Neon Dwarf Rainbowfish - Melanotaenia Praecox

A large shoal of iridescent Neon Rainbowfish gracing a planted community aquarium creates a wonderful, eye-catching display. 

Males are more colourful with redder finnage, also becoming deeper bodied with age. Females with orange-yellow finnage trimmed with silver.

Known Names:

Rhombatractus Praecox

Origin: 


Middle reaches of the Mamberamo River in northern Irian Jaya.

Diet: 

Flake, micropellets, small frozen foods such as mosquito larvae, daphnia, brineshrimp etc.

Tank Mates: 


Best maintained in groups of at least 6 specimens, they will add activity and colour to the top and middle levels of the tank. Do not keep with large boisterous species.

Behavioural Traits:

Perfectly peaceful with other species and will not eat plants; an ideal community aquarium candidate. 

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 22 -28°C
• pH: 6-8
• dH: up to 15 degrees