Melanotaenia caerulea (Blue Rainbowfish)

Family: Melanotaeniidae

Distribution: The iridescent Blue Rainbowfish are endemic to the small tributary rainforest streams of the lower and middle Kikori drainage system in Papua New Guinea. They have also been found a nearby unique tidal creek-fed pond which is exposed to direct sunlight.

PH: 7.5 – 8

Temperature: 25°C -28°C (77 – 82F)

Hardness: Approx 6-12gDH based on natural habitat

Description: Melanotaenia caerulea have a breathtakingly beautiful body colour of bright blue on the sides and back that fade out to whitish pink. With variances of dark blue, pinkish-orange and brown stripes scattered in various places on the body, this fish is a dazzling sight to behold when kept in schools. Male Blue Rainbowfish reach a maximum size of eight centimetres and females are smaller, reaching a top of six centimetres. As is usual in rainbowfish varieties, the males are deeper bodied.

Diet: As this fish has not been recorded as an aquarium hobbyist species, it is not known how it would react to an aquarium diet. Based on similar relatives, we could infer that a mixed omnivorous diet of live and frozen food would suffice.

Breeding: The Blue Rainbowfish has not yet been recorded as having been bred in captivity.

Comments: Melanotaenia caerulea is currently unrecorded as having being kept in an aquarium hobby environment.

Given what is generally known about the Melanotaeniidae family, we can infer a peaceful nature suitable for tank companions alike in size and passive personality.