Description
Also known as the Barred Rainbow, this species occurs in a wide range of geographic colour varieties across northern New Guinea. The Chameleon form displays a wide range of colours, depending on its mood. Ideal for large planted aquaria with open swimming space. It is generally easy to keep and suited for the beginner aquarist.
They are active swimmers and prefer to be kept in shoals of 6 or more in planted yet spacious aquariums. This species is native to Papua New Guinea.
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Features of Chameleon Rainbowfish:
- Body colour of bluish-grey to greenish-brown on the upper half and silver-grey or whitish on the lower half
- Dark mid lateral stripe
- Peaceful community fish with fish of similar size & temperament
- Males have a deeper body than females
- A larger Rainbowfish species reaching 10-12cm
Tank Mate Compatibility:
Chameleon Rainbowfish are peaceful community fish that prefer to swim in groups of 6 or more. Best kept in a ratio of one male to two females. They can also be kept with other peaceful community fish and Rainbowfish of similar size.
Here’s a list of some of the best tank mates for your Chameleon Rainbowfish.
Diet:
Chameleon Rainbowfish are omnivore's. They feed on algae and spirulina based foods. Fresh vegetables such as lettuce, kale, zucchini and cucumber can be provided as well as protein rich foods such as high-quality flake foods and small pellets. For healthy fish, ensure a varied diet. This species enjoy live foods such as bloodworms, blackworms and brine shrimp.
Check out our extensive range of aquarium fish foods.
The Best Aquarium Size for Chameleon Rainbowfish:
Best suited to a longer aquarium as they are active and energetic swimmers. An aquarium 3ft or larger is recommended. They are also well known jumpers, thus their aquarium should be well covered.
Check out these suitable aquarium brands:
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Chameleon Rainbowfish Tank Setup:
Aquarium Filtration for Axelrods Rainbowfish
A good filtration system is necessary as they enjoy clean and clear waters with a moderate flow rate. Ensure your filter has an adequate flow rate to effectively remove waste from the aquarium.
Shop our comprehensive range of aquarium filters here.
Aquarium Heater for Chameleon Rainbowfish
This fish enjoy temperatures between 26 - 28° C. If you are unable to maintain this temperature naturally, use an aquarium heater. Aquarium heaters also stabilize water temperatures. A thermometer is recommended to monitor the water temperature.
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Aquarium Lighting for Chameleon Rainbowfish
Chameleon Rainbowfish are happiest in a dimly lit environment. We recommend LED aquarium lighting with adjustable brightness to ensure the light level can be altered for happy fish. If using moderate regular lighting, broad leaf and floating aquarium plants can offer shaded areas.
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Substrate for Chameleon Rainbowfish
Chameleon Rainbowfish enjoy dark substrates that mimic their natural habitat. Aquarium gravel and sand is suitable.
View our range of aquarium substrates here.
Aquarium Plants for Chameleon Rainbowfish
Chameleon Rainbowfish prefer spacious planted aquariums with medium to large plants, including floating plants. Plant the background with tall growing plants, leaving the foreground an open space for swimming.
Interested in live plants for your aquarium? View our range of live aquarium plants here.
Aquarium Decorations Chameleon Rainbowfish
Rock & wood can be placed in the aquarium to mimic natural habitats and provide hiding locations to retreat to and reduce stress. Rainbowfish that are less stressed show brighter colours.
View our large range of aquarium decorations here.
