Turquoise Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia lacustris)

Fish in the family Melanotaeniidae. Easy care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameMelanotaenia lacustris

FamilyMelanotaeniidae

Also known asLake Kutubu Rainbowfish, Blue Rainbowfish

Care levelEasy

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentPeaceful (active)

DietOmnivore

Adult size4.5 in

Minimum tank size50 gallons

Water parametersTemp 72-79°F, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20 dGH

Appearance

Glowing turquoise-to-blue body shifting to greenish over the back, often with a paler underside. Color intensifies dramatically in mature dominant males.

Difficulty and care for the Turquoise Rainbowfish

Easy

Origin and habitat

Papua New Guinea (Lake Kutubu)

Keeper notes

Peaceful schooler; males color up and joust during display without injury. Prefers harder, alkaline water typical of its lake habitat.

Log Turquoise 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 Turquoise Rainbowfish alongside everything else in your reef.

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