How to Care for Japanese Rice Fish (Medaka): A Beginner’s Guide

Japanese rice fish, commonly known as Medaka, are perfect aquarium pets for beginners due to their hardiness and peaceful nature. Here's everything you need to know to get started with Medaka care.

Essential Tank Setup for Medaka Care

Medaka thrive in small groups and require at least a 10-litre tank to start comfortably. Provide plenty of aquatic plants for hiding and spawning.

Ideal Setup:

• Tank Size: 10-20 litres for small groups

• Aquatic Plants: Java moss, hornwort, water lettuce

• Substrate: Fine gravel or sand

  
  

Medaka pond

Ideal Water Conditions

Medaka are adaptable but prefer specific water conditions:

• Temperature: 15–28°C (ideal 20–24°C)

• pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline (7.0–8.0)

• Water hardness: Soft to moderately hard

Perform partial water changes weekly (20-30%) to maintain ideal water conditions.

Feeding and Maintenance Tips

Medaka have a versatile diet and will happily consume:

• High-quality flakes or micro-pellets

• Live or frozen foods (daphnia, bloodworms)

• Supplement occasionally with boiled vegetables (peas or spinach)

Feed them 1-2 times daily, offering only what they can consume within a few minutes.

Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfeeding: Excess food pollutes water quality.

• Neglecting Water Changes: Regular water maintenance is vital for fish health.

• Overcrowding: Keep groups small (5-10 fish per 10 litres).

  
  

Follow these tips, and your Medaka will thrive, offering you a delightful "slice of nature."