Sexlined Rainbowfish

Melanotaenia sexlineata is a slender and attractively striped Australian rainbowfish from the Keep River drainage in the Northern Territory, close to the Western Australian border. Its common name is entirely apt — both sexes display six longitudinal stripes of alternating blue-silver and red-orange pigment running the length of the body, creating a unique and easily recognised pattern that stands apart from the banded, blotched, or iridescent patterning of most other Australian rainbowfish.

This is a moderately available species through specialist Australian native fish suppliers and is well-established in the hobby among enthusiasts of Australian rainbowfish. It is adaptable and relatively undemanding, tolerating a range of water conditions but preferring slightly alkaline, moderately hard water at moderate to warm temperatures.

Melanotaenia sexlineata is an active, schooling species that is best displayed in groups of six or more, where the parallel stripes of multiple individuals create a particularly dynamic visual effect. It breeds readily in a planted aquarium on fine-leaved plants and spawning mops.

Water: pH 7.0–8.0, temperature 22–28°C, moderately hard; tolerant of a range of conditions once established. Tank: Minimum 100 L; planted community aquarium with open swimming zone; suits subtropical to tropical tanks. Feeding: Quality flake and pellets; live and frozen foods several times per week for stripe intensity. Breeding: Egg scatterer on fine plants or mops; breeds readily without special intervention. Compatibility: Peaceful; excellent in Australian native fish community aquariums or general community tanks.