Eastern Rainbowfish
Melanotaenia splendida
Melanotaenia splendida has an elongated, laterally compressed body with well-developed fins. Males display bright colors ranging from blue to red, while females are duller. This species can reach 12 cm in length. It is very active and swims in schools. Its schooling behavior makes it an excellent community fish. It is also known for its ability to adapt to various water conditions.
Recommended parameters
| Parameter | Recommended range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 24–28 |
| pH | 6.5–8 |
| GH | 5–15 |
| KH | 3–10 |
| NO₃ | ≤ 20 |
| PO₄ | ≤ 0.5 |
Care
Care notes
Maintain temperature between 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, and GH 5-15. A minimum tank of 120 liters is recommended for a group of 6. Feed a varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Regular water changes (20% weekly) are essential. This species is peaceful and compatible with other non-aggressive fish. Avoid strong currents. A planted setup with open swimming areas is ideal.