Metallic Black Medaka

PreOrder

Description

Metallic Black Medaka

A dramatic black-bodied medaka whose deep metallic scales throw an intense blue shine under strong external light — from certain angles the whole school looks electric blue.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific name: Oryzias latipes
  • Common name: Japanese ricefish / Medaka
  • Strain: Metallic Black
  • Adult size: Up to approximately 4 cm
  • Temperament: Peaceful and social
  • Temperature: 16–22°C
  • pH: 6.5–8.5
  • Hardness: 5–25 dGH
  • Group size: Keep 8 or more where possible

Is this for you?

Perfect if: you want a hardy temperate fish with striking metallic coloration, suited to planted indoor aquaria or shaded outdoor tubs.

Consider something else if: your display is permanently heated to tropical temperatures, or you keep aggressive or fin-nipping tankmates.

Why choose Metallic Black Medaka?

The inky body with its hidden blue metallic flash makes this strain one of the most dynamic medaka on display; side lighting or bright overhead light brings out the strongest blue.

Key Benefits

  • The inky body with its hidden blue metallic flash makes this strain one of the most dynamic medaka on display; side lighting or bright overhead light brings out the strongest blue.
  • Peaceful group fish, best kept in numbers
  • Suits unheated aquariums and outdoor containers in most Australian climates
  • Accepts small quality prepared, frozen and live foods

Care & Specifications

Provide a mature, well-filtered aquarium with dense planting, some surface cover and open swimming room. A base footprint of at least 45 × 30 cm suits a small group. This temperate species prefers 16–22°C; avoid permanent exposure to high tropical heat. Feed small portions of quality micro-pellets or flakes, supplemented with daphnia, brine shrimp or similarly sized foods.

What will you receive?

One healthy metallic black medaka from the current batch. Sex is not selectable unless specified at purchase; males tend to show deeper coloration and more intense sheen, while females are fuller-bodied. Individual sheen and pattern vary.

Acclimation & Introduction

Float the sealed bag for temperature equalisation, then add small amounts of tank water over 15–20 minutes before netting the fish into the aquarium. Do not add transport water to the display tank, and keep lighting subdued on the first day.

Metallic Black Medaka

PreOrder

Product form
Free pickup in our shop(s)
📦 Arrival Date: 13 September 2026

20 in stock

$30.00


All prices include GST
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    Description

    Metallic Black Medaka

    A dramatic black-bodied medaka whose deep metallic scales throw an intense blue shine under strong external light — from certain angles the whole school looks electric blue.

    Quick Facts

    • Scientific name: Oryzias latipes
    • Common name: Japanese ricefish / Medaka
    • Strain: Metallic Black
    • Adult size: Up to approximately 4 cm
    • Temperament: Peaceful and social
    • Temperature: 16–22°C
    • pH: 6.5–8.5
    • Hardness: 5–25 dGH
    • Group size: Keep 8 or more where possible

    Is this for you?

    Perfect if: you want a hardy temperate fish with striking metallic coloration, suited to planted indoor aquaria or shaded outdoor tubs.

    Consider something else if: your display is permanently heated to tropical temperatures, or you keep aggressive or fin-nipping tankmates.

    Why choose Metallic Black Medaka?

    The inky body with its hidden blue metallic flash makes this strain one of the most dynamic medaka on display; side lighting or bright overhead light brings out the strongest blue.

    Key Benefits

    • The inky body with its hidden blue metallic flash makes this strain one of the most dynamic medaka on display; side lighting or bright overhead light brings out the strongest blue.
    • Peaceful group fish, best kept in numbers
    • Suits unheated aquariums and outdoor containers in most Australian climates
    • Accepts small quality prepared, frozen and live foods

    Care & Specifications

    Provide a mature, well-filtered aquarium with dense planting, some surface cover and open swimming room. A base footprint of at least 45 × 30 cm suits a small group. This temperate species prefers 16–22°C; avoid permanent exposure to high tropical heat. Feed small portions of quality micro-pellets or flakes, supplemented with daphnia, brine shrimp or similarly sized foods.

    What will you receive?

    One healthy metallic black medaka from the current batch. Sex is not selectable unless specified at purchase; males tend to show deeper coloration and more intense sheen, while females are fuller-bodied. Individual sheen and pattern vary.

    Acclimation & Introduction

    Float the sealed bag for temperature equalisation, then add small amounts of tank water over 15–20 minutes before netting the fish into the aquarium. Do not add transport water to the display tank, and keep lighting subdued on the first day.

    Live Arrival & Ordering FAQ

    Why do livestock prices sometimes change?

    Unlike manufactured products, fish and shrimp continue to grow and develop over time. Their value changes as they increase in size, develop colour, or become breeding pairs.

    Our prices are based on the current size, quality and availability of each specimen. While pricing often remains stable for around 3–4 months, it may be updated at any time to reflect these changes.

    We always aim to offer healthy, high-quality livestock at fair and competitive prices.

    Do you offer a live arrival guarantee?

    Yes. All livestock is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

    In the rare event of DOA, please contact us promptly with clear photos of the livestock in the original unopened bag.

    Please review our full DOA and store policies before purchase.

    Can you ship to all states in Australia?

    No. Due to state restrictions, we cannot ship livestock or live plants to WA and TAS.

    What should I check before ordering?

    Before placing an order, make sure:

    • Your tank is fully cycled and stable
    • Your aquarium has enough space for the species
    • Your current livestock are compatible in temperament, size, and requirements
    • Your water parameters, habitat, and temperature suit the species
    • You are not adding too many fish at once
    What should I expect when my fish arrives?

    It is normal for fish, shrimp, or snails to look pale, stressed, or less active after shipping.

    This is temporary. Most livestock will settle and regain colour within a few days.

    How long does it take for fish to settle in?

    Most livestock will take 3–7 days to fully adjust to their new environment.

    Should I feed my fish immediately after arrival?

    No. We recommend waiting 24 hours before feeding to allow them to settle.

    If you already have fish in your tank, feeding them before introducing new arrivals can help reduce stress.

    Why do fish sometimes struggle after being added to a tank?

    In most cases, issues are caused by tank conditions, not shipping.

    • Uncycled or unstable tanks
    • Poor water parameters
    • Overstocking
    • Unsuitable tank mates
    What is Nano Tanks Australia’s main tip for new livestock?

    Most livestock losses happen in immature or unstable tanks, not during shipping.

    If your setup is not fully established, the risk to new arrivals is significantly higher.

    Not sure if this fish is right for your setup?

    If you are unsure whether this species suits your setup, contact us before ordering and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

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