How can the male and female Kihana-dai be distinguished?

Kihana-dai exhibit sexual dimorphism, meaning males and females differ in color and form. The male individual on display is particularly characterized by its beautifully lustrous scales.

Where does the Kihana-dai inhabit?

It is a rare species inhabiting deep waters from Kanagawa Prefecture to the Ryukyu Islands, particularly around 200 meters deep near the coast of Okinawa Island.

How long will the Kihana-dai be on display?

The exhibition period may vary depending on the condition of the organism. Please check with the aquarium for the latest information.

Are there other fish that undergo sex change?

Yes, clownfish are well-known examples. Kihana-dai is also suggested to undergo protogynous sex change, and research is ongoing.

What is the theme of the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium's exhibits?

With the theme 'Encountering the Okinawan Sea,' the aquarium recreates the naturally rich Okinawan sea, creating opportunities to encounter diverse aquatic life.

AI News NQ Analysis

[Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium] The "Mysterious 2 Types" Discovered in the Deep Sea Were Actually Male and Female "Kihana-dai" – Male Individuals with Beautifully Lustrous Scales Now on Display!

Key facts

[Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium] The "Mysterious 2 Types" Discovered in the Deep Sea Were Actually Male and Female "Kihana-dai" – Male Individuals with Beautifully Lustrous Scales Now on Display!
The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is now exhibiting a male individual of the rare Anthiinae family fish, Kihana-dai, which inhabits the deep sea. Previously, two types of fish with slight differences in color and form were collected and displayed, but it was unclear whether they were different species or variations within the same species. A research team led by Kindai University has reported the existence of sexual dimorphism in Kihana-dai, clarifying that these "mysterious 2 types" correspond to the male and female of the same species. Furthermore, it is suggested that the species may undergo protogynous sex change, transforming from female to male as they mature, with future research expected to confirm this process.
Source: PR TIMES
Date: Thu Jun 11 2026 22:00:01 GMT+0900 (Japan Standard Time)

Direct answer

The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is now exhibiting a male individual of the rare Anthiinae family fish, Kihana-dai, which inhabits the deep sea. Previously, two types of fish with slight differences in color and form were collected and displayed, but it was unclear whether they were different species or variations within the same species. A research team led by Kindai University has reported the existence of sexual dimorphism in Kihana-dai, clarifying that these "mysterious 2 types" correspond to the male and female of the same species. Furthermore, it is suggested that the species may undergo protogynous sex change, transforming from female to male as they mature, with future research expected to confirm this process.

Citation: [Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium] The "Mysterious 2 Types" Discovered in the Deep Sea Were Actually Male and Female "Kihana-dai" – Male Individuals with Beautifully Lustrous Scales Now on Display! (Thu Jun 11 2026 22:00:01 GMT+0900 (Japan Standard Time)), PR TIMES
Source: PR TIMES
Date: Thu Jun 11 2026 22:00:01 GMT+0900 (Japan Standard Time)

AI Summary (NQ-processed)

The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is now exhibiting a male individual of the rare Anthiinae family fish, Kihana-dai, which inhabits the deep sea. Previously, two types of fish with slight differences in color and form were collected and displayed, but it was unclear whether they were different species or variations within the same species. A research team led by Kindai University has reported the existence of sexual dimorphism in Kihana-dai, clarifying that these "mysterious 2 types" correspond to the male and female of the same species. Furthermore, it is suggested that the species may undergo protogynous sex change, transforming from female to male as they mature, with future research expected to confirm this process.

AI Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can the male and female Kihana-dai be distinguished?: A: Kihana-dai exhibit sexual dimorphism, meaning males and females differ in color and form. The male individual on display is particularly characterized by its beautifully lustrous scales.
Q: Where does the Kihana-dai inhabit?: A: It is a rare species inhabiting deep waters from Kanagawa Prefecture to the Ryukyu Islands, particularly around 200 meters deep near the coast of Okinawa Island.
Q: How long will the Kihana-dai be on display?: A: The exhibition period may vary depending on the condition of the organism. Please check with the aquarium for the latest information.
Q: Are there other fish that undergo sex change?: A: Yes, clownfish are well-known examples. Kihana-dai is also suggested to undergo protogynous sex change, and research is ongoing.
Q: What is the theme of the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium's exhibits?: A: With the theme 'Encountering the Okinawan Sea,' the aquarium recreates the naturally rich Okinawan sea, creating opportunities to encounter diverse aquatic life.