[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Rainbows & Blue-eyes – Boeseman’s Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia boesemani)

This splendid fish was first imported into Europe in 1980. Its strikingly unusual coloration, best seen in mature males in peak condition, quickly made it popular with aquarists. The vast majority of specimens available for aquaria are now captive bred.

Family

• Melanotaeniidae

Distribution

• Ajamaru Lakes and surrounding areas in Irian Jaya (New Guinea).

Size

• Up to 4 3/4in (12cm) reported, but usually smaller.

Behavior

• Generally peaceful, though active, shoaler.

Diet

• Wide range of foods accepted.

Aquarium

• Spacious, well planted, with large open central area. Short, fine- leaved/fronded plants, such as Java moss {Vesicularia dubyana), may be used along bottom of swimming area. Soft, slightly acid to neutral, well-filtered but not turbulent water recommended; Temperature range: 77-86°F (25-30°C).

Breeding

• Eggs are scattered —over a period of a few days—among fine-leaved vegetation, e.g., Java moss. Hatching takes approximately 7 days.