Description
A critically endangered dwarf sized rainbowfish found on the Atherton Tablelands of northern Queensland. The fish is named due to its restricted distribution in the headwater streams of the North Johnstone River in the Malanda district. Found in cooler waters that are fast flowing. During the breeding season the colours intensify.
They are active swimmers and prefer to be kept in shoals of 6 or more in planted yet spacious aquariums.
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Features of Malanda Gold Rainbowfish:
- Males are brownish-golden with narrow orange to brown stripes along the body
- Females are silvery-brown with paler orange-brown stripes along the body
- Males are much brighter and deeper bodied than females
- Peaceful community fish with fish of similar size & temperament
- Smaller rainbowfish species - grows to 5-6cm
Tank Mate Compatibility:
Malanda Gold 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:
Diet:
Malanda Gold Rainbowfish are omnivore's. Feed 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. They also feed on algae and spirulina based foods. Fresh vegetables such as lettuce, kale, zucchini and cucumber can be provided.
Check out our extensive range of aquarium fish foods.
The Best Aquarium Size for Malanda Gold 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:
After an Aquarium for your fish? Browse Aquarium Tank Selection here.
Malanda Gold Rainbowfish Tank Setup:
Aquarium Filtration for Malanda Gold Rainbowfish
A good filtration system is necessary as they enjoy clean and clear waters with a moderate to fast flow rate with area's of decreased flow for rest. 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 Malanda Gold Rainbowfish
This fish enjoy temperatures between 20 - 26° 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 Malanda Gold Rainbowfish
Malanda Gold 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.
Need aquarium lighting? View available aquarium lighting here.
Substrate for Malanda Gold Rainbowfish
Malanda Gold 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 Malanda Gold Rainbowfish
Malanda Gold 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 Malanda Gold 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.
*Images used with permission
