Red rainbowfish

The red rainbowfish is a striking freshwater species in the family Melanotaeniidae, endemic to Lake Sentani and nearby waters in New Guinea. Dominant males develop a brilliant brick-red to scarlet body with a deep, laterally compressed shape, while females and subordinate males are olive-silver. It is a peaceful, active shoaling fish best kept in groups of six or more. Keeping several males together encourages them to intensify their red coloration as they compete for dominance and the attention of females. A large aquarium with open swimming space, hardy plants, and good filtration suits its active nature. It is an omnivore that takes flake, pellets, and frozen foods, benefiting from occasional vegetable matter. It mixes well with other robust, similarly sized peaceful community fish, and males color up fully only when given room and a proper group.