Ricefish (Oryzias woworae)

Oryzias woworae, known as Daisy's Ricefish or the Woworae Ricefish, is a small and stunning member of the ricefish family (Adrianichthyidae) from the limestone-filtered springs and streams of Flores, Indonesia. Males display an extraordinary combination of neon blue-green iridescence on the dorsal half of the body with vivid orange-red on the lower flanks, making them one of the most colorful freshwater fish their size.

This species grows to only 2–3 cm and is ideally suited to nano aquariums or species tanks. Like all ricefish (Oryzias), they practice external fertilization where females carry clusters of fertilized eggs attached to their vent for a short period before depositing them on fine plants or spawning mops. The fry are miniature adults and can feed on micro foods immediately.

Daisy's Ricefish are peaceful, active small schooling fish that are best kept in groups of 8 or more. They occupy the upper water column and are surface-oriented, which makes them especially visible and interactive. They are comfortable in a range of water conditions and are quite hardy for their small size.

They prefer well-planted tanks with gentle filtration, floating plants, and fine-leafed stem plants for spawning. Soft to moderately hard, slightly acidic to neutral water suits them well. Avoid strong current — they are small fish from calm water environments.

Water Parameters: Daisy's Ricefish prefer pH 6.5–7.8, temperature 24–28°C, GH 5–15. They are from limestone-influenced springs so moderately hard, neutral water is suitable. They tolerate soft water as well. Avoid strong current and keep temperatures stable.

Tank Setup: A 20-liter nano aquarium is sufficient for a small group. Provide dense fine-leafed plants (Java moss, hornwort), floating plants (frogbit, water lettuce), and minimal flow. A dark substrate with Indian almond leaves adds a natural look and benefits the fish. A tight-fitting lid is essential as they can jump.

Feeding: Tiny omnivores that accept micro flake food, micro pellets, infusoria, baby brine shrimp, and micro worms. Feed in very small amounts twice daily. Fine-crushed standard flake food works well.

Tankmates: Best kept as a species tank or with other small, peaceful nano species: microrasboras, small tetras, dwarf corydoras, and dwarf shrimp. Their small size makes them vulnerable to any predatory or boisterous tankmates.

Breeding: Females carry egg clusters briefly before depositing them on plants. Remove eggs to a separate vessel or provide dense planting for fry protection. Fry are tiny but can accept micro foods from birth.