This time, I would like to explain whether medaka can be raised in small containers like jars.
They Can Be Raised in Small Containers, But…
To conclude first, medaka can be raised in small containers like jars. However, the smaller the container, the more challenging it becomes to raise medaka.
Specifically, it is possible to raise 2 to 3 medaka in a large jar of about 3 liters, but
beginners should raise them in a tank of about 10 liters.
Medaka can only live in water. Since they excrete waste in the water, if the container is small, waste accumulates quickly, causing medaka to get sick and die.
Therefore, to reduce the risk of failure, it is better to raise even small fish like medaka in a tank. However, as long as there is a minimum of about 10 liters of water, a goldfish breeding set sold at home centers should suffice.
How to Raise Medaka in a Container Like a Jar
However, if you frequently change the water, it is possible to raise medaka in small containers like jars. In fact, some people raise medaka in large jars of about 3 liters.
However, in small containers, the water gets dirty faster, and temperature changes become more drastic, making it not a very good environment for medaka.
Therefore, it is important to constantly observe the medaka and take appropriate measures such as changing the water if there are any abnormalities.
Why Medaka Can Be Raised in Small Jars
Medaka are less likely to dirty the water and get sick compared to other ornamental fish like goldfish. They are vulnerable to infectious diseases like columnaris and die quickly from them, but
they are less likely to contract diseases caused by poor water quality, such as aeromonas.
Most importantly, medaka are very light, weighing about 0.1g. They produce much less waste, about 1/50th of that of a goldfish, making it possible to raise medaka in small containers.
https://www.aru-na.net/post-2557
At Least 3 Liters is Recommended
When raising medaka in small containers like jars, it is reassuring to have at least 3 liters. While it is technically possible to raise them in containers of about 1 liter, the smaller the volume, the higher the risk of health issues.
Additionally, raising medaka in extremely small containers means the water gets dirty faster, requiring frequent water changes.
Reduce the Amount of Food
When raising medaka in small containers like jars, it is important to reduce the amount of food. Excess food increases leftovers and waste, speeding up water pollution. Therefore, in small containers like jars, giving too much food quickly worsens water quality. If the water quality deteriorates too much and leftover food starts to rot, or the water becomes cloudy, it becomes a life-threatening situation for the medaka.
To prevent such situations, reduce the amount of food to less than half the usual amount when raising medaka in small containers like jars. Adult medaka can survive without frequent feeding, so it is recommended to feed them once a day with about a spoonful of ear pick.
https://www.aru-na.net/post-2663
Frequent Water Changes
When raising medaka in small containers like jars, frequent water changes are necessary. At least once a week is recommended.
Especially in high-temperature summer or in very small containers of about 1 liter, change the water daily or every few days.
However, changing all the water at once can cause drastic changes in temperature and water quality, stressing the medaka, so change about one-third to half of the water.
Also, when changing the water, ensure the new water is the same temperature as the container water to avoid harming the medaka.
Additionally, removing debris like feces from the bottom with a dropper can help prevent water quality deterioration.
Is Aeration Necessary in Small Containers?
Even when raising medaka in small containers like jars, aeration is beneficial. I use aeration even when placing medaka in small plastic cases for medication or treatment.
Aeration prevents oxygen deficiency, helps prevent water from going bad, and activates bacteria, extending the water change interval. Therefore, if possible, it is better to have aeration.
Add Snails and Plants
When raising medaka in small containers like jars, adding snails, shrimp, and aquatic plants is recommended.
Snails and shrimp clean up leftovers, and aquatic plants absorb ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate, purifying the water quality.
https://www.aru-na.net/post-2504
Especially hornwort and anacharis have high ammonia absorption capabilities, making them recommended for raising medaka in small containers like jars.
https://www.aru-na.net/post-2666
Conclusion
When raising medaka, it is best to use containers of at least 3 liters to reduce the chance of failure.
Additionally, using a tank of over 10 liters further reduces the risk of problems, so beginners should buy tank sets sold at home centers.
You can also raise medaka in containers sold at Daiso, so it is better to use larger containers instead of small jars.
https://www.aru-na.net/post-2511
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