Songkhram ricefish

Oryzias songkhramensis

Orange-black tail bands plus a pectoral-base spot; a red tail alone is insufficient.

A miniature freshwater ricefish with a translucent silver-grey male body, a black spot at the pectoral-fin base and orange-yellow plus black tail-lobe bands. It can be confused with O. mekongensis in mixed shipments, so check individuals as well as labels.

Adult length: Up to 2 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 23–30 °C
pH: 6–7.5
Hardness: 2–15 dGH

Natural habitat: Inhabits clear ditches and rice fields over sand, mud or detritus, with aquatic plants.

Tiny food, protected filter intakes and low feeding competition matter.

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Appearance and identification

Both species can show reddish-orange tail margins. The pectoral-base spot and male anal-fin contact organs are useful differences. Paler female tails are a sex difference, not another species.

Same-species behaviour

Keep eight or more. Watch chasing and hiding.

Space requirements

A 40 × 20 cm base. Provide mature stable water, gentle flow, fine refuge and open areas.

Diet and feeding

Use powdered foods, microworms or newly hatched Artemia and check that each fish swallows and has access.

Compatibility limits

Avoid large fish, predators and vigorous food competitors. Keep breeding groups clearly identified.

Aquarium environment

Fine refuge is useful. Females carry eggs briefly and then deposit them; adults may eat fry.

Sources