Australian Rainbowfish

Melanotaenia fluviatilis

Also known as: Murray River Rainbowfish, Crimson-spotted Rainbowfish

A hardy rainbowfish with red-spotted fins and flashy silver-green colors that tolerates cooler water.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

68–79°F

pH

7–8

Hardness

8–20 dGH

Max size

3.5 in

Min tank

55 gal

Temperament

Peaceful

Social

Schooling (6+)

Swim level

Middle

Diet

Omnivore

Care level

Beginner

Lifespan

5-8 years

Breeding

Egg-scatterer

Suitability

Common

Origin

Murray-Darling basin, southeastern Australia

An active schooler that needs 6 or more and a long tank with open space. Handles cooler temperatures and harder water well. Peaceful with similar-sized fish. Males color best with females present.