Pink Medaka

About the Pink Medaka

The Pink Medaka is a beautiful colour variety of the Japanese Rice Fish, admired for its soft pastel pink to peach colouration, shimmering scales, and peaceful nature. Originating from selectively bred strains of Oryzias latipes, these hardy fish are incredibly adaptable and have become increasingly popular in aquariums, ponds, and aquascapes around the world.

Pink Medaka are active schooling fish that constantly cruise the upper levels of the aquarium, adding movement and elegance to planted tanks. Their subtle metallic pink colour becomes more vibrant under natural sunlight or high-quality aquarium lighting, making them a stunning addition to both indoor aquariums and outdoor ponds.

Unlike many tropical fish, Medaka tolerate a wide range of temperatures, making them ideal for both heated aquariums and temperate outdoor ponds in suitable climates. They are peaceful and mix well with small community fish including White Cloud Mountain Minnows, Corydoras, small Rainbowfish, peaceful Rasboras, and freshwater shrimp.

A varied diet of premium micro pellets, crushed flakes, baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and other small live or frozen foods will keep them healthy while encouraging vibrant colouration and regular spawning.

Hardy, colourful, and easy to breed, the Pink Medaka is an excellent choice for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name

Oryzias latipes

Common Name

Pink Medaka

Origin

Captive-bred variety of a species native to Japan, Korea, and eastern China

Adult Size

3–4 cm

Temperament

Peaceful

Diet

Omnivore

Minimum Tank Size

40 Litres

Temperature

10–28°C

pH

6.5–8.0

Water Hardness

5–20 dGH

Difficulty

Beginner

Lifespan

3–5 Years

Suitable For

Nano aquariums, planted tanks, shrimp aquariums, and outdoor ponds

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pink Medaka good for beginners?

Yes. Pink Medaka are extremely hardy, adaptable, and easy to care for, making them one of the best fish for beginner aquarists.

How many Pink Medaka should I keep?

Pink Medaka are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six. Larger groups display more natural behaviour and are more confident.

What do Pink Medaka eat?

They readily accept micro pellets, crushed flakes, frozen baby brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae, and other small live or frozen foods.

Can Pink Medaka live with shrimp?

Yes. They are excellent companions for Cherry Shrimp, Amano Shrimp, and other dwarf shrimp. Very small shrimplets may occasionally be eaten.

Can Pink Medaka live outdoors?

Yes. They are one of the few ornamental fish that can thrive in outdoor ponds in suitable climates, provided the water does not freeze completely or overheat.

Common Mistakes

Keeping them individually

Pink Medaka are schooling fish and should always be kept in groups.

Housing them with large predators

Avoid keeping them with larger cichlids, goldfish, or other fish that may view them as food.

Overfeeding

Offer small meals several times a day rather than excessive amounts in one feeding.

Poor water quality

Although hardy, regular water changes and good filtration help maintain health and vibrant colouration.

No lid on the aquarium

Pink Medaka are capable jumpers, so a tightly fitting lid is recommended.