Turquoise Rainbowfish
Melanotaenia lacustris
Minimum Tank
30 Gallons
Adult Size
4 inches
Temperature
72-77°F (22-25°C)
pH Range
7.0-8.0
Lifespan
8 years
School Size
6+ fish
About Turquoise Rainbowfish
The turquoise rainbowfish is a vibrantly colored species from the Lake Kutubu region of Papua New Guinea. Males develop a stunning turquoise to blue-green body coloring with contrasting orange or yellow-edged fins and a distinctive bright band running horizontally through the upper body. They are medium-sized rainbowfish that reach about 4 inches and display the active, social behavior characteristic of the group. Turquoise rainbowfish are enthusiastic display fish, with males performing elaborate fin-flashing courtship rituals each morning at dawn. Their vivid coloring and dynamic social behavior make them one of the most desirable rainbowfish species for larger community aquariums.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 30-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 72-77°F (22-25°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
Turquoise rainbowfish need a tank of at least 40 gallons with open swimming space and moderate to strong filtration. Keep them in groups of at least six in slightly alkaline, moderately hard water at 72-77°F. They are active swimmers that appreciate current and well-oxygenated water. Males show their best coloring in the presence of females and rival males. Feed quality flakes, pellets, and frozen foods to maintain their vivid turquoise coloring. They are generally peaceful but males can become boisterous during display. Pair them with similarly sized, active community fish. Morning is the best time to observe their spectacular courtship displays.
Quick Facts
114L
Min Tank (30gal)
10cm
Adult Size (4")
8yr
Lifespan
6+
Min School
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Turquoise Rainbowfish
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Tank Mates for Turquoise Rainbowfish
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Rubber Lip Pleco
Chaetostoma sp.
moderate · 20+ gal
Otocinclus
Otocinclus sp.
moderate · 10+ gal
Madagascar Rainbowfish
Bedotia geayi
moderate · 40+ gal
Balloon Molly
Poecilia sphenops var.
moderate · 20+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other moderate-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Turquoise Rainbowfish need?
A Turquoise Rainbowfish needs a minimum tank size of 30 gallons (114 litres). They should be kept in schools of at least 6.
What water parameters does a Turquoise Rainbowfish need?
Turquoise Rainbowfish thrive in water between 72-77°F (22-25°C) with a pH of 7.0-8.0.
Are Turquoise Rainbowfish easy to care for?
Turquoise Rainbowfish are considered moderate to care for. They are peaceful fish with a lifespan of about 8 years.
How big do Turquoise Rainbowfish get and what do they eat?
Turquoise Rainbowfish reach about 4 inches and are omnivores. Turquoise rainbowfish need a tank of at least 40 gallons with open swimming space and moderate to strong filtration. Keep them in groups of at least six in slightly alkaline, moderately hard water at 72-77°F. They are active swimmers that appreciate current and well-oxygenated water. Males show their best coloring in the presence of females and rival males. Feed quality flakes, pellets, and frozen foods to maintain their vivid turquoise coloring. They are generally peaceful but males can become boisterous during display. Pair them with similarly sized, active community fish. Morning is the best time to observe their spectacular courtship displays.