Details of all species referred to in these Fish Care Sheets can be found in the FBAS Booklet No 6 - National Show Fish Sizes. Click HERE for information.
Rainbowfish (2) 01/03/2002
Species: Pseudomugil and Iriatherina
See fishes listed in the current Federation Size Book, Class M or Mc
Family: Atheriniformes
Geographic Origin: Papua New Guinea, Australia
Common Names: Blue-eyed Rainbows
Compatibility: Generally active fish that are best kept in a shoal of at least
six fish. Not aggressive towards one another or to tankmates.
As they are small fish, they should not be kept with large
boisterous fish. Best kept in a sole species aquarium.
Minimum Aquarium Size: The smaller species can be kept in a
450mm x 250mm x 250mm (18” x 10” x 10”) aquarium
which must have a have a lid and a cover glass.
Temperature: Ideal temperature is around 24oC/75oF.
Is able to cope with higher temperatures.
Habitat: Best kept in a well planted aquarium, with a gravel substrate.
Water Parameters: Tolerates hard water. Will generally only breed in hard
water. Water change of approximately 25% each week is
most beneficial.
Health: Generally do not seem to be over susceptible to white spot or fungus.
As with all new fish, quarantine for at least one week in a separate
tank. Any fish that appear sick, immediately isolate in a separate tank.
Do not dispose of dead fish by flushing then down the toilet. Incinerate
or wrap in paper and put in dustbin.
Diet: Omnivorous. These fish will accept dried, frozen and all types of live
food (e.g. small Daphnia). Favourite food - newly-hatched Brine Shrimp.
Do not overfeed. Many problems can be caused by overfeeding (pollution
of water by decaying food).
Plants: All species of tropical plants are acceptable. Not plant eaters.
A clump of Java Moss should be provided for the fish to use for
spawning and hiding
Breeding Notes : Many Rainbowfish are continuous spawners. Remove any
egg-laden fine-leaved plants
to a separate tank for hatching.
Availability: Not widely available. Only select fish that are alert and
swimming with fins erect. Inspect carefully for signs of disease.
Reject lethargic, damaged or hollow bellied specimens.
Show Class: FBAS Class M or Mc
© FBAS 2002. PWC/RDE. Fish Care Sheet 23 1/1
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