This slender-bodied aquarium favorite is the only rainbowfish of African origin. It is a colorful species, the males being multicolored, and the females yellow. A large shoal kept under appropriate conditions creates an unforgettable sight.
Other common name
- Bowfish
Synonym
- Bedotia geayi
Family
- Bedotiidae
Distribution
- Madagascar.
Size
- Up to 6in (15cm) reported, but usually smaller.
Behavior
- A peaceful shoaler.
Diet
- Wide range of (mainly) floating formulations accepted. Food that sinks to the bottom is ignored.
Aquarium
- Spacious, well planted, with large, central, open swimming area. Water chemistry not critical, as long as quality is good, but neutral to slightly alkaline, medium-hard water preferred, with frequent partial water changes. Temperature range: 68-77F (20-25 C).
Breeding
- Eggs are scattered among fine- leaved vegetation. Hatching can take around 7 days.
