Our Guide To Keeping Japanese Rice Fish (Medaka)

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Oryzias latipes
   • Common name: Japanese Rice Fish, Killifish, Medaka
   • Family: Adrianichthyidae
   • Origin: East Asia, including Japan, Korea, and China
   • Adult length: 3 cm
   • Lifespan: 2 to 3 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Japanese Rice Fish thrive in a well-planted tank with gentle water flow. A tank size of 20L is suitable for a small group.
   • Provide fine-leaved plants like Java Moss and floating plants to create shaded areas and replicate their natural habitat.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Maintain a slightly alkaline to neutral pH range of 7.0 to 7.5 for Japanese Rice Fish.
   • Keep the water temperature between 22 to 28°C (72 to 82°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • A gentle water flow is suitable for these fish, so choose a filter with adjustable flow settings.

5. Diet:

   • Japanese Rice Fish are omnivores and accept a variety of foods. Provide them with high-quality micro-pellets, flakes, and small live or frozen foods.
   • Include brine shrimp, daphnia, and micro worms in their diet to enhance coloration and overall health.

6. Tank mates:

   • Japanese Rice Fish are peaceful and can be kept with other small, non-aggressive community fish. Avoid keeping them with fin-nipping species.
   • Compatible tank mates include small tetras, rasboras, and other peaceful nano fish.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Japanese Rice Fish are social and should be kept in groups of at least six individuals to encourage natural behaviors.
   • They coexist well with peaceful tank mates and are suitable for community aquariums.