Madagascar Bedotia

Bedotia madagascariensis is the type species of the Bedotia genus and the most commonly encountered Malagasy rainbowfish in the hobby. Originating from rivers in eastern Madagascar, it is a nimble, active schooling fish with a bold black mid-lateral stripe running from the eye to the tail base and vivid yellow and red fin markings that brighten during male displays. The flanks have a silver to greenish-silver iridescence.

This species requires cool to moderately warm, slightly acidic to neutral, soft to moderately hard water reflecting its highland river origin. Madagascar's rivers are often fast-flowing and well-oxygenated, and the aquarium should provide a moderate current and good surface agitation. Dense planting along the margins and rear of the aquarium provides shelter and spawning sites.

Bedotia madagascariensis is well-established in the hobby and is regularly available from specialist breeders. It breeds readily in a planted aquarium when well conditioned, depositing adhesive eggs on fine-leaved plants. The species is representative of an entire order of endemic Malagasy fish that face severe conservation threats in the wild due to habitat destruction.

Water: pH 6.5–7.5, temperature 18–25°C, soft to moderately hard; moderate current and good oxygenation. Tank: Minimum 100 L; well-planted with open swimming lane; gentle to moderate flow. Feeding: Quality flake and pellets; live and frozen daphnia, brine shrimp regularly for best colouration. Breeding: Egg scatterer on fine plants; fry moderate in size; raise on infusoria then brine shrimp nauplii. Compatibility: Peaceful schooling fish; excellent in a Madagascar biotope aquarium with other Bedotia or Rheocles.