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Medeka (Rice Fish) at Aquarium Zone Ballina
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Misc / Aquarium Zone · Ballina

Medeka (Rice Fish).

Oryzias latipes

A peaceful community fish. Grows to about 5 cm and suits a tank of 40 litres or more.

Ask about this fish Explore care guide

The fish, up close

More than a beautiful fish.

Medeka, also known as Rice Fish, are small and peaceful freshwater fish that are popular in the aquarium hobby. They have a slender body with a distinctive silver to golden colouration, often with red or orange accents. Medeka are known for their unique breeding behaviour where males build bubble nests among aquatic plants. These fish are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for beginner aquarists.

Care guide

Build a better match.

Use these notes to shape a setup around the fish, then speak with our team about the tank you have in mind.

Plan your setup

Behaviour

How it lives.

Medeka are peaceful and social fish that do well in community aquariums. They are active swimmers and enjoy exploring their environment. Males may display territorial behaviour during breeding, but aggression is typically minimal.

Tank planning

Set it up well.

Maintaining stable water parameters is crucial for the health of Medeka. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with temperatures around 22-26°C. Regular water changes and a well-filtered tank will help keep the fish healthy. Provide plenty of plants and hiding spots for these fish to feel secure.

Practical details

Plan the space and routine.

Origin
Medeka, or Rice Fish, originate from East Asia, specifically Japan, Korea, and China. They can be found in rice paddies, slow-moving streams, and ponds in these regions.
Max Size
5 cm
Diet
Medeka are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods including high-quality flake, pellet, frozen, and live foods. A balanced diet consisting of small insects, algae, and commercial fish foods will keep them healthy and vibrant.
Tank Recommendation
A tank size of at least 40 litres is recommended for a small group of Medeka. They are shoaling fish and do best in groups of 6 or more individuals.

Questions

Plan before you bring one home.

For a specific fish, current stock or a tank setup question, speak with the Aquarium Zone team before travelling.

Contact the store
Is Medeka (Rice Fish) available at Aquarium Zone in Ballina?

Aquarium Zone regularly helps customers find freshwater fish in Ballina and across the Northern Rivers. Stock changes week to week, so contact the store before visiting if you are looking for Medeka (Rice Fish).

Can Aquarium Zone help me decide if Medeka (Rice Fish) suits my aquarium?

Yes. Bring your tank size, current fish list, setup photos, and any water test results so the team can help with compatibility, stocking, and care advice.

What tank size does Medeka (Rice Fish) need?

Medeka (Rice Fish) is listed with this tank recommendation: A tank size of at least 40 litres is recommended for a small group of Medeka. They are shoaling fish and do best in groups of 6 or more individuals. Ask in-store for advice based on your exact setup and tank mates.

Do you serve customers outside Ballina?

Yes. Aquarium Zone serves aquarium hobbyists from Ballina, Lennox Head, Alstonville, Wollongbar, Bangalow, Byron Bay, Lismore, Evans Head, Mullumbimby, Casino and the wider Northern Rivers.

Aquarium Zone / Ballina

Choose with confidence.

Looking for Medeka (Rice Fish)? Contact us to confirm current availability and discuss whether it suits your aquarium before making the trip.

18 Southern Cross Drive
Ballina NSW 2478
(02) 6686 0002
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