Unshu Tricolor Medaka
Unshu Tricolor Medaka is a relatively new variety, bred in 2017 by Haruo Nojiri, featuring a non-transparent-scale pattern with mottled patches of white and orange-red. Unlike transparent-scale tricolor varieties, its white areas stay opaque rather than becoming see-through, giving it a bolder, more vivid contrast between white and orange-red. Its Japanese name translates to "white and orange-red mottled medaka," also known by the alternate name "non-transparent-scale tricolor." Pattern variation between individuals adds to the appeal of comparing each fish's unique coloring. That said, this variety is considered suited to experienced keepers rather than beginners.
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- Body Type
- Scale Type
- Size
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Unshu Tricolor Medaka key facts
- Care level
- Advanced
- Lifespan
- 2-3 years
- Size
- Up to about 4cm SL
- Temperature
- 18〜28℃
- Diet
- Prepared medaka food, green water
- Lighting
- The tricolour pattern reads best from the dorsal side, so viewing and selection are done from above. The Medaka Web Encyclopedia recommends outdoor keeping and suggests shading half the container in summer.
- 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
- 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
- Selecting fish with a good balance of white, vermilion and black mottling calls for numbers. The white reads differently from that of transparent-scaled tricolours, so check the cheeks for red to confirm the scale type.
About Unshu Tricolor Medaka
Unshu Tricolor Medaka features striking non-transparent white and orange-red patterns. Bred in 2017, this guide covers its traits and care points for experienced keepers.
7 things to know before welcoming a Unshu Tricolor Medaka
1Suited to Experienced Keepers
Unshu Tricolor Medaka is considered suited to experienced keepers. It's best to have a solid grasp of the basics of medaka care—water quality management, temperature control, and daily observation—before bringing one home.
2Coloring Unique to Non-Transparent Scales
While transparent-scale tricolor medaka show translucent white areas, the non-transparent scales of Unshu Tricolor keep the white fully opaque, producing a clear, bold contrast against the orange-red.
3Pattern Varies Between Individuals
The mottled white and orange-red pattern differs from fish to fish. Even within the same variety, the spread and balance of the colors vary, making it enjoyable to keep several and compare their individual patterns.
4Adult Size Up to About 4cm
Adults grow to a standard body length of up to about 4cm. Keep this size in mind when planning tank space, stocking density, or tankmate compatibility.
5Prioritize Stable Water Quality
As with medaka in general, sudden changes in water quality or temperature can cause stress. Regular water changes and careful acclimation when introducing new water help maintain their condition.
6Prepare Your Setup Before Bringing One Home
It's smoother to set up your tank or biotope—including plants and filtration—before bringing the fish home. Since this is a variety for experienced keepers, avoid scrambling to prepare the environment after the fact.
7Watch Daily for Changes in Condition
Because this variety is prized for its coloring, daily observation makes it easier to notice changes in body color or swimming behavior. If something looks off, check water conditions promptly.
Frequently asked questions about Unshu Tricolor Medaka
- Q.Can beginners keep Unshu Tricolor Medaka?
- A.Unshu Tricolor Medaka is considered a variety suited to experienced keepers. If you're new to medaka care, it's best to build experience with a more basic variety first before taking this one on.
- Q.How is it different from transparent-scale tricolor medaka?
- A.Transparent-scale tricolor medaka show see-through white areas, while Unshu Tricolor's non-transparent scales keep the white fully opaque. This makes the contrast between the white and orange-red stand out more.
- Q.How large does Unshu Tricolor Medaka grow?
- A.Adults grow to a standard body length of up to about 4cm. Use this as a guide when planning tank size or choosing tankmates.
- Q.Is Unshu Tricolor Medaka subject to CITES?
- A.Unshu Tricolor Medaka is not subject to CITES. There are no regulatory restrictions associated with it.
- Q.What is the origin of the name "Unshu Tricolor"?
- A.Its formal name translates to "white and orange-red mottled medaka," bred in 2017 by Haruo Nojiri. It is also known by the alternate name "non-transparent-scale tricolor."
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