The Turquoise Rainbowfish is a breathtaking freshwater species known for its brilliant turquoise-blue body, iridescent silver highlights, and vibrant coloration that intensifies with maturity. Native to Lake Kutubu in Papua New Guinea, this elegant rainbowfish adds constant movement, shimmer, and color to larger community and planted aquariums.
Active, peaceful, and social, Turquoise Rainbowfish are ideal for aquarists looking to add a bold yet harmonious centerpiece schooling fish. When kept in groups, males display enhanced coloration and graceful swimming behavior, making them a true focal point in any aquarium.
Turquoise Rainbowfish are shipped at approximately 1.5–2 inches, a hardy juvenile size that adapts well to home aquariums. Adults reach an average size of 4–5 inches, making them best suited for medium to large aquariums.
These rainbowfish thrive in well-established aquariums with stable water conditions and ample swimming space. A planted tank with open areas, moderate water flow, and bright lighting helps bring out their natural coloration.
Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
pH: 7.0–8.0
GH: 8–20
Tank Size: 40+ gallons recommended
Turquoise Rainbowfish should be kept in groups of 6 or more to encourage natural schooling behavior and reduce stress.
Turquoise Rainbowfish are omnivorous and readily accept a wide range of foods. Offer high-quality flakes or pellets as a staple, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. A varied diet supports vibrant coloration and robust health.
These fish are peaceful but energetic, making them best suited with similarly sized community fish, including:
Other medium-sized rainbowfish
Larger tetras and barbs
Peaceful cichlids
Corydoras and plecos
Avoid housing with aggressive or very small, delicate species.
Scientific Name: Melanotaenia lacustris
Common Name: Turquoise Rainbowfish, Lake Kutubu Rainbowfish
Shipping Size: ~1.5–2 inches
Adult Size: ~4–5 inches
Temperament: Peaceful, active
Diet: Omnivore
Swimming Level: Mid to upper water
Schooling: Yes (6+ recommended)
Lifespan: 6–8 years
With their electric turquoise coloration, active schooling behavior, and hardy nature, Turquoise Rainbowfish are a standout addition to larger planted and community aquariums. When provided with proper space and care, they deliver constant motion and vibrant color that truly elevates any freshwater display.
The Turquoise Rainbowfish is a breathtaking freshwater species known for its brilliant turquoise-blue body, iridescent silver highlights, and vibrant coloration that intensifies with maturity. Native to Lake Kutubu in Papua New Guinea, this elegant rainbowfish adds constant movement, shimmer, and color to larger community and planted aquariums.
Active, peaceful, and social, Turquoise Rainbowfish are ideal for aquarists looking to add a bold yet harmonious centerpiece schooling fish. When kept in groups, males display enhanced coloration and graceful swimming behavior, making them a true focal point in any aquarium.
Turquoise Rainbowfish are shipped at approximately 1.5–2 inches, a hardy juvenile size that adapts well to home aquariums. Adults reach an average size of 4–5 inches, making them best suited for medium to large aquariums.
These rainbowfish thrive in well-established aquariums with stable water conditions and ample swimming space. A planted tank with open areas, moderate water flow, and bright lighting helps bring out their natural coloration.
Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
pH: 7.0–8.0
GH: 8–20
Tank Size: 40+ gallons recommended
Turquoise Rainbowfish should be kept in groups of 6 or more to encourage natural schooling behavior and reduce stress.
Turquoise Rainbowfish are omnivorous and readily accept a wide range of foods. Offer high-quality flakes or pellets as a staple, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. A varied diet supports vibrant coloration and robust health.
These fish are peaceful but energetic, making them best suited with similarly sized community fish, including:
Other medium-sized rainbowfish
Larger tetras and barbs
Peaceful cichlids
Corydoras and plecos
Avoid housing with aggressive or very small, delicate species.
Scientific Name: Melanotaenia lacustris
Common Name: Turquoise Rainbowfish, Lake Kutubu Rainbowfish
Shipping Size: ~1.5–2 inches
Adult Size: ~4–5 inches
Temperament: Peaceful, active
Diet: Omnivore
Swimming Level: Mid to upper water
Schooling: Yes (6+ recommended)
Lifespan: 6–8 years
With their electric turquoise coloration, active schooling behavior, and hardy nature, Turquoise Rainbowfish are a standout addition to larger planted and community aquariums. When provided with proper space and care, they deliver constant motion and vibrant color that truly elevates any freshwater display.
