Boesemani Rainbowfish care guide
Boesemani Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia boesemani) — minimum tank 150 L, temperature 24-28 °C, pH 7-8.
Overview
The Boesemani Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia boesemani) is a striking rainbowfish endemic to a small lake system in West Papua, Indonesia. Mature males display a distinctive two-tone body — a deep blue front half transitioning to a vivid orange-yellow rear — while females remain silvery.
Taxonomy
- Family: Melanotaeniidae
- Genus: Melanotaenia
- Scientific name: Melanotaenia boesemani
Habitat
Restricted to the Ayamaru, Hain and Aitinjo lakes of the Vogelkop Peninsula, West Papua, where the water is hard, slightly alkaline and clear, with submerged vegetation and rocky margins.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 150 L (39.6 US gal)
- Adult size: 8-10 cm
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 7-8
- GH: 8-18 °dGH
- Water flow: moderate
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
- School size: ≥6 individuals
Diet
An omnivore that feeds on small invertebrates, insect larvae and plant matter at the surface and mid-water. In aquaria it accepts quality flakes, micro-pellets, frozen and live foods such as daphnia, mysis and brine shrimp; frequent small feedings sustain growth and colour.
Compatibility
A peaceful active mid- to upper-water shoaler that intensifies its colour in male groups when several individuals display together. Maintain a group of at least six and combine with other peaceful active species — large tetras, gouramis, peaceful barbs and Corydoras. Avoid slow, long-finned tankmates.
Breeding
An egg-scatterer that deposits eggs over fine-leaved plants or spawning mops; eggs are adhesive and hatch in 7-10 days. Adults do not actively predate eggs but are best removed for higher fry survival.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Endangered. Wild populations have declined sharply due to over-collection for the aquarium trade and habitat degradation; most aquarium stock is now captive-bred from established lineages.