Blackledge, S., Goodwin, N., Clark, B. 2016. Assessing husbandry requirements of Zebrafish (Danio rerio) and Medaka (Oryzias latipes) using background literature and comparative information. Animal Technology and Welfare 15(3), 191-193.

Zebrafish are the most common species of fish used for research in the UK. However, the species Medaka is establishing itself as a complimentary species to the Zebrafish. Despite having similar husbandry requirements and physiology, there are areas where development differs. This requires a species specific regime to optimise growth, development and reliably ensure the welfare of the fish. The purpose of this study was to compare how Medaka responded to a husbandry regime used for Zebrafish so as to inform and develop an optimal husbandry regime for Medaka. In this study Zebrafish were raised alongside Medaka to track their development over three months. Some regime changes were made when necessary to ensure the welfare of the fish. The study indicated that Medaka have the capacity to grow to maturity faster but require a lower stocking density to do so.