Leeri Rainbowfish

Glossolepis leeri is a large and imposing rainbowfish from the Mamberamo River drainage in West Papua, and one of the least frequently encountered members of the Glossolepis genus in the hobby. Its colouration is distinctive among Glossolepis — the base body colour is a rich metallic olive-green to bronze-green rather than the bright red or silver of its better-known relatives, overlaid with vivid reddish-orange scale edges that create an elaborate mosaic effect in dominant males.

This species reaches up to 14 cm and requires a genuinely spacious aquarium of at least 250 litres. It is a powerful swimmer and appreciates strong filtration providing both excellent water quality and brisk circulation. The Mamberamo River is a large, lowland tropical river, so warm water conditions are preferred. Males develop a pronounced dorsal hump as they age.

Glossolepi leeri is only sporadically available, usually through specialist importers with connections to West Papuan fish collecting operations or from hobbyist breeders within the Australasian rainbowfish community. It breeds in the typical manner for the genus.

Water: pH 7.0–8.0, temperature 23–28°C, moderately hard; powerful filtration and 30% weekly water changes. Tank: Minimum 250 L; very open swimming space; plants at margins for visual interest and fish security. Feeding: Quality large pellets and flake; generous portions of live and frozen brine shrimp and bloodworms. Breeding: Egg scatterer on fine plants; separate spawning tank advised; males develop full colour at 14–18 months. Compatibility: Peaceful with other large species; ideal in a West Papuan large-fish biotope.