Our Guide To Keeping Western Rainbowfish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Melanotaenia australis
   • Common name: Western Rainbowfish
   • Family: Melanotaeniidae
   • Origin: Australia
   • Adult length: Up to 12 cm
   • Lifespan: 5 to 7 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Western Rainbowfish prefer a spacious tank with plenty of swimming space. A minimum tank size of 75 litres is recommended for a small school of these fish.
   • Provide ample hiding places and areas with dense vegetation to mimic their natural habitat. They appreciate plants like Java Fern, Anubias, and floating plants like Amazon Frogbit.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Western Rainbowfish thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
   • Keep the water temperature between 22 to 26°C (72 to 79°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • A moderate water flow is suitable for these fish, so choose a filter that provides gentle to moderate flow.

5. Diet:

   • Western Rainbowfish are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. Offer them a balanced diet consisting of high-quality flake or pellet food as a staple.
   • Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia to provide essential nutrients and mimic their natural diet.

6. Tank mates:

   • Western Rainbowfish are peaceful schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six individuals to prevent stress and encourage their natural behaviors.
   • They are compatible with other peaceful community fish such as other rainbowfish, tetras, rasboras, peaceful barbs, and small catfish species.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Western Rainbowfish are active swimmers and display schooling behavior, so they feel more secure and exhibit their best colors when kept in a group.
   • Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping fish species that may intimidate or harass them.