Overview

An orange ornamental form of Japanese ricefish or medaka. Adults reach roughly 3–4cm. It is a temperate fish rather than a species needing permanently warm tropical water.

Scientific name: Oryzias latipes

Behaviour

Keep eight or more. They use the upper water and feel more secure with companions and vegetation.

Tank Size

Our recommended minimum is 60 litres with a 60 × 30cm base for a group. Fit a lid and provide fine-leaved plants plus open surface swimming space.

These are adult housing recommendations; choose more space when adding tank mates. Allow for space occupied by substrate and décor when comparing aquarium capacities.

Compatibility

Choose small peaceful temperate companions with matching water requirements. Avoid large goldfish or other predators; do not mix with very warm-water species.

Diet

Use tiny flakes or micro-pellets, daphnia and brine shrimp. Feed at the surface in small portions and ensure food fits their small mouths.

Care

• Temperature: 16–22°C
• pH: 6.5–8.0
• General hardness: 5–20 dGH

An indoor unheated aquarium can work if temperatures stay within range; monitor summer overheating. Use gentle to moderate filtration and an intake guard. Keep these fish in the aquarium rather than releasing them outdoors.

Add only to a fully cycled aquarium. Keep ammonia and nitrite at 0mg/l. Start with a 25–30% weekly water change using dechlorinated, temperature-matched water and adjust to test results and stocking. Rinse biological filter media in removed aquarium water rather than under the tap.

Live Animals Are Click and Collect Only. You can order online, choose click and collect, and we will hold your order for collection in store.