BOESMAN'S RAINBOW
Copyright © 2001, Charles Clapsaddle
Photos kindly provided by http://www.santafefish.com
Common name - Boesman's Rainbow | Advanced fish |
Latin name - Melanotaenia Boesemani | Middle swimming fish |
Group name - Rainbow fish | A schooling fish |
Family name - Melanotaeniidae |
GENERAL INFO
Size -Males 9cm (3.5in) and females 7cm (3in) | Origin - Ajamaru Lakes (Irian Jaya) |
Temp - Around 81-86F or 27-30C (pretty hot!) | PH - 6.5 to 7.0 - about neutral |
Food - omnivorous : will eat flake, live and frozen food |
SPECIES SPECIFIC INFO
This is very popular because of its very striking and beautiful markings. It is best to keep them in a shoal of both sexes so the colours are displayed at their best. However, it is unusual nowadays to find a spectacular fish due to all the captivity breeding. The best fish are those from the wild.
These fish need a large tank, especially during their younger years - as a smaller tank will inhibit their growth. The tank requires open swimming space with thick vegetation along the borders. Efficient filtration is needed but not too much water movement.
This is a relatively peaceful fish and will go well in a community tank. It is also active so will be a good focal point.
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