Turquoise rainbowfish
Melanotaenia lacustris
FishFreshwater
- Care level
- Easy
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Recommended tank
- 250 L
- Maximum size
- 12 cm
- Temperature
- 22–26 °C
- pH
- 7–8.5
- Group size
- ≥ 6
- Diet
- Omnivore
Care at a glance
The turquoise rainbowfish comes only from Lake Kutubu and a few adjoining waters in Papua New Guinea. Adult males are deep turquoise blue and deep-bodied, while females stay slimmer and greenish silver.
Its colour only develops after a year or more, so do not be put off by pale young fish in the shop. Keep it in a group in a long tank with open swimming space and somewhat harder water; it is peaceful but too fast for calm, small species.
Related species
Keep Turquoise rainbowfish in the BlubHub app
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Values are mainstream hobbyist guidance, not gospel — always watch what your own animals need.