Long Fin Type:

Normal Type:

Spade Medaka – スペードメダカ

A dramatic silhouette like a trump card, born for elegance and power

Physical Characteristics
The Spade Medaka is a uniquely styled improved medaka that draws inspiration from the shape of a spade (♠) in playing cards. This elegant yet powerful variety is known for its:

• Silver-black lamé body that sparkles intensely under light
• Hikari (光り) body type, reflecting external light along the dorsal surface
• Two fin types:
  • Longfin type, with gracefully extended fins that move in a slow, flowing motion
  • Normal type, featuring shorter, more compact fins with a classic medaka profile
• These two genetic traits coexist within the same breeding line, meaning normal type parents may produce longfin type offspring, and longfin parents may produce normal type offspring
• A distinct sword-like caudal fin, which resembles the spade symbol from playing cards and gives the fish its name

This medaka’s bold body shape and shimmering lamé expression make it especially striking in both side-view aquariums and top-view ponds, where its movement and shape can be fully appreciated.

Origin and Development

• Release Date: March 2024
• Original Breeder: Muchū Medaka (夢中めだか), Japan
• Parent Lineage:
  • Dragon’s Mane (龍ノ鬣／りゅうのたてがみ)
  • Midnight Frill Lamé (ミッドナイトフリルラメタイプ)

The Spade Medaka gained attention in early 2024 when a specimen bred by Muchū Medaka was sold on Yahoo Japan Auctions for an astonishing 2.3 million yen (approx. $15,000 USD), marking it as one of the most high-profile improved medaka in recent years.

Conclusion
The Spade Medaka is a stunning example of modern medaka innovation—uniting striking color, refined shape, and graceful swimming into a single elegant form. Whether you prefer the delicate sweep of longfin types or the balanced silhouette of normal types, the Spade Medaka offers a unique presence that is both artistic and collectible.

Sources / 出典:

• となりのカインズさん – スペードメダカ
• 夢中めだかブログ – スペードメダカ
• Photos provided by SNR Korea