Otohime
Otohime is an improved medaka variety with a striking scarlet-red body overlaid with iridescent "extra body glow." The name comes from Otohime, the legendary princess of the undersea Dragon Palace, evoking the elegant shimmer this variety shows when viewed from above, where the scarlet base color and the glow combine. Adults typically reach about 3 to 4 cm, a compact size typical of medaka, with a lifespan of roughly 2 to 3 years. This variety is considered better suited to keepers with some prior experience, since maintaining vivid color and consistent glow benefits from a bit of hobbyist know-how. The intensity of the glow varies between individuals, making top-down observation a rewarding way to discover each fish's own character.
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- Variety Name
- Lineage
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- Body Type
- Scale Type
- Size
- Origin
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Otohime key facts
- Care level
- Intermediate
- Lifespan
- 2-3 years
- Size
- 3-4cm
- Temperature
- 5〜30℃
- Diet
- Medaka pellets, daphnia
- Container
- Dark top-viewing container highlights red and external light
- Sunlight
- Outdoor keeping deepens color and enhances external light
- Temperature
- 5-30°C (optimal 20-28°C)
- Breeding
- Select by external light coverage — wider is higher quality
- Coloring
- Red color-enhancing feed maintains coloration
About Otohime
Otohime is an improved medaka variety with a scarlet-red body and iridescent glow, prized for its elegant shimmer viewed from above. Best suited to keepers with some experience.
7 things to know before welcoming a Otohime
1Glow Shows Best From Above
Otohime's signature glow is best appreciated from directly above, a viewing style known as "top view." A shallow tub or water-lily bowl suited to overhead viewing works better than a tank designed for side viewing. Since the glow's coverage and intensity vary between individuals, comparing several fish side by side adds to the enjoyment.
2Color Care for Experienced Keepers
The vividness of the scarlet color and the clarity of the glow can shift with water quality, sunlight exposure, and diet. This variety is generally considered better suited to somewhat experienced keepers, so first-time medaka owners may find it easier to get comfortable with basic care before taking on the nuances of color maintenance.
3A Compact 3–4 cm Adult Size
Adults stay compact at around 3 to 4 cm, making this variety approachable even without a large tank. That said, their small size also means they can be more sensitive to sudden shifts in water temperature or quality, so gradual changes are best.
4A Calm, Sociable Temperament
Like medaka in general, Otohime is a calm, shoaling fish that is easy to watch swimming together in a group. It tends to get along well when kept alongside other peaceful, small-bodied medaka varieties.
5Planning for a 2–3 Year Lifespan
With a typical lifespan of around 2 to 3 years, staying attentive to seasonal water temperature swings and observing your fish daily go a long way toward a long, healthy life together. Pay particular attention to condition changes during the cold winter months and the hot summer months.
6Preparing for Acclimation
When bringing a new fish home, gradual acclimation is essential to avoid shocking it with sudden changes in temperature or water chemistry. Preparing and stabilizing the receiving container's water in advance helps reduce the stress of the transition.
7Not Subject to CITES
Otohime is not subject to CITES. This is one point of reassurance for those considering keeping this variety.
Frequently asked questions about Otohime
- Q.Can beginners keep Otohime medaka?
- A.This variety is generally considered better suited to keepers with some experience. If you are entirely new to medaka keeping, getting comfortable with the basics first will make it easier to handle the nuances of its color and glow.
- Q.When does the extra body glow become visible?
- A.The onset and coverage of the glow vary from individual to individual. Observing from above lets you clearly appreciate how the glow interacts with the scarlet base color on each fish.
- Q.Can Otohime be kept with other medaka varieties?
- A.Otohime has a calm temperament and generally mixes well with other peaceful, small medaka varieties. Just be mindful of tank size and stocking balance.
- Q.Can Otohime be kept outdoors in a water-lily bowl?
- A.Since the glow shows best from above, an outdoor water-lily bowl or shallow tub suited to top-down viewing tends to be a good match. Keep an eye on seasonal water temperature changes as you manage the setup.
- Q.Are any legal permits required to keep Otohime?
- A.Otohime is not subject to CITES, so this is not a concern for this variety.
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Care difficulty, lifespan, size and diet — all basics covered.
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