Description
The Western Rainbowfish is generally easy to keep and suited for the beginner to intermediate aquarist. They are active swimmers and will occupy the mid level water column. Best kept in groups of 6 or more, and enjoys a spacious planted aquarium with good water quality and flow.
Males are larger and deeper bodied than females. Their colouration, particularly the fins and intensity of the mid-lateral stripe is highly variable. Colouration generally consists of 1-2 broad and dark mid-lateral stripes with a series of narrow longitudinal stripes of orange-red. The whole body has an overall sheen of iridescent purple or blue. Fins range from nearly colourless to deep red, or clear with red or green flecks.
The Western Rainbow Fish is native to rivers, streams and billabongs in the Pilbara & Kimberley region, Western Australia. This species is located in the Drysdale River.
Features of the Western Rainbow Fish:
- Tolerates broad water parameters
- Colours vary depending on geographical location
- Peaceful community fish
- Deep bodied
- Males are larger & more vibrant
Tank Mate Compatibility:
Western Rainbowfish are peaceful community fish that prefer to swim in groups of 6 or more. It is best to keep multiple females per male. They can also be kept with other peaceful community fish.
Here’s a list of some of the best tank mates for your Western Rainbowfish.
Feeding:
Western Rainbowfish are omnivores and will eat flake, small pellets, live, fresh, frozen, and freeze-dried. For optimal health, provide a variety of foods, which can include high-quality flake foods, brine shrimp, and any type of worms, as well as vegetable supplements and spirulina.
Western Rainbow fish have small throats, ensure food particles are not too large.
Equipment:
Aquarium:
Western Rainbowfish are best suited to a longer aquarium as they are active and energetic swimmers. An aquarium 4ft or larger is recommended. They are also well known jumpers, thus their aquarium should be well covered.
After an Aquarium for your fish? Browse our aquariums available here.
Heater:
Western Rainbowfish prefer water temperatures between 22 ⁰C - 28 ⁰C.
Looking for an aquarium heater? View available aquarium heaters here.
Lighting:
Western Rainbowfish are found in shaded rivers, creeks and streams located in Western Australia. They 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.
Need aquarium lighting? View available aquarium lighting here.
Filtration:
Western Rainbowfish will tolerate wide parameters however enjoy good water quality and flow. Ensure adequate filtration and flow in your aquarium.
Explore aquarium filtration products here.
Substrate:
Western Rainbowfish enjoy dark substrates that mimic their natural habitat.
View our range of aquarium substrates here.
Plants for Rainbowfish:
Western Rainbowfish enjoy spacious planted aquariums with medium to large plants, including floating plants. Plant out 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.
Decorations for Rainbowfish:
Rock & wood can be placed in the aquarium to mimic natural habitats and provide hiding locations to retreat to.
View our large range of aquarium decorations here.
