The Pink Medaka Ricefish (Oryzias latipes), also known as the Japanese Rice Fish, is one of the hardiest and most versatile fish available in the aquarium hobby. Revered in Japan for centuries, these fish are famous for their unique "top-down" viewing appeal, making them perfect for mini-ponds and shallow basins, though they look equally stunning in standard aquariums.
This specific color morph displays a soft, glowing pink-to-peach hue that stands out beautifully against dark substrates and green plants. They are incredibly adaptable, capable of thriving in a wide range of temperatures, which makes them an ideal choice for unheated indoor tanks or outdoor patio ponds. Peaceful and active, they add life and elegance to any setup without demanding high-maintenance care.
Quick Stats
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Scientific Name: Oryzias latipes
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Care Level: Very Easy / Beginner
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Temperament: Peaceful
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Adult Size: 1.5 inches (4 cm)
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Lifespan: 2 – 4 years
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Minimum Tank Size: 10 Gallons
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Diet: Omnivore
Habitat & Care
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Water Parameters: Medaka are legendary for their durability. They thrive in temperatures between 60°F – 78°F (16°C – 25°C), making a heater optional in many homes. They prefer a pH of 7.0 – 8.0.
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Tank Setup: These fish love planted environments. Floating plants (like Salvinia or Duckweed) are especially appreciated as they mimic their natural rice paddy habitat and provide cover. Low to moderate water flow is best.
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Schooling Behavior: They are social schooling fish. For the best activity and confidence, keep them in groups of 6 or more.
Diet & Feeding
Pink Medaka Ricefish are unfussy eaters with small mouths. Feed them a varied diet of:
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High-quality crushed flake or nano pellet food
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Live or frozen baby brine shrimp
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Daphnia and microworms
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Note: They are surface feeders, so floating foods usually work best.
Tank Mates
Because they are so peaceful and small, they should be kept with other gentle species. Good tank mates include:
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Neocaridina Shrimp (Cherry Shrimp) – Medaka are generally shrimp-safe with adults
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Snails (Nerite, Mystery)
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Small Rasboras (Chili, Phoenix)
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White Cloud Mountain Minnows
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Avoid: Large or aggressive fish that can fit the Medaka in their mouth.
