Japanese Rice Fish (Medaka Kohaku Lame) 2cm

Medaka Kohaku Lame – A Sparkling and Hardy Gem for Nano Aquariums

The Medaka Kohaku Lame (Oryzias latipes) is a dazzling and peaceful freshwater fish admired for its pearlescent shimmer and traditional Kohaku colour pattern—white bodies with vivid orange-red markings. Native to Japan, this medaka variety is especially notable for its glitter-like scales, earning the name “lame” (pronounced lah-may). The Medaka Kohaku Lame is perfect for nano tanks, outdoor ponds, or planted setups due to its resilience and gentle temperament.

Size and Lifespan of Medaka Kohaku Lame

Medaka Kohaku Lame fish grow up to 3–4 cm in length. With proper care, they can live for 3 to 5 years, or longer in optimal conditions. They thrive in stable environments with regular water changes and a balanced diet. Their hardiness makes them ideal for both indoor aquariums and outdoor tubs or rice ponds.

Ideal Tank Setup for Medaka Kohaku Lame

A 20-litre tank is sufficient for a small group of Medaka Kohaku Lame. They appreciate a gentle current, soft or fine gravel substrate, and plenty of aquatic plants for cover and breeding. Floating plants like duckweed or water lettuce are especially appreciated. Ideal water parameters include a temperature range of 18–26°C and a pH of 7.0–8.0. They can tolerate cooler water, making them suitable for unheated tanks.

Compatible Tank Mates for Medaka Kohaku Lame

The Medaka Kohaku Lame is peaceful and sociable. Keep them in groups of 6 or more for optimal behaviour. Ideal tank mates include other medaka types, ricefish, peaceful shrimp, small snails, and non-aggressive nano fish such as endlers or small rasboras. Avoid housing them with fin-nippers or large predators.

Feeding and Nutrition for Medaka Kohaku Lame

Medaka Kohaku Lame fish are omnivores and enjoy a varied diet. Feed them high-quality micro pellets, flake food, and supplement with live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, or microworms. They also accept algae-based foods. Feed 1–2 times daily, offering portions they can consume within a few minutes.

Breeding and Behaviour of Medaka Kohaku Lame

Breeding Medaka Kohaku Lame is easy and rewarding. They are egg layers, with females carrying eggs temporarily before depositing them on fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. No parental care is provided, so it’s best to separate eggs or fry. The fry hatch in a few days and can be fed infusoria or powdered fry food. These medaka are active swimmers and exhibit schooling behaviour, often shimmering as they glide through the water.

Medaka Kohaku Lame – Species Overview

• Species: Oryzias latipes
• Common Name: Medaka Kohaku Lame
• Origin: Japan
• Diet: Omnivore
• pH Range: 7.0–8.0
• Temperature: 18–26°C
• Maximum Size: 4 cm
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 L

FAQs about Medaka Kohaku Lame

How big do Medaka Kohaku Lame fish get?
They reach about 3–4 cm in length.

Can Medaka Kohaku Lame live without a heater?
Yes, they are cold-hardy and do well in room-temperature or outdoor conditions.

Are Medaka Kohaku Lame fish easy to breed?
Yes, they readily spawn in planted tanks or with spawning mops.

What makes Medaka Kohaku Lame unique?
Their glittering scales and traditional Japanese Kohaku pattern make them standout nano fish.

Can I keep Medaka Kohaku Lame in a pond?
Yes, they are suitable for outdoor ponds in mild climates.

Add a Medaka Kohaku Lame to Your Aquarium Today!

Bring home the glittering charm of the Medaka Kohaku Lame. Perfect for nano tanks or outdoor setups, this peaceful beauty is sure to enchant aquarists of all levels.