[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Rainbows & Blue-eyes – Threadfin Rainbowfish (Iriatherina werneri)

This is the only species in its genus. It is distinguished from other members of the family by its slender body and threadlike fin extensions. Despite its delicate appearance, Threadfin Rainbowfish is relatively hardy. A light-bodied, dark-eyed form (Lutino) is also occasionally available. Rhadinocentrus ornatus (Ornate Rainbowfish)—a slim-bodied species from Queensland and Victoria, Australia—can be easily distinguished from Threadfin Rainbowfish by its long-based anal fin, lack of fin extensions, and blunt snout.

Family

• Melanotaeniidae

Distribution

• Irian Jaya (New Guinea) and northern Australia.

Size

• Up to 2in (5cm) reported.

Behavior

• A peaceful shoaler.

Diet

• Livefoods preferred, but many commercial diets also accepted.

Aquarium

• Well planted and with no fin-nipping tankmates—e.g., Tiger Barbs {Barbus tetrazona) or Mosquito Fish (Gambusia spp.)—present. Subdued lighting and relatively soft, slightly acid water preferred. Temperature range: 72-84F (22-29C).

Breeding

• Eggs are scattered —over a period of several days—among fine-leaved vegetation. Hatching can take 10-12 days, depending on temperature.