Pacific Blue-eye

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Coastal rivers, tidal creeks, and mangrove swamps along the eastern coast of Australia. Euryhaline species.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Family Pseudomugilidae. Slender body, prominent blue eyes, and double dorsal fins. Grows up to 5 cm.

Social Behavior: Peaceful, energetic, and schooling. Males display to each other by raising and waving their elaborate dorsal and anal fins.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Translucent yellow-olive body. Males are larger with significantly longer, highly decorated dorsal and anal fins.

Aquarium Setup: Planted tank with open swimming areas. Use fine plants like java moss and floating vegetation to provide spawning sites.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivore. Feed crushed flakes, micro pellets, along with live or frozen artemia nauplii and daphnia.

Water Quality: Adaptable to fresh or light brackish conditions. High oxygen levels and stable neutral-to-alkaline pH are preferred.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Perfect for nano community tanks with other small rainbowfishes or dwarf shrimp. Avoid large companions.

Aquarium Breeding: Continuous spawner. Eggs are deposited on plants and hatch in 10 to 14 days. Fry require infusoria first.

Risks and Diseases: Jump hazard; ensure a tight lid is used. Sensitive to elevated nitrate levels and poor filtration.