Barred rainbowfish

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Widespread in the northern part of New Guinea (Sepik and Mamberamo rivers). Populates a wide range of habitats, from large turbid rivers to crystal clear rainforest streams.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Barred Rainbowfish (Chilatherina fasciata). Among the largest Rainbowfish (reaches 14 cm / 5.5 inches). High, compressed body and tapered snout. There are numerous geographic color variants.

Social Behavior: Gregarious fish with inexhaustible energy. Forms hierarchical schools. Adult males perform complex ritual dances showing a "blaze" (reflected light) on the nape, rarely injuring themselves.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Very variable depending on the population (e.g. "Kali Tami", "Mamberamo"). They typically feature discontinuous vertical black stripes (fasciata) on the lower half, with bronze, blue or yellow reflections. Grayish, thinner females.

Aquarium Setup: Requires considerable volumes (120-150 cm / 48-60 inches tank) due to size and speed. The best layout is a stony river with strong currents (movement pumps), some mighty roots and huge free spaces.

Diet and Feeding: Markedly omnivorous with a predilection for plant material (algae and aquatic plants in nature). Provide quality spirulina-based flakes, blanched spinach, freeze-dried and dried insects on the surface.

Water Quality: Very tolerant to variations, although it does its best in alkaline (pH 7.0-8.5) and moderately hard (GH 8-15) waters. Intolerant to ammonia, requires powerful filters given the abundant feeding needed.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Excellent community fish for large aquariums. Coexists peacefully with calm Central American Cichlids, large barbs, Garra and giant rainbowfish (e.g. Melanotaenia trifasciata).

Aquarium Reproduction: They mate in the morning near moss or roots. They release very few eggs at a time (2-5 a day) over a long period. The larvae almost always develop on the surface, exposed to predation if not protected.

Risks and Diseases: In tanks less than a meter (40 inches) in length they become lethargic or aggressive due to confinement stress, resulting in the collapse of immune defenses and the appearance of bacterial ulcers.