Freshwater
Exquisite rainbowfish
Melanotaenia exquisita
Melanotaeniidae
Facts
Characteristics
- Length
- Up to 7.5 cm
- Body shape
- Elongated
Care
- Group
- At least 6 together
- Smallest aquarium
- 62 liters
- Diet
- Missing
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Behavior
Water values
Smallest tank
Range
More about the species
Description
Inhabits steep gradient streams with numerous cascades and normally crystal clear water. Tends to congregate in pools at the base of small waterfalls where flow is rapid but is also found in quieter sections of streams and lakes. Prefers areas fully exposed to sunlight. Found in small, clear, swift-flowing streams, occasionally seen above high waterfalls. Also occurs in a lacustrine environment at the base of Edith Falls (Northern Territory). Feeds mainly on aquatic and terrestrial insects and their larvae, also on green algae. Sympatric with M. splendida australis. A good aquarium fish, typical of most rainbowfishes in this respect. Should probably be provided with more space and additional aeration than is usually recommended for fish of this size due to its fast swimming habits and affinity for well-oxygenated waters at the base of waterfalls and rapids.
Other names
In other languages
- Sahasateenkaarikala
Articles
All articles
How many fish can I keep?4 min read
Why "one cm of fish per liter" falls short, and what adult size, schools, territory and swimming zones mean for how many fish a tank can hold.
How to set up an aquarium from Australia and New Guinea4 min read
The home of rainbowfish: water, substrate, plants and light for rainbowfish, blue-eyes and peacock gudgeons, with a long aquarium and open water in the middle.
How to add new fish4 min read
From the store to the tank: how to get the fish used to your water, why you should add only a few at a time, and what to watch for in the first few days.
Quarantine for new fish3 min read
Why new fish should live in a tank of their own for a few weeks before they move in, what you need, and what to look for.