Japanese Rice Fish – Black Lame Medaka 3cm

Black Lame Medaka – Dazzling Aussie Gem for Your Aquarium

The Black Lame Medaka, a stunning Japanese rice fish, enchants with its iridescent black scales. Consequently, its hardy, peaceful nature suits beginners and experts alike. Additionally, it thrives in cool-water nano tanks. Therefore, this guide details its care, ensuring your Medaka flourishes. So, let’s create a vibrant habitat for this captivating fish!

Size and Lifespan

The Black Lame Medaka grows to a compact 4cm, ideal for small tanks. Moreover, with proper care, it lives up to 4 years. Cooler temperatures slow metabolism, extending lifespan. Thus, stable conditions and quality care keep these fish healthy and vibrant for years.

Ideal Tank Setup

To mimic its rice paddy habitat, the Black Lame Medaka needs a thoughtful setup. Furthermore, a 10-gallon tank with gentle flow suits its needs. Additionally, plants provide cover and encourage natural behaviour. Therefore, include these essentials:

• 10-gallon tank: Supports schooling and activity.
• Floating plants: Java moss or water sprite for shade.
• Sponge filter: Ensures gentle filtration.
• Low lighting: Mimics natural conditions, reducing stress.

Compatible Tank Mates

These serene fish thrive with small, peaceful species. Moreover, their calm nature suits community tanks. However, avoid large or aggressive fish to prevent stress. Suitable tank mates include:

• White Cloud Mountain Minnows
• Amano Shrimp
• Small Rasboras
• Nerite Snails

Diet and Feeding

The Black Lame Medaka, an omnivore, eagerly accepts varied foods. Consequently, offer crushed flakes, tiny pellets, and live or frozen brine shrimp. Additionally, include algae-based foods for balance. Feed small portions twice daily, removing uneaten food to maintain water quality. Thus, a diverse diet ensures vibrant colours and health.

Breeding and Behaviour of Black Lame Medaka

These fish display lively courtship, with males flashing shimmering hues. Moreover, females lay eggs daily in spring and summer, attaching them to plants. For breeding success, provide dense vegetation and move eggs to avoid predation. Additionally, their social nature thrives in groups of six or more, boosting activity and reducing stress.

Species Overview

• Species: Oryzias latipes
• Common Name: Japanese Rice Fish
• Origin: Japan, Laos, Vietnam, Eastern Korea, Eastern China
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH Range: 6.5-8.0
• Temperature: 16°C-24°C
• Breed Type: Egg Layer
• Current Size: 3cm
• Max Size: 4cm
• Tank Size: 10 gallons

FAQs

What size tank is ideal for Black Lame Medaka?
A 10-gallon tank suits their schooling and active nature.

Can they live with other fish?
Yes, they thrive with small, peaceful species like rasboras or shrimp.

How often should I feed them?
Feed small amounts twice daily, ensuring no food remains.

Do they need to be in groups?
Yes, keep six or more for optimal social behaviour.

How long do they live?
With proper care, they live up to 4 years.

Add a Black Lame Medaka to Your Aquarium Today!