Description
Scientific Name: Melanotaenia boesemani Common Name: Boeseman’s Rainbowfish Origin: Ayamaru Lakes, West Papua (Indonesia)
Physical Characteristics This fish is celebrated for its unique bi-color pattern, which intensifies as the fish matures.
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The “Half-and-Half” Look: Adult males display the signature pattern: the head and front body are a metallic violet/blue, fading into a intense orange or red at the tail. Where the colors meet, vertical dark bars are often visible.
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Females vs. Males: Males are deeper-bodied, have brighter colors, and develop a higher arched back. Females are slimmer and much duller, usually displaying a plain silver or greenish-grey color with a faint yellow stripe.
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Size: They grow to a substantial size, reaching 4 to 5 inches (10–13 cm) in length.
Behavior and Temperament
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Schooling: Like all rainbowfish, they are social and need to be kept in groups of 6 or more. A mixed group of males and females encourages the males to show their best colors as they “flash” to attract mates.
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Activity: They are high-energy swimmers that occupy the middle and top levels of the tank. They are constantly on the move.
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Peaceful: They are excellent community fish. They get along well with other active fish like Barbs, Danios, and Corydoras. However, their speed might stress out very slow, shy fish.
Care and Habitat
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Tank Size: Due to their size and activity level, they require a tank that is at least 4 feet long (minimum 55 gallons). They need plenty of open swimming space.
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Water Conditions: They require hard, alkaline water to thrive.
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pH: 7.0 – 8.0 (They often struggle in soft, acidic water).
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Temperature: 75°F – 82°F (24°C – 28°C).
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Diet: They are omnivores. To keep the orange half of their body bright, feed them foods rich in carotenoids (like krill or color flakes) alongside green vegetable matter.
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