Celebes Rainbowfish
Marosatherina ladigesi
Minimum Tank
20 Gallons
Adult Size
3 inches
Temperature
72-82°F (22-28°C)
pH Range
7.0-8.0
Lifespan
5 years
School Size
6+ fish
About Celebes Rainbowfish
The Celebes rainbowfish is a delicate, elegant species from the brackish estuaries and freshwater streams of Sulawesi (formerly Celebes), Indonesia. Its translucent, golden-olive body is accented by a prominent iridescent blue-green lateral stripe and distinctive elongated fin rays on the second dorsal and anal fins of males, which create an eye-catching sail-like appearance. Celebes rainbowfish are smaller and more delicate than most other rainbowfish species, reaching about 3 inches. They are peaceful, somewhat timid fish that do best in calm, well-planted tanks with other gentle species. Their subtle, ethereal beauty is best appreciated in a thoughtfully designed aquarium with appropriate lighting.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 20-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- • pH: 7.0 - 8.0
- • Category: Rainbowfish
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Celebes rainbowfish prefer slightly hard, alkaline water at 72-82°F and historically many keepers added a small amount of salt, though this is not strictly necessary for tank-bred specimens. Keep them in groups of at least six in a tank of 20 gallons or more with moderate flow and plenty of plants. They are timid and should be housed only with other peaceful species. Avoid boisterous tankmates that may outcompete them for food or cause stress. Feed quality micro-pellets, crushed flakes, and frozen foods like daphnia and baby brine shrimp. Males display their elongated fin rays during courtship. They are somewhat delicate compared to other rainbowfish and benefit from stable, consistent conditions.
Quick Facts
76L
Min Tank (20gal)
8cm
Adult Size (3")
5yr
Lifespan
6+
Min School
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Celebes Rainbowfish
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Tank Mates for Celebes Rainbowfish
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Otocinclus
Otocinclus sp.
moderate · 10+ gal
Celestial Pearl Danio
Danio margaritatus
moderate · 10+ gal
Ghost Shrimp
Palaemonetes paludosus
easy · 10+ gal
Silvertip Tetra
Hasemania nana
easy · 15+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other moderate-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Celebes Rainbowfish need?
A Celebes Rainbowfish needs a minimum tank size of 20 gallons (76 litres). They should be kept in schools of at least 6.
What water parameters does a Celebes Rainbowfish need?
Celebes Rainbowfish thrive in water between 72-82°F (22-28°C) with a pH of 7.0-8.0.
Are Celebes Rainbowfish easy to care for?
Celebes Rainbowfish are considered moderate to care for. They are peaceful fish with a lifespan of about 5 years.
How big do Celebes Rainbowfish get and what do they eat?
Celebes Rainbowfish reach about 3 inches and are omnivores. Celebes rainbowfish prefer slightly hard, alkaline water at 72-82°F and historically many keepers added a small amount of salt, though this is not strictly necessary for tank-bred specimens. Keep them in groups of at least six in a tank of 20 gallons or more with moderate flow and plenty of plants. They are timid and should be housed only with other peaceful species. Avoid boisterous tankmates that may outcompete them for food or cause stress. Feed quality micro-pellets, crushed flakes, and frozen foods like daphnia and baby brine shrimp. Males display their elongated fin rays during courtship. They are somewhat delicate compared to other rainbowfish and benefit from stable, consistent conditions.