Red Cliff Dark Type Medaka – レッドクリフ・ダークタイプメダカ

A smoky jewel with flowing fins and mysterious charm

The Red Cliff Dark Type Medaka (レッドクリフ・ダークタイプメダカ) is a captivating ornamental fish that embodies a harmonious blend of deep, smoky hues and elegant fin structures. Developed in 2022 by breeder Masaharu Tarumi (垂水政治), this variety has garnered significant attention among medaka enthusiasts for its unique characteristics and aesthetic appeal.​

Physical Characteristics

• Body Coloration: Exhibits a rich amber hue with black undertones, resulting in a dark, smoky appearance that exudes depth and mystery.​
• Fin Structure: Features a combination of elongated fins (Longfin), broadened fin bases (Widefin), and fringed fin edges (Fusahire), creating a graceful and flowing silhouette.​
• External Shine (Taigaikō): Displays a subtle iridescent sheen along the dorsal region, adding a touch of brilliance to the dark body.​

Origin and Development

• Year of Development: 2022​
• Breeder: Masaharu Tarumi (垂水政治)​

The Red Cliff Dark Type Medaka was meticulously developed by Masaharu Tarumi in 2022. The breeding process focused on achieving the distinctive amber-black coloration and the elegant fin structures that define this variety. An interesting aspect of this lineage is the emergence of the Red Cliff Kōhaku Type, a variant displaying red and white coloration with the Kissing Widefin trait, which occasionally appears among offspring of the Dark Type, indicating their close genetic relationship.​

Breeding and Care Considerations

• Fixation Rate: Achieving the ideal balance of dark coloration and fin characteristics requires meticulous selective breeding.​
• Environmental Factors: Maintaining stable water conditions and providing a well-balanced diet are crucial to preserving the fish’s health and enhancing its vibrant features.​
• Observation: Regular monitoring is recommended to ensure the desired traits are consistently expressed in successive generations.​

Conclusion

The Red Cliff Dark Type Medaka stands as a testament to the artistry of selective breeding, combining deep, enigmatic coloration with elegant fin structures. Its captivating appearance and unique traits make it a prized choice for enthusiasts seeking to enrich their collections with a medaka that embodies both mystery and grace.​

Sources / 出典:

• めだかの館ブログ – レッドクリフダークタイプとは
• 改良メダカWEB図鑑 – レッドクリフダークタイプ
• Photo courtesy of SNR Korea