Black-banded Rainbowfish

Melanotaenia nigrans, known as the Black-banded Rainbowfish, is a widespread species from Australia's Northern Territory and parts of Queensland. It is immediately recognisable among Australian rainbowfish by the prominent black mid-lateral stripe that runs from the snout through the eye to the base of the caudal fin, contrasting beautifully against the silver-green iridescent flanks. Males develop additional reddish-orange pigment in their fins and on their dorsal surface when in breeding condition.

This species is highly adaptable and one of Australia's hardiest rainbowfish, tolerating a wide temperature range including cooler conditions. It is ideal for unheated tropical rooms or subtropical aquariums. Its robust constitution makes it forgiving for beginners, and its active, schooling nature makes it engaging to keep. It inhabits a wide variety of water body types in the wild, from still billabongs to gently flowing rivers.

Black-banded Rainbowfish spawn readily among aquatic plants or spawning mops when well conditioned. They are prolific breeders, and a healthy group will produce batches of eggs regularly. The fry are straightforward to raise on fine powder foods and brine shrimp nauplii.

Water: pH 7.0–8.0, temperature 18–30°C, moderately hard; very tolerant of a wide range of conditions. Tank: Minimum 120 L; planted aquarium with open swimming space; suits both heated and unheated subtropical setups. Feeding: Accepts all standard aquarium foods; provide varied diet including live and frozen foods for peak condition. Breeding: Prolific egg scatterer; will spawn regularly among plants or mops; fry easy to raise. Compatibility: Excellent community fish; compatible with most peaceful species of similar size.