Checkered Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia splendida inornata) Care Guide
Melanotaenia splendida inornata is the northern Australian subspecies of M. splendida, a peaceful schooling rainbowfish with checker-pattern scales and golden sheen.
Overview
Melanotaenia splendida inornata, the chequered rainbowfish, is the northern Australian subspecies of M. splendida, a member of the family Melanotaeniidae. It is recognisable by its checker-pattern scales and golden body sheen in adult males. The subspecies was described by Castelnau in 1875.
Taxonomy
- Family: Melanotaeniidae
- Genus: Melanotaenia
- Scientific name: Melanotaenia splendida inornata
- Described by: Castelnau, 1875 (subspecies)
Habitat
This subspecies occurs across northern Australia, from the Mary River east to the Cape York Peninsula and the Torres Strait Islands. It inhabits deeper pools in freshwater streams, as well as lakes and reservoirs, and forms large schools.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6.5-8.0
- GH: 8-25 °dGH
- School size: 8 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
A large aquarium with open swimming space, moderate flow and robust plants suits this active fish, which tolerates varying water clarity and vegetation levels.
Diet
An omnivore, it feeds on filamentous algae, aquatic and terrestrial insects, small crustaceans and invertebrates, accepting prepared foods in captivity.
Compatibility
A peaceful, mid-water schooling fish that mixes well with other rainbowfish and loaches. Aggressive cichlids should be avoided.
Breeding
Spawning occurs year-round with about 60-70 golden eggs per event, attached by adhesive filaments to vegetation; larvae hatch after roughly one week at about 4 mm.