Exquisite Rainbowfish

Melanotaenia exquisita fully deserves its superlative name. Collected from the Weyland River drainage in West Papua, Indonesia, this species produces males of exceptional beauty — the anterior body glows with electric blue-green iridescence while the posterior half and unpaired fins blaze with vivid orange-red pigment, creating a dramatic and eye-catching contrast. Females are considerably more subdued but still attractive with golden-silver flanks.

This species is not commonly seen in the hobby and commands a premium price when available. It does best in soft to moderately hard, slightly acidic to neutral water kept clean and well-oxygenated. A planted aquarium with some open midwater space suits it perfectly. Males are vigorous in their courtship displays but do not cause physical harm to tankmates.

Exquisite Rainbowfish breed readily when well fed on a varied diet that includes live and frozen foods. They are free-spawning egg scatterers that deposit adhesive eggs on fine-leaved plants or mops. Fry are tiny and require infusoria or commercial fry food before graduating to newly hatched brine shrimp.

Water: pH 6.5–7.5, temperature 23–28°C, soft to moderately hard; regular water changes essential for maintaining health and colour. Tank: Minimum 100 L; planted with open swimming zone; gentle to moderate current. Feeding: High-quality flake, micro-pellets; supplement frequently with live daphnia, frozen brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Breeding: Egg scatterer on fine plants or mops; remove eggs to separate rearing vessel; fry need infusoria initially. Compatibility: Peaceful community fish of similar size; avoid nippy species that may damage their fins.