Lake Eacham Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia eachamensis) Care Guide
Melanotaenia eachamensis is an Australian rainbowfish once feared extinct at Lake Eacham, now Endangered and maintained through aquarist populations.
Overview
Melanotaenia eachamensis is a small rainbowfish of the family Melanotaeniidae, reaching about 6.5 cm standard length per FishBase. It was originally believed endemic to Yidyam (Lake Eacham) in Queensland and was once thought extinct; it survived in private aquarists' collections and was later found to have a wider natural range.
Taxonomy
- Family: Melanotaeniidae
- Genus: Melanotaenia
- Scientific name: Melanotaenia eachamensis
Habitat
Recorded from small creeks and crater lakes on the Atherton Tableland between the Barron and South Johnstone river systems, where it congregates along shallow margins among aquatic vegetation, fallen logs and branches. Wikipedia notes that predation by illegally introduced fishes such as the Barred Grunter and Mouth Almighty during the 1980s eliminated it from Lake Eacham itself.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 120 L
- Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- GH: 8-20 °dGH
- School size: 8 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
Diet
FishBase places the species at a trophic level of about 2.9, consistent with an omnivorous diet. In aquaria it takes quality dry foods together with frozen and live invertebrates.
Compatibility
A peaceful mid-water schooler kept in groups of eight or more. It suits planted community tanks with other peaceful rainbowfish of similar size.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Endangered (assessed 2019). It is also protected in Australia under the EPBC Act 1999.