Overview

A colourful northern Australian rainbowfish. Adults can reach 12–15cm; juveniles develop stronger colours and deeper bodies as they mature. Colour varies by population.

Scientific name: Melanotaenia trifasciata

Behaviour

Keep at least eight, ideally a mixed-sex shoal. Males display naturally in a group. Their speed can unsettle shy or slow-feeding fish.

Tank Size

Our recommended minimum is 250 litres with a 120 × 45cm base for a shoal. A longer 150cm aquarium is preferable for larger groups or a busy community.

These are adult housing recommendations; choose more space when adding tank mates. Allow for space occupied by substrate and décor when comparing aquarium capacities.

Compatibility

Use similarly active, peaceful companions with matching water needs. Avoid timid small fish, slow ornamental bettas and species needing very soft acidic water.

Diet

Offer quality omnivore flakes or pellets with small frozen or live foods for variety. Feed in small amounts at more than one point so all fish get a share.

Care

• Temperature: 26–29°C
• pH: 7.0–8.0
• General hardness: 8–20 dGH

Plant the sides and back while retaining open swimming length. Fit a secure lid and maintain good oxygenation. Do not keep very different locality forms together if preserving a breeding line is important.

Add only to a fully cycled aquarium. Keep ammonia and nitrite at 0mg/l. Start with a 25–30% weekly water change using dechlorinated, temperature-matched water and adjust to test results and stocking. Rinse biological filter media in removed aquarium water rather than under the tap.

Live Animals Are Click and Collect Only. You can order online, choose click and collect, and we will hold your order for collection in store.