Neon Dwarf Rainbowfish

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The Neon Dwarf Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia praecox) is a small species of Rainbowfish native to West Papua on the island of New Guinea (Indonesia).

Males are more colourful with more red on their fins, whereas the Females have more muted fins and less of the iridescent blue, appearing more silver.

Habitat

In the wild, these Rainbowfish live in the Mamberamo River in the Irian Jaya province of West Papua. This river has dense vegetation, so a planted tank preferable.

A comfortable temperature for these fish is between 22°C - 28°C.

Size

Our specimens currently measure approx. 3cm

This species' maximum size typically reaches approx. 6cm

Aquarium

We recommend an aquarium with a minimum capacity of 75 Litres.

These are peaceful fish that do well in a community aquarium with other fish of similar size and temperament. 

Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish thrive when in a group of at least 6 fish as they are a schooling fish, and more members of the shoal make them feeler safer and behave with more confidence.

The tank should be well planted, as this is what this species prefers - try to add some floating plants for them to hide in. These fish also enjoy plenty rocks and caves, and a longer aquascaped tank with an open water area in the centre would be ideal.

The tank should be well established to avoid any surprise changes in water parameters that may upset or be otherwise detrimental to the fish.

Feed with small flake, granule, or small frozen meaty foods.

pH levels should fall between the 6 - 8 range.
Hardness should fall between 5 - 15 dGH

Behaviour

Try to house these fish with 1 Male per 2 Females, although they are peaceful and won't fight for dominance as much as some other species. They pose no danger to other fish.

With the right size tank, and a big enough school, these fish are stunning to behold. Their iridescent blue scales reflect the light and make it easy to see why they are called "Neon".

This is a freshwater species - Do not put them in a marine / saltwater aquarium.