Madagascar Rainbowfish
Bedotia geayi
Minimum Tank
40 Gallons
Adult Size
6 inches
Temperature
72-77°F (22-25°C)
pH Range
7.0-7.5
Lifespan
5 years
School Size
6+ fish
About Madagascar Rainbowfish
The Madagascar rainbowfish is one of the most colorful freshwater fish from the island of Madagascar, found in clear, flowing streams and rivers on the eastern side of the island. Males are spectacular, with iridescent silver-blue bodies that flash with green and purple highlights, complemented by vivid red fins. Females are less colorful with olive-silver bodies. Madagascar rainbowfish are active, peaceful schoolers that reach about 6 inches and need spacious tanks to display their full beauty. They are relatively uncommon in the hobby compared to other rainbowfish, partly due to their remote origin and partly because wild populations face significant threats from habitat loss and introduced species on Madagascar.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 40-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 72-77°F (22-25°C)
- • pH: 7.0 - 7.5
- • 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
Madagascar rainbowfish need a spacious tank of at least 55 gallons with moderate to strong current and excellent water quality. They prefer slightly alkaline water at 72-77°F with good oxygenation. Keep them in groups of at least six for the best schooling behavior and male displays. Feed quality flakes, pellets, and frozen foods. They are active swimmers that need open space alongside planted areas. Madagascar rainbowfish are generally peaceful but their activity level may stress very timid species. Due to conservation concerns, always choose captive-bred specimens. They are somewhat more demanding than other rainbowfish and best suited for experienced keepers who can provide stable conditions.
Quick Facts
151L
Min Tank (40gal)
15cm
Adult Size (6")
5yr
Lifespan
6+
Min School
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Madagascar Rainbowfish
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Tank Mates for Madagascar Rainbowfish
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Red Irian Rainbowfish
Glossolepis incisus
moderate · 55+ gal
Turquoise Rainbowfish
Melanotaenia lacustris
moderate · 30+ gal
Denison Barb
Sahyadria denisonii
moderate · 55+ gal
Rubber Lip Pleco
Chaetostoma sp.
moderate · 20+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other moderate-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Madagascar Rainbowfish need?
A Madagascar Rainbowfish needs a minimum tank size of 40 gallons (151 litres). They should be kept in schools of at least 6.
What water parameters does a Madagascar Rainbowfish need?
Madagascar Rainbowfish thrive in water between 72-77°F (22-25°C) with a pH of 7.0-7.5.
Are Madagascar Rainbowfish easy to care for?
Madagascar Rainbowfish are considered moderate to care for. They are peaceful fish with a lifespan of about 5 years.
How big do Madagascar Rainbowfish get and what do they eat?
Madagascar Rainbowfish reach about 6 inches and are omnivores. Madagascar rainbowfish need a spacious tank of at least 55 gallons with moderate to strong current and excellent water quality. They prefer slightly alkaline water at 72-77°F with good oxygenation. Keep them in groups of at least six for the best schooling behavior and male displays. Feed quality flakes, pellets, and frozen foods. They are active swimmers that need open space alongside planted areas. Madagascar rainbowfish are generally peaceful but their activity level may stress very timid species. Due to conservation concerns, always choose captive-bred specimens. They are somewhat more demanding than other rainbowfish and best suited for experienced keepers who can provide stable conditions.