
Otocinclus
Otocinclus vittatus
Oryzias latipes
Reviewed for accuracy · Last updated Dec 21, 2025, 6:58 AM
Exceptionally calm schooling fish that thrives in groups, shows gentle interactions, and adapts well to varied water conditions.
Brackish
Very Peaceful
Easy
5 gal (20 L)
1 in (3.5 cm)
3–5 years
Omnivore
Euryhaline
Galaxy Medaka are very peaceful and suitable for calm community aquariums. They coexist well with other small, non-aggressive fish. Avoid housing them with large or fin-nipping species.
Ideal tank mates include small tetras, rasboras, and dwarf shrimp. Snails are also safe companions in planted setups. Their gentle nature makes them stress-prone with boisterous fish.
Keeping them in groups of six or more reduces shyness. A species-only tank highlights natural behavior and breeding. Balanced stocking ensures harmony and longevity.
Galaxy Medaka are hardy and adaptable fish suitable for beginners and experienced aquarists alike. They tolerate a wide temperature range and can live indoors or outdoors in mild climates. Stable water parameters and gentle filtration help maintain their health.
Provide a planted aquarium with floating plants and open swimming space. They appreciate subdued lighting and calm water movement. A secure lid is recommended, as they may jump when startled.
Regular water changes support long-term vitality and color development. They tolerate freshwater and light brackish setups equally well. Consistency matters more than precision for this resilient species.
Galaxy Medaka are omnivorous and accept a wide variety of foods readily. High-quality flakes and micro pellets form a reliable staple diet. They feed actively at the surface and mid-water levels.
Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like daphnia and brine shrimp. These protein-rich options enhance coloration and overall condition. Small portions prevent waste and maintain water quality.
Vegetable matter such as spirulina flakes can be offered regularly. Feed two small meals per day for best results. Observe feeding to ensure all fish eat evenly.
Breeding Galaxy Medaka is straightforward under stable conditions. Males display to females daily and spawning occurs frequently. Eggs are often carried briefly by females before release.
Provide fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for egg deposition. Adults may eat eggs, so separation improves survival rates. Incubation typically lasts one to two weeks.
Fry are small and require infusoria or powdered foods initially. Gradually introduce baby brine shrimp as they grow. Consistent feeding and clean water ensure strong development.
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What is the Galaxy Medaka Ricefish and where does it come from?
The Galaxy Medaka Ricefish is a small freshwater fish native to East Asia, especially Japan, China, and Korea. The Galaxy Medaka Ricefish is known for its speckled galaxy-like coloration, high adaptability, and ease of care in aquariums and outdoor containers.
How big does the Galaxy Medaka Ricefish grow?
Adult Galaxy Medaka Ricefish typically reach a size of 3 to 4 cm (1.2 to 1.6 inches). This small adult size makes the Galaxy Medaka Ricefish suitable for nano aquariums and shallow tanks.
What tank size is recommended for Galaxy Medaka Ricefish care?
A minimum tank size of 20 liters (5 gallons) is recommended for a small group of Galaxy Medaka Ricefish. Larger tanks improve water stability and support more natural swimming behavior for the Galaxy Medaka Ricefish.
Is the Galaxy Medaka Ricefish peaceful and suitable for community tanks?
The Galaxy Medaka Ricefish is peaceful and non-aggressive, making it suitable for calm community aquariums. It can live alongside compatible species such as the White Cloud Mountain Minnow and the Dwarf Emerald Rasbora.
How many Galaxy Medaka Ricefish should be kept together?
The Galaxy Medaka Ricefish is a social species and should be kept in groups of at least six individuals. Group living reduces stress and encourages natural schooling behavior in the Galaxy Medaka Ricefish.
What do Galaxy Medaka Ricefish eat in an aquarium?
The Galaxy Medaka Ricefish is omnivorous and feeds on high-quality flakes, micro pellets, and live or frozen foods. Its diet is similar to other small community fish such as the Galaxy Rasbora, making feeding in mixed tanks straightforward.