Black-banded Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia nigrans)

Fish in the family Melanotaeniidae. Easy care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameMelanotaenia nigrans

FamilyMelanotaeniidae

Also known asDark Australian Rainbowfish, Nigrans Rainbow

Care levelEasy

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentPeaceful (active)

DietOmnivore

Adult size4.3 in

Minimum tank size40 gallons

Water parametersTemp 72-86°F, pH 6.0-8.0, GH 5-16 dGH

Appearance

Slender silvery body with a prominent dark midlateral stripe and red-tipped fins; dominant males show reddish flush.

Difficulty and care for the Black-banded Rainbowfish

Easy

Origin and habitat

Australia (northern coastal drainages, NT/QLD)

Keeper notes

Peaceful and hardy; tolerates a wide range of conditions including softer water than the lake species. Active schooler.

Log Black-banded Rainbowfish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Black-banded Rainbowfish alongside everything else in your reef.

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