Tricolor Lame
Tricolor Lame medaka combine a koi-like red, white, and black color pattern with shimmering glitter-like scales that catch the light as they swim. The interplay of colors and sparkle gives each fish a distinct, ever-changing look, and their calm, easygoing temperament makes them easy to keep alongside other medaka in both outdoor biotopes and indoor container setups. Because the balance of the three colors and the amount of lame shine varies from fish to fish, selectively choosing a favorite individual is part of the appeal. This is considered an intermediate-level variety, so some prior medaka-keeping experience helps in maintaining consistent coloration over generations.
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Each Medaka listing includes the following from Breeder. Full transparency on color variations (Yokihi/Miyuki/Lame) and lineage guaranteed.
- Variety Name
- Lineage
- Actual Photos
- Color Classification
- Body Type
- Scale Type
- Size
- Origin
- Age/Generation
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Tricolor Lame key facts
- Care level
- Intermediate
- Lifespan
- 2-3 years
- Size
- 3-4cm
- Temperature
- 5〜30℃
- Diet
- Prepared food, daphnia, brine shrimp
- Container
- Black containers enhance lame; white containers for color checking
- Selection
- Carefully select by tricolor ratio and lame density. Fixation rate is low
- Breeding
- Breed matching quality pairs. Pattern inheritance is unstable
- Notes
- Low fixation rate means mass breeding and strict selection are key to quality
About Tricolor Lame
A striking medaka variety combining a koi-like red, white, and black pattern with glittering lame scales, prized for its beauty and the depth of selective breeding it offers.
7 things to know before welcoming a Tricolor Lame
1A koi-like tricolor pattern
The defining feature is the red, white, and black pattern, which appears in a different balance on every individual. Even siblings from the same parents can look quite different, making it fun to find a favorite fish.
2Lame shine that changes with the light
The glitter-like lame scales shine differently depending on the angle of light. The fish can look quite different in sunlight versus indoor lighting, so viewing them from different angles and times of day is part of the enjoyment.
3A calm temperament suited to mixed tanks
Tricolor Lame medaka generally have a calm temperament and tend to get along reasonably well with other medaka varieties. That said, avoid pairing them with fish of very different sizes, and monitor how they interact.
4A small species, 3-4cm even as an adult
Adults stay compact at 3-4cm, making them manageable even in limited space. Still, avoid overcrowding relative to the water volume you're using.
5Watch for sudden changes in water quality or temperature
As with medaka in general, sudden shifts in water quality or temperature can stress the fish. Change water gradually in small amounts, and keep a closer eye on them during seasonal transitions.
6Experience helps maintain the coloration
This variety is considered intermediate in difficulty — keeping the tricolor balance and lame shine consistent across generations calls for some selective breeding know-how and attention to the rearing environment. It can be a rewarding challenge rather than a typical first medaka.
7A typical lifespan of 2-3 years
Tricolor Lame medaka typically live around 2-3 years. Since you'll be caring for them over that time, it's worth confirming beforehand that you have the space and routine to look after them consistently.
Frequently asked questions about Tricolor Lame
- Q.Can beginners keep Tricolor Lame medaka?
- A.This variety is considered intermediate in difficulty. If you're completely new to medaka keeping, gaining some basic experience first will help you care for them with more confidence.
- Q.Does the lame shine change as the fish grows?
- A.This varies by individual, but the appearance and intensity of the lame shine can look different depending on the fish's growth stage and lighting conditions. Some individuals show a more stable pattern as they approach their adult size of 3-4cm.
- Q.Can they be kept together with other medaka varieties?
- A.Because of their calm temperament, Tricolor Lame medaka tend to mix well with other varieties. That said, avoid combining them with fish of very different sizes, and keep an eye on the group for a while after introducing them.
- Q.Are there any CITES-related regulations?
- A.Tricolor Lame medaka are not subject to CITES.
- Q.How long can I expect to keep them?
- A.Their typical lifespan is around 2-3 years. Consistent water quality management and attention to seasonal temperature changes help support a healthy life span.
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Care difficulty, lifespan, size and diet — all basics covered.
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