Can Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) and Licorice Gourami Live Together?

Both Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) and Licorice Gourami are peaceful species with an aggression score of 2/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

In terms of spatial distribution, Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) prefers the Top (Surface) zone, whereas Licorice Gourami occupies the Middle (Open Water) and Bottom (Substrate) zones. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion.

Worth noting: Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 22°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

The pH requirements of Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) (6.5–8.5) and Licorice Gourami (3–6) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

Hardness requirements are incompatible: Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) needs 5–25 dGH while Licorice Gourami requires 0–4 dGH.

To house Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) and Licorice Gourami together, plan for an aquarium of at least 19 litres with a minimum length of 30 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) and Licorice Gourami are the kind of pair that can look acceptable in a shop but become a maintenance problem at home. The main risk is not a single number in the chart; it is the way incompatible behavior, water needs, or pressure on space compounds over time once both fish are established in the same tank.