Chilatherina bleheri (Bleher’s Rainbowfish)

Family: Melanotaeniidae

Distribution: Bleher’s rainbowfish is found in both Australia’s Lake Holmes and the lower Mamberamo system of West Papua. With a preference for shallow, abundant plant life and rocky streams, this stunning rainbowfish lives in mountainous regions surrounded by jungle.

PH: 7 – 8

Temperature: 25°C -28°C (77 – 82F)

Hardness: 5-15gDH

Description: Chilatherina bleheri is definitely one of the more striking fish in its family. Iridescent green in body colour fading to pale shades of yellow to red on the fin, the males are infinitely more attractive than their rather drab female counterparts. The males have a particularly spectacular yellow-orange stripe running across the forehead that becomes ever more radiant during breeding season. Bleher’s rainbowfish can grow up to 12cm long and live between 8 and 12 years.

Diet: Another easy feeder, Bleher’s rainbowfish will accept flake as its main food source although live and frozen foods should be included to ensure good health.

Breeding: Said to be the easiest of the rainbowfish varieties to breed, it is suggested that all you need is to put a male and female together and prolific breeding is imminent!

Set up a separate tank with plenty of java moss or spawning mops and let nature run its course. Do keep a couple of females for each male to allow the females to rest during the excessive chasing that occurs during courtship.

Realistically, raising the small fry is the hardest part as they grow very slowly and are exceptionally small. Change the water regularly, separate them from their parents to avoid predation and feed them on fry infusoria or vinegar eels for best results.

Comments: Bleher’s Rainbowfish offer both adaptability and passivity for the novice and adept hobbyist alike. It is suitable for a species or community aquarium. Aim for a tank set up that mimics the natural environment of the Bleher’s Rainbowfish. This includes a lot of driftwood and densely grown aquatic plants that allow for secluded spots in which to hide.

Tip: These fish are a relatively new discovery as they were only collected by Heiko Bleher in 1982. They look very similar to Boeseman’s Rainbowfish so make sure you’re buying the right fish at the aquarium shop.

Any peaceful fish that thrives in alkaline, soft water environments will add to the creation of a perfect home for your Bleher’s rainbowfish. As such, Ghost Shrimp, Neon Tetras, Gouramis, Discus and other rainbowfish species will work well to complete the community tank.