The Alleni “Wapoga” Rainbowfish, a rare and highly sought-after species from the Wapoga River region of Papua, is known for its brilliant iridescence, striking body shape, and peaceful demeanor. As juveniles (shipped at ~0.5–1.5 inches), these fish begin to show flashes of their adult beauty — shimmering shades of blue, green, and gold that intensify with age, quality food, and good lighting.
Like many Melanotaenia, these rainbowfish are active schoolers, best kept in groups of 6 or more to fully express their colors and natural behavior. Despite their rarity in the hobby, they are hardy, peaceful, and community-friendly, making them a great choice for intermediate hobbyists and serious rainbowfish enthusiasts alike.
Scientific Name: Chilatherina alleni "Wapoga"
Common Name: Alleni Rainbowfish, Wapoga Rainbow
Size Shipped: ~0.5–1.5 inches (juveniles)
Adult Size: ~3.5–4 inches
Temperament: Peaceful, social, active
Lifespan: 5+ years
Swimming Level: Mid to top
Origin: Tank-raised from wild lineage
Temperature: 74°F – 80°F (23°C – 27°C)
pH: 6.8 – 7.8
GH: 8 – 14
KH: 3 – 8
Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum (preferably larger for schools)
Tank Setup: Open swimming space with plants along the sides and back
Filtration: Moderate to strong flow with excellent oxygenation
✔ Stunning iridescent body with metallic hues
✔ Rare in the hobby – a standout species for collectors
✔ Peaceful and compatible with most community fish
✔ Hardy and long-lived with proper care
✔ Great centerpiece fish for planted tanks or biotopes
High-quality flakes or micro pellets
Live/frozen foods: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms
Occasional veggie-based or spirulina-rich foods
Feed 1–2 times daily in small, manageable portions
The Alleni “Wapoga” Rainbowfish is a brilliant, uncommon addition to any planted or community aquarium. Their active schooling behavior, metallic shimmer, and peaceful personality make them a true gem for aquarists looking to showcase rare and vibrant freshwater fish.
The Alleni “Wapoga” Rainbowfish, a rare and highly sought-after species from the Wapoga River region of Papua, is known for its brilliant iridescence, striking body shape, and peaceful demeanor. As juveniles (shipped at ~0.5–1.5 inches), these fish begin to show flashes of their adult beauty — shimmering shades of blue, green, and gold that intensify with age, quality food, and good lighting.
Like many Melanotaenia, these rainbowfish are active schoolers, best kept in groups of 6 or more to fully express their colors and natural behavior. Despite their rarity in the hobby, they are hardy, peaceful, and community-friendly, making them a great choice for intermediate hobbyists and serious rainbowfish enthusiasts alike.
Scientific Name: Chilatherina alleni "Wapoga"
Common Name: Alleni Rainbowfish, Wapoga Rainbow
Size Shipped: ~0.5–1.5 inches (juveniles)
Adult Size: ~3.5–4 inches
Temperament: Peaceful, social, active
Lifespan: 5+ years
Swimming Level: Mid to top
Origin: Tank-raised from wild lineage
Temperature: 74°F – 80°F (23°C – 27°C)
pH: 6.8 – 7.8
GH: 8 – 14
KH: 3 – 8
Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum (preferably larger for schools)
Tank Setup: Open swimming space with plants along the sides and back
Filtration: Moderate to strong flow with excellent oxygenation
✔ Stunning iridescent body with metallic hues
✔ Rare in the hobby – a standout species for collectors
✔ Peaceful and compatible with most community fish
✔ Hardy and long-lived with proper care
✔ Great centerpiece fish for planted tanks or biotopes
High-quality flakes or micro pellets
Live/frozen foods: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms
Occasional veggie-based or spirulina-rich foods
Feed 1–2 times daily in small, manageable portions
The Alleni “Wapoga” Rainbowfish is a brilliant, uncommon addition to any planted or community aquarium. Their active schooling behavior, metallic shimmer, and peaceful personality make them a true gem for aquarists looking to showcase rare and vibrant freshwater fish.
