours of daylight. For year-round indoor breeding, 25-28C water and over 13 hours of lighting are the guideline. Eggs hatch at a cumulative 250 degree-days, about 10 days at 25C.
- Health & Notes
- Glitter does not appear on transparent-scale fish. The white of non-transparent-scale fish reads more clearly than in transparent-scale varieties, but yellow pigment varies widely between individuals. Outdoors the fish become inactive and overwinter near the bottom as water cools, resuming activity in spring once daytime water exceeds 10C. A 0.3-0.5% salt bath is used for ailing fish, with water raised to no more than about 28C.
About Kouhaku (Red-and-White) Lame Medaka
Kouhaku Lame Medaka features a striking red-and-white pattern with sparkling lame scales. Bred by Seirakuan, known for its clear non-transparent white base. Grows to about 4cm; best suited to intermediate keepers.
7 things to know before welcoming a Kouhaku (Red-and-White) Lame Medaka
1Lame Coverage Varies by Individual
Even within the same strain, the amount of lame sparkle and the balance of red-and-white coloring differ from fish to fish. If you have a particular look in mind, it helps to view several individuals and choose the one that appeals to you most.
2Suited to Intermediate Keepers
Like other medaka, this variety is generally hardy, but it is considered better suited to intermediate keepers. Having some prior experience with water quality management and routine water changes will help you enjoy its coloring and pattern over the long term.
3Non-Transparent Scales Sharpen the Pattern
Kouhaku Lame inherits non-transparent scales from the Aurora lineage, giving it a clear, uncloudy white base. This clarity helps the red coloring and the sparkle of the lame scales stand out more distinctly.
4Suitable for Both Indoor and Outdoor Keeping
As with medaka in general, Kouhaku Lame can be kept either in an indoor aquarium or outdoors in a biotope or water lily pot. Natural sunlight can make the lame sparkle appear even more vivid.
5Grows to About 4cm at Maturity
Adults reach a standard body length of up to about 4 cm. Keep this in mind when planning tank space and balancing tankmates.
6A Strain That Rewards Selective Breeding
Given its origin as a strain selectively bred to exclude black mottling, part of the enjoyment of Kouhaku Lame comes from the selection process itself during breeding. Watching the patterns develop and change over time is part of the appeal.
7Prepare the Environment Before Bringing Them Home
As with other medaka, careful acclimation and preparation before introducing new fish are important. Bringing them into a tank or biotope with already-stable water conditions makes it easier for them to settle in.
Frequently asked questions about Kouhaku (Red-and-White) Lame Medaka
- Q.Is Kouhaku Lame Medaka subject to CITES?
- A.Kouhaku Lame Medaka is not subject to CITES. You can consider keeping it without concerns related to international trade regulations.
- Q.Can beginners keep Kouhaku Lame Medaka?
- A.Kouhaku Lame Medaka is considered a variety for intermediate keepers. Getting comfortable with basic medaka care, such as water changes and water quality management, first will help you better enjoy its coloring and pattern.
- Q.How large does it grow?
- A.Adults reach a standard body length of up to about 4 cm. Use this as a guide when planning tank space.
- Q.What is the origin of Kouhaku Lame Medaka?
- A.The strain was established in 2016 by Seirakuan, selected from Sanshoku Lame Mikuni stock to remove individuals with black mottling. It is known for its clear, non-transparent white base inherited from the Aurora lineage.
- Q.Can it be kept in an outdoor biotope?
- A.Kouhaku Lame can be kept not only in an indoor aquarium but also outdoors in a biotope or water lily pot. Under natural sunlight, the lame sparkle can appear even more vivid.
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