Dwarf neon rainbowfish
Melanotaenia praecox · Melanotaeniidae
Also known as Praecox rainbow
Beginner
Compact blue rainbow with red fins; suits a 90 L planted tank.
In short: A dwarf neon rainbowfish needs at least 90 L (24 US gal), water at 23–28 °C (73–82 °F) and pH 6.5–8. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 6 or more, and rated beginner to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 90 L (24 US gal)
- Temperature
- 23–28 °C (73–82 °F)
- pH
- 6.5–8
- Adult size
- 6 cm (2.4 in)
- Group size
- 6+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 90 L (24 US gal)
- Temperature
- 23–28 °C (73–82 °F)
- pH
- 6.5–8
- Hardness
- 5–20 dGH
- Lifespan
- 3–5 years
- Diet
- Omnivore — micro pellets, flake, frozen daphnia.
- Care level
- Beginner
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Mamberamo basin, West Papua
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Clear, plant-lined tributaries
- Natural conditions
- Warm, medium-hard, gently flowing water.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 6 fish
- Swims
- Mid-water
- Good tank mates
- CorydorasHarlequin rasboraOtocinclus
- Avoid
- BettaLarge cichlids
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Intermediate
- Sexing
- Males show red fins and a deeper body.
- Notes
- Scatters eggs in mops over several days.
- Common ailments
- IchFin rot
Will it fit your tank?
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