Daisy's Ricefish

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Exclusive endemic of a tiny range on Muna Island, off southeastern Sulawesi. Inhabits small limestone springs with crystal-clear, hard, slightly alkaline water. Habitat severely threatened by deforestation.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Adrianichthyidae (Ricefish), max 3 cm. Elongated, slightly transparent body. Superior mouth for capturing surface micro-invertebrates. Single dorsal fin positioned very far back, near the caudal.

Social Behavior: Lively peaceful schooler. Males perform elaborate courtship displays. Females carry fertilized eggs in an external cluster attached to the genital pore for hours before depositing them among plants.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Males spectacular: translucent red-orange body with intense blue-neon iridescence along the midline and fins. Male anal fin significantly wider and decorated. Females more transparent with muted colors.

Tank Setup: 40-60 liter nano aquarium, densely planted with mosses and fine-leaved plants. Gentle but present current. Light-colored fine sand or gravel substrate.

Feeding: Surface micro-predator. Accepts small dry foods much more readily than other nano fish, but requires artemia nauplii and daphnia supplementation for colors and breeding.

Water Quality: WARNING: unlike nearly all tropical nano fish (which need soft, acidic water), Oryzias woworae needs HARD, ALKALINE water (pH 7.0-8.0, GH 10-20). European hard tap water is often ideal without treatment.

Compatibility: Ideal with other peaceful hard-water nano fish: Pseudomugil luminatus, Endlers, Neritina snails. Neocaridina shrimp are perfect companions sharing the same chemistry.

Reproduction: Relatively easy. Eggs carried by the female, then attached to mosses. ~2 weeks incubation. Fry accept artemia nauplii from day one.

Risks: Transport fragility: many die in the first 48 hours from osmotic shock. Drip acclimation is mandatory. In soft water they suffer erratic swimming and sudden death.