Threadfin Rainbowfish care guide
Threadfin Rainbowfish (Iriatherina werneri) — minimum tank 40 L, temperature 24-30 °C, pH 5.5-7.5.
Overview
The Threadfin Rainbowfish (Iriatherina werneri) is a small melanotaeniid from northern Australia and New Guinea. Males display dramatically elongated thread-like dorsal and anal fin rays; both sexes show subtle iridescent body colour.
Taxonomy
- Family: Melanotaeniidae
- Genus: Iriatherina
- Scientific name: Iriatherina werneri
- Common synonyms: Featherfin Rainbowfish
Habitat
Native to vegetated swamps, billabongs and slow-flowing creeks of northern Australia (Cape York Peninsula) and southern New Guinea, in warm, soft to moderately hard, slightly acidic to neutral water.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 40 L (10.6 US gal)
- Adult size: 3-4 cm
- Temperature: 24-30 °C (75-86 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.5
- GH: 3-12 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- School size: ≥6 individuals
Diet
An omnivore with a small mouth. Offer finely crushed flakes, micro-pellets and small live or frozen foods (cyclops, daphnia, baby brine shrimp).
Compatibility
A peaceful, delicate shoaling species. Keep a group of at least six in a heavily planted aquarium with subdued lighting and gentle flow. Avoid all fin-nipping species (barbs, Serpae Tetra) and very active tankmates; ideal companions are calm nano fish such as Boraras, Ember Tetra and dwarf rasboras.
Breeding
An egg-layer that places adhesive eggs on fine-leaved plants or spawning mops over several days. Eggs incubate for 7-12 days; fry are tiny and require infusoria as a first food.