Ornate Rainbowfish (Rhadinocentrus ornatus)

Fish in the family Melanotaeniidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameRhadinocentrus ornatus

FamilyMelanotaeniidae

Also known asSoft-spined Rainbowfish, Ornatus Rainbow

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentPeaceful (active)

DietOmnivore

Adult size2.6 in

Minimum tank size20 gallons

Water parametersTemp 68-79°F, pH 5.0-7.0, GH 1-10 dGH

Appearance

Slender body with iridescent blue-green sheen and red-orange fins; coloration varies strongly by locality, with dominant males most vivid.

Difficulty and care for the Ornate Rainbowfish

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Australia (eastern coastal wallum swamps and streams, QLD/NSW)

Keeper notes

Peaceful schooler from soft, acidic, tannin-stained wallum habitats; unlike most rainbows it prefers soft acidic water. Several colorful regional forms exist.

Log Ornate 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 Ornate Rainbowfish alongside everything else in your reef.

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