Riding the Rainbow: A Guide to Keeping Rainbowfish

As an aquarist down under, I'm excited to share some insights about a group of fish that call Australia and its nearby regions home: the Rainbowfish. Known for their brilliant colours and active nature, Rainbowfish can bring your aquarium to life.

Crafting the Perfect Rainbowfish Environment:

Rainbowfish are schooling fish and need to be kept in groups of at least six, though a larger group will make them feel safer and exhibit their natural behaviour better. A spacious tank is a must, as these active swimmers appreciate room to move around; a 150-litre tank is a good start, but larger is better if you can manage it.

Decorate your tank with plenty of plants for cover, along with some open swimming spaces. Use a substrate of fine gravel or sand, and consider adding some driftwood and rocks for a natural touch.

Ideal Water Parameters:

Rainbowfish are freshwater species that prefer the following conditions:

• Temperature: Aim for a comfortable temperature between 22-28 degrees Celsius (72-82 Fahrenheit).
• pH: They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water conditions, so a pH between 6.5 and 7.5 is ideal.
• Hardness: Rainbowfish can tolerate a range of hardness levels, but a general hardness (GH) between 5-15 dGH is a good range.

As always, regular water testing is vital to monitor these parameters.

Feeding Your Rainbowfish:

Rainbowfish are omnivorous and will enjoy a balanced diet of both plant-based and protein-rich foods. Use a high-quality flake or pellet food as a staple diet, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, or bloodworms. We recommend the Ultra Fresh Excellent Bits.

Choosing Rainbowfish Tank Mates:

Rainbowfish are peaceful and active, making them excellent community fish. Suitable tank mates include similarly sized, non-aggressive fish such as Tetras, Danios, Guppies, Platies, and peaceful bottom dwellers like Corydoras. Avoid aggressive or overly territorial species, as they can stress your Rainbowfish.

A Word on Rainbowfish Breeding:

Breeding Rainbowfish can be a challenge, but it's certainly achievable with the right conditions. They are egg scatterers and require a densely planted area or a spawning mop where they can lay their eggs. If you're keen on breeding your Rainbowfish, you'll need to do some extra research to ensure you provide the right environment.

To wrap up, Rainbowfish are a wonderful choice for aquarists looking to add a burst of colour and activity to their tanks. Their beauty and spirited nature are bound to make them a standout addition to your underwater world. Dive into this exciting journey with Rainbowfish, and enjoy the vibrant hues they bring to your aquarium!