Banded Leporinus (Leporinus fasciatus)

Melanotaenia trifasciata, the Banded Rainbowfish, is a variable and deeply collectible species from the rivers of northern Australia, where isolated populations across different catchments have diverged in colouration to a remarkable degree — from deep burnt orange and red forms in some localities to vivid electric blue in others, with virtually every warm and cool colour combination represented across the range. This geographic colour variation makes locality-specific collection a fascinating dimension of the hobby, and serious rainbowfish enthusiasts often maintain multiple tanks of different Melanotaenia trifasciata localities in parallel. Males of all forms are deep-bodied, high-backed, and particularly dramatic when displaying to each other or courting females. Keeping specimens from a single collection locality ensures consistent colouration in offspring.

Keep in groups of 6+ in a spacious aquarium with strong filtration and moderate current. Provide open mid-water swimming space with plants along the margins. Feed varied diet of flakes, small pellets, and frequent frozen foods including daphnia, mysis, and brine shrimp. Pristine water quality produces the most vivid and consistent male colouration. Keep locality forms separate to prevent interbreeding if conservation of locality-specific genetics is a goal.