Oryzias latipes "Black Medaka"

Commonly called Japanese Ricefish or Japanese Killifish, Medaka are peaceful freshwater fish that are often enjoyed from a top-down view and have been bred into many color morphs. They are not often seen in planted aquariums and are more popular for indoor/outdoor ponds, patio tubs, and other top-view planted setups. They're hardy in nature, have low bioloads and can tolerate a wider range of water parameters so long as they're stable. Though they're a popular pond fish, Japanese Ricefish have calm temperaments and can definitely be a great addition to community tanks.

Rice fish do best in groups, and generally occupy mid to upper levels of aquariums and ponds. They're active swimmers and easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginners as well. If being considered for a planted tank, provide gentle flow and live aquatic plants for coverage and reduced stress. Japanese Rice Fish are omnivorous and will readily accept quality flake, pellet, live, and frozen foods — and, as an added bonus, they will eat any mosquito larvae they find, making them both lovely and useful for outdoor planted tanks or ponds!

Medaka Highlights
Beginner Friendly: Hardy and adaptable, Medaka are often recommended for newer hobbyists looking for an active and easy care fish.
Top-Down Viewing: One of the most enjoyable aspects of keeping Medaka is viewing them from above. Their colors and movement are ideal for shallow aquariums, ponds, and planted tubs.
Peaceful Temperament: Medaka coexist well with other peaceful livestock and are an excellent choice for community aquariums and ponds.

Medaka are social fish that should be kept in groups whenever possible. A group of six or more fish is recommended per 10 gallons to encourage natural behavior and activity. They prefer gentle water movement and will appreciate floating plants, live aquatic plants or additional cover, especially in outdoor setups. They may occasionally jump, so a lid or adequate plant cover s recommended.

Stocking Recommendations
As a practical guideline, plan for approximately one Medaka per gallon of water volume. Larger aquariums and ponds naturally provide more stability and swimming space. Avoid overcrowding as this can increase stress and make maintaining water quality more difficult.

Feeding

Medaka are omnivores and readily accept quality pellets, flakes, frozen and live foods. Feed only what they can consume in a few minutes and remove excess. Avoid overfeeding to help maintain water quality. If kept in outdoor setups, they will happily munch on mosquito larvae too!

Arrival & Acclimation
For best results, introduce new fish into a mature, cycled aquarium or pond. Spend extra time to float bags to match temperature before release. Once in the aquarium, pond or quarantine tank, give them time to settle in! Do not make any significant changes or move them during this time.

Care & Compatibility
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Group Size: 6 or more

Important Information: If using tap water, always treat with a quality dechlorinator. Stable water conditions, regular maintenance, and appropriate stocking levels will help support long-term health and success. As with all live animals, natural variation in color, pattern, and size should be expected.