Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia praecox)

Fish in the family Melanotaeniidae. Easy care. Freshwater.

Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish

Quick facts

Scientific nameMelanotaenia praecox
FamilyMelanotaeniidae
Also known asNeon Rainbowfish, Praecox Rainbow, Diamond Rainbowfish
Care levelEasy
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentPeaceful (active)
DietOmnivore
Adult size2.4 in
Minimum tank size20 gallons
Water parametersTemp 72-82°F, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 8-15 dGH

Appearance

Shimmering neon-blue body with bright red to orange fins. Males have larger, redder fins; females' fins more yellow.

Difficulty and care for the Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish

Easy

Origin and habitat

Indonesia (Mamberamo River basin, West Papua)

Keeper notes

Gentle and peaceful; one of the few rainbows small enough for mid-size community tanks. May nibble very small shrimp fry but generally shrimp-tolerant.

Log Dwarf Neon 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 Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish alongside everything else in your reef.