Banded Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia trifasciata) Care Guide

A highly variable rainbowfish species with dramatic color differences between populations. Can display combinations of red, orange, yellow, blue, and green.

Overview

Melanotaenia trifasciata is a species in the family Melanotaeniidae. A highly variable rainbowfish species with dramatic color differences between populations. Can display combinations of red, orange, yellow, blue, and green. Males are more colorful and develop a deeper body shape with age. Hardy and active.

Taxonomy

Family: Melanotaeniidae
Genus: Melanotaenia
Scientific name: Melanotaenia trifasciata
Other names: Jewel Rainbowfish
Origin: Oceania

Habitat

Native to coastal drainages of northern Australia, including Arnhem Land, the Top End and adjacent islands. Inhabits clear streams over sand and gravel and shows striking geographic colour variation, with named regional forms widely circulated in the hobby.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 150 L
Temperature: 23-28 °C
pH: 6.5-8
GH: 5-20 °dGH
Water flow: moderate
Adult size: 8-12 cm
Lifespan: 5-8 years
Recommended group size: ≥ 6
Difficulty: beginner

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: peaceful
Swimming level: middle
Compatible tank mates: Other Rainbowfish, Corydoras, Large Tetras
Avoid with: Aggressive Fish, Very Small Fish

Breeding

Breeding strategy: egg-scatterer
Breeding difficulty: intermediate