Description
Species Overview
The Amber Lamé Medaka Ricefish ( Oryzias latipes ) is a beautiful ornamental Japanese Ricefish variety that combines warm amber coloration with sparkling metallic scales. Known as lamé , these reflective scales catch the light as the fish moves, creating flashes of brilliance against its golden-amber body. The effect is especially striking when viewed from above, making Amber Lamé Medaka an excellent choice for shallow planted aquariums, dedicated Medaka displays, and appropriately maintained outdoor patio ponds. Individual fish may display variations in amber intensity and reflective scaling, giving each one its own distinctive appearance.
Small, peaceful, and constantly exploring, Amber Lamé Medaka bring natural movement to the upper levels of the aquarium. These social fish are best appreciated in groups, where their active swimming and interactions create an engaging display without the territorial behavior associated with many other ornamental species. Unlike many tropical aquarium fish, Amber Lamé Medaka are comfortable in cooler freshwater conditions, making them particularly appealing for unheated indoor aquariums maintained within an appropriate temperature range. Their manageable size, adaptable nature, and fascinating reproductive behavior make them rewarding for both beginning and experienced aquarists.
Our Amber Lamé Medaka are Bred by Aquatic Arts™ , raised through our own captive breeding program rather than collected from the wild. Selective breeding emphasizes the variety’s warm amber coloration and reflective lamé scaling, although individual fish may vary in color intensity and the distribution of metallic scales. Whether you’re creating a dedicated Japanese Ricefish collection, designing a beautiful top-view aquarium, or looking for a peaceful species with a distinctive appearance, Amber Lamé Medaka offer an attractive combination of color, movement, and personality.
What We Love About This Fish
Warm Amber Coloration: Beautiful golden-amber tones create a rich, inviting appearance that stands out against green aquatic plants and darker aquarium backgrounds.
Sparkling Lamé Scales: Reflective metallic scales catch the light as the fish swims, creating a shimmering effect that is especially impressive when viewed from above.
Perfect for Top-View Displays: Their coloration and surface-oriented swimming behavior make Amber Lamé Medaka excellent candidates for shallow aquariums, planted displays, and seasonal patio ponds.
Bred by Aquatic Arts™: Raised through our own captive breeding program, these ornamental ricefish reflect our commitment to breeding distinctive and beautiful freshwater aquarium animals.
Quick Care Guide
Scientific Name: Oryzias latipes
Common Name: Amber Lamé Medaka Ricefish, Amber Lamé Japanese Ricefish
Origin: Bred by Aquatic Arts™ – Selectively bred ornamental variety of Japanese Medaka Ricefish
Care Level: Easy – A hardy, adaptable species suitable for beginners and experienced aquarists who maintain stable water conditions.
Temperament: Peaceful and Social – Amber Lamé Medaka are active, non-aggressive fish that do best in groups of their own species.
Diet: Omnivore – Enjoys high-quality micro pellets, finely crushed flakes, small frozen foods, and appropriately sized live foods.
Maximum Adult Size: Approximately 1.25–1.5 inches (3.2–3.8 cm)
Minimum Tank Size: 10 Gallons – Provides adequate swimming space for a small group while allowing room for plants and open surface areas.
Swimming Zone: Upper Water Column and Surface – Amber Lamé Medaka naturally spend much of their time near the water’s surface, making them particularly attractive in top-view aquariums.
Schooling Requirement: Groups of 6 or More – These social ricefish display more natural activity and interactions when maintained together.
Recommended Temperature: 64–75°F (18–24°C) – Comfortable in cooler freshwater conditions and suitable for unheated indoor aquariums when temperatures remain stable.
Recommended pH: 7.0–8.0
Approximate Purchase Size: 0.75–1.25 inches (1.9–3.2 cm) – Individual sizes may vary depending on age and development.
Expected Lifespan: Approximately 2–4 years with proper care.
Aquarium Cover: Recommended – Medaka are capable jumpers, especially when startled or during active courtship.
Aquatic Arts Tip
Amber Lamé Medaka are particularly rewarding when kept in groups in shallow, planted aquariums with open swimming space near the surface. Their reflective metallic scales are best appreciated under balanced overhead lighting, especially when viewed from above. A darker substrate or background can provide attractive contrast with their warm amber coloration.
Recommended Water Parameters & Aquarium Requirements
Amber Lamé Medaka Ricefish ( Oryzias latipes ) are hardy, adaptable fish that thrive in stable, well-maintained freshwater aquariums. Unlike many tropical species, they appreciate cooler temperatures and can be maintained in unheated aquariums when room temperatures remain within their preferred range.
Recommended Water Parameters
Temperature: 64–75°F (18–24°C)
pH: 7.0–8.0
General Hardness (GH): 5–15 dGH
Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3–10 dKH
Ammonia: 0 ppm
Nitrite: 0 ppm
Nitrate: Preferably below 20 ppm
Water Flow: Gentle to Moderate
Aquarium Requirements
A 10-gallon aquarium is the recommended minimum for a group of six Amber Lamé Medaka, although larger aquariums provide additional swimming space and greater water stability. These active, surface-oriented fish benefit from aquariums with a generous horizontal footprint rather than tall, narrow setups. A secure lid is recommended because Medaka are capable jumpers.
Gentle to moderate filtration provides adequate circulation without creating excessive currents. Live plants, including floating varieties, offer shelter and spawning surfaces, but open areas near the surface should remain available for swimming and feeding. Amber Lamé Medaka can also thrive in appropriately maintained outdoor patio ponds when seasonal temperatures, water quality, and predator protection are suitable.
Regular partial water changes, stable water chemistry, and a fully established biological filter are essential. Although Amber Lamé Medaka tolerate a relatively broad range of conditions, sudden changes in temperature or water chemistry should be avoided.
Aquatic Arts Tip
Amber Lamé Medaka are especially attractive in shallow, planted aquariums where their reflective scales can be appreciated from above. A combination of floating plants, open swimming space, and gentle water movement creates an environment that supports their natural behavior while highlighting their beautiful coloration.
