New Guinea Blue-eye

Pseudomugil novaeguineae is among the more broadly distributed blue-eyes across the lowland rivers and coastal streams of Papua New Guinea, and as a result it shows somewhat more variability in colour and size across its range than more localised species. In all populations, males display the characteristic iridescent blue eyes that give the genus its common name, combined with attractive yellow-gold body colouration and fins that carry dark (black to brown) margins creating a neat, contrasting pattern.

This species is moderately available through specialist importers and has been bred in captivity for a number of years. It is somewhat more adaptable than some Pseudomugil species, tolerating a slightly broader range of water conditions, but still requires good water quality and cannot handle poor filtration or infrequent water changes. It pairs beautifully with small, peaceful fish such as nano rasboras, pencilfish, and dwarf corydoras.

Pseudomugil novaeguineae breeds readily when maintained in optimum conditions, spawning on fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. The fry are small and require appropriately sized food for the first two weeks.

Water: pH 6.5–8.0, temperature 23–28°C, moderately hard; weekly 20–25% water changes; good filtration. Tank: Minimum 40 L; planted with fine-leaved plants and some floating cover; gentle to moderate flow. Feeding: Fine flake, micro-pellets; baby brine shrimp and micro-worms for best colouration and condition. Breeding: Egg scatterer on fine plants or mops; fry small but reasonably robust after first week. Compatibility: Excellent peaceful nano species; compatible with most small, non-aggressive community fish.