Kihire Orochi Medaka – 黄鰭オロチ: A Bold Contrast of Darkness and Gold

Kihire Orochi Medaka (黄鰭オロチ) is a visually striking ornamental medaka that combines a deep, jet-black body with vivid yellow fins. The name translates to “Yellow-Fin Orochi,” and the variety stands out for its clean yet powerful contrast. Derived from the classic Orochi line, this medaka amplifies the visual drama by introducing bright gold into the silhouette of shadow.

🧬 Origin & Lineage

• Base Line: Orochi Medaka (オロチメダカ)
• Fin Variant: Standard fin (non-elongated)
• Special Trait: Vivid yellow/gold fin color against a black body

This strain is not a simple color mutation, but rather the result of focused linebreeding to preserve both the Orochi’s pure black pigmentation and introduce bold yellow expression limited to the fins. It is a testament to precision in selective breeding.

🎨 Key Features

• Body Color: Deep, matte jet black with excellent colorfastness
• Fin Color: Bright yellow or golden tone — strongest on the caudal and dorsal fins
• Fin Shape: Standard fin type, maintaining a compact and balanced form
• Top-View Appeal: Especially vivid when housed in white tubs or shallow bowls

🌓 Comparison with Satan Medaka

While both Kihire Orochi and Satan Medaka are rooted in black-bodied strains, they differ significantly in purpose and presentation:

• Satan Medaka: A long-fin variety developed from Orochi × Real Long Fin crosses, featuring flowing fins and darker fin tones
• Kihire Orochi: A standard fin strain with a strong color contrast between black and gold

In short:
🖤 Satan = Long fins, shadowy elegance
🖤💛 Kihire Orochi = Bold yellow contrast with clean structure

🧬 Breeding Insights

Breeding Kihire Orochi Medaka requires attention to both body color and fin tone. Not all offspring will inherit the perfect yellow intensity, and some may show partial or translucent fins. Breeders must select individuals with the strongest contrast and clearest pigmentation to refine the line further.

🖍️ Conclusion

Kihire Orochi Medaka (黄鰭オロチ) offers a dramatic yet clean look for medaka enthusiasts. With its bold contrast of darkness and gold, it delivers visual clarity without the complexities of long-fin care. This is a must-have strain for those who value balance, power, and vivid highlights in their collection.

※ Based on material from Medaka no Yakata Blog and Medaka Zukan.
※ Photos provided by SNR KOREA. Unauthorized use or redistribution is prohibited.