Assorted Medaka

Introduction: The Assorted Medaka, also known as Japanese Rice Fish (Oryzias Latipes), is a vibrant and low-maintenance freshwater fish that’s perfect for beginner aquarists. These captivating nano fish come in a dazzling array of colors thanks to selective breeding, adding a burst of life to any aquarium.

Scientific Name: Oryzias Latipes

Water Quality: Medaka thrive in clean, well-maintained water. Regular partial water changes are essential.

• pH Level: 6.5 – 8.0 (adaptable to a wider range, but this is ideal)
• GH Level: 5 – 15 dGH
• KH Level: 3 – 8 dKH

Feeding: Medaka are omnivores and will readily accept a variety of flake foods, pellets, and live or frozen brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.

Tank Mates: Peaceful community fish that are similar in size are ideal tank mates. Avoid larger fish that might view them as prey. Good options include:

• Dwarf Shrimp (with caution, as Medaka may eat some shrimplets)
• Neon Tetras
• Microrasboras
• Corydoras Catfish

Substrates and Tank Decorations: Medaka are not picky about substrate. A dark-colored substrate can help their vibrant colors pop. Live plants are highly recommended as they provide hiding spots, grazing opportunities, and help maintain water quality.

Suitable Plants:

• Hornwort
• Water Sprite
• Duckweed
• Elodea

Sexing & Breeding: Males are typically more colorful and slender than females. Medaka readily breed in captivity, scattering their eggs throughout the tank. If you don’t want fry, you can remove plants regularly or keep other fish that will eat the eggs.

Maximum Size and Longevity: Medaka grow to a maximum size of about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) and can live up to 3 years with proper care.

Behavior: Medaka are peaceful, active fish that are fun to watch. They are surface dwellers and will dart around the top of the tank.

Things to Consider Before Buying:

• Medaka are social fish and need to be kept in groups of 6 or more.
• They are prolific breeders, so be prepared for fry if you don’t have a plan.
• They can be sensitive to poor water quality, so regular maintenance is crucial.

General Information: Medaka are native to East Asia but have been introduced to many parts of the world. They are considered an invasive species in some areas.

Fun Fact: Medaka were the first fish to be sent to space! They were carried on a Soviet satellite in 1970 and survived the weightlessness of space.