Dwarf neon rainbowfish

Melanotaenia praecox

Blue iridescence and red-orange fins; small size does not remove the need for a group and swimming room.

Adult length: About 4 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 23–27 °C

Natural habitat: Native to the Mamberamo River system in northern Indonesian New Guinea.

Keep at 23–27°C and at least six, with females at least as numerous as males to spread pursuit.

Appearance and identification

Female and juvenile proportions and colours differ; colour intensity alone does not identify a species. Similar to M. rubrivittata, whose adult males have red body stripes absent in this species.

Same-species behaviour

Keep at least six, with females at least as numerous as males.

Space requirements

Retain open swimming room.

Diet and feeding

Offer varied, appropriately sized flakes, small pellets and small animal foods; check that every fish feeds.

Compatibility limits

Watch feeding competition.

Aquarium environment

Retain swimming space outside planted areas.

Sources