Black Diamond Medaka Rice Fish (Oryzias latipes)

Black Diamond Medaka Rice Fish (Oryzias latipes)

This is a premium selectively bred medaka strain, known for its deep black body with metallic shimmer (“lame” sparkle) one of the more collectible morphs in the hobby.

 What makes “Black Diamond” special

• Solid jet-black base color
• Often with:
  • Metallic blue/silver speckles
  • Subtle reflective “diamond” sheen
• Strong contrast under lighting → very eye-catching

Size & lifespan

• Size: ~3–4 cm (1.2–1.6") 
• Lifespan: 2–5 years 

Behavior

• Peaceful, schooling fish
• Best kept in groups of 6+ 
• Very active surface swimmer
• Curious → will come to the front for food

 Same personality as other medaka, just higher-end visually

Care (identical to all medaka)

Water parameters

• Temp: 18–28°C (64–82°F) 
• pH: 6.5–8.0 
• Wide tolerance (cool water + even light brackish)

They’re extremely hardy and beginner-friendly

Tank setup

• 10 gallons+ for a group [shrimplyfi...tastic.com]
• Calm water (low flow)
• Floating plants preferred
• Lid required (they jump)

Diet

Omnivore:

• High-quality micro pellets / flakes
• Frozen/live foods:
  • Daphnia
  • Brine shrimp
• Occasional spirulina

 Better diet = deeper black + stronger metallic shine

Compatibility

Works with:

• Small peaceful fish
• Shrimp (generally safe with adults)
• Snails

Avoid:

• Aggressive fish
• Fin nippers
• Larger predators

Breeding

• Extremely easy

• Egg layers:

  • Female carries eggs briefly
  • Deposits on plants/mops 

• Spawn frequently in warm conditions

• Fry hatch ~1–2 weeks