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Orange Medaka Ricefish (Oryzias latipes)

Orange Medaka Ricefish (Oryzias latipes)

Posted by Max Gandara on on 25th May 2025

Orange Medaka Ricefish (Oryzias latipes)

The Orange Medaka Ricefish is a vibrant and hardy small fish native to East Asia, prized for its bright orange coloration and ease of care. Medaka Ricefish are popular among both beginners and experienced aquarists for their peaceful nature and adaptability.

? Quick Facts

  • Common Name: Orange Medaka, Ricefish

  • Scientific Name: Oryzias latipes

  • Origin: Japan, Korea, and parts of China

  • Size: 1.2–1.6 inches (3–4 cm)

  • Lifespan: 2–4 years

  • Temperament: Peaceful, schooling species

  • Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons

? Water Parameters

  • Temperature: 64–75°F (18–24°C)

  • pH: 6.5–8.0

  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

  • Water Flow: Low to moderate

? Aquarium Setup

  • Substrate: Fine gravel or sand

  • Decor: Live plants, floating plants, and hiding spots

  • Plants: Java moss, hornwort, duckweed, and other easy plants

  • Lighting: Moderate to encourage plant growth and coloration

  • Filtration: Gentle filtration preferred to avoid strong currents

?️ Diet

Orange Medaka are omnivores with simple dietary needs:

  • Staple Foods: High-quality flakes or micro pellets

  • Supplements: Live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms

  • Vegetable Matter: Occasionally blanched vegetables or spirulina flakes

? Behavior & Compatibility

  • Temperament: Peaceful and social; best kept in groups of 6 or more

  • Tankmates: Compatible with other small, peaceful fish such as small tetras, danios, and shrimp

  • Activity: Active swimmers that prefer middle and upper tank levels

? Breeding

  • Type: Egg scatterers; eggs stick to plants and surfaces

  • Ease: Breeding is relatively easy in home aquariums

  • Fry Care: Feed infusoria or finely crushed flakes until fry are large enough for baby brine shrimp

⚠️ Care Tips

  • Maintain stable water parameters and good filtration

  • Avoid aggressive or large tankmates that might stress or eat the Medaka

  • Provide plenty of plants for hiding and egg attachment

? Final Thoughts

The Orange Medaka Ricefish is a beautiful, peaceful, and resilient fish perfect for beginner and community aquariums. Its bright color and lively behavior bring warmth and activity to planted tanks or simple setups alike.