Celebes rainbowfish - Marosatherina ladigesi
Scientific name: Marosatherina ladigesi
Common name: Celebes rainbowfish
Family: Telmatherinidae
Usual size in fish tanks: 6 - 7 cm (2.36 - 2.76 inch)
014
Recommended pH range: 7 - 8
Recommended water hardness: 10 - 20°N (178.57 - 357.14ppm)
0°C 32°F30°C 86°F
Recommended temperature range: 25 - 28 °C (77 - 82.4°F)
The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning
Where the species comes from: Oceania
Temperament to its own species: peaceful
Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful
Usual place in the tank: Middle levels
Overview
Marosatherina ladigesi, commonly known as the Celebes Rainbowfish, is a delicate and elegant species endemic to Sulawesi (Celebes), Indonesia. Slender and translucent with shimmering blue-green hues and extended fin filaments in males, this fish is highly prized but demands stable, pristine water conditions.
Care & Tank Setup
- Group size: Keep in groups of 6 or more. Though not a true schooling fish, they display better color and confidence in company.
- Tank: Minimum 80–100 l with length ≥ 80 cm; provide open swimming space plus dense planting and shaded areas.
- Water: pH 7.0–8.0, hardness 10–20 °dGH, temperature 25–28 °C (77–82 °F). Sensitive to fluctuations; soft, slightly alkaline water is preferred.
- Aquascape: Plant-rich tank with floating vegetation, fine-leaved plants, and driftwood. Gentle filtration with stable flow and high oxygenation.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous but prefers small, protein-rich live or frozen fare.
- Staples: High-quality flakes or micro-pellets formulated for small omnivorous fish.
- Live/frozen: Baby brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, cyclops. Supplement with spirulina or blanched peas for balance.
- Avoid large or tough foods, as their small mouths are adapted for tiny prey.
Sexing
Males are more vividly colored and develop elongated dorsal and anal fin filaments. Females are smaller, with shorter fins and paler coloration.
Breeding
An egg scatterer that deposits adhesive eggs among fine plants or spawning mops. Conditioning with live foods stimulates spawning. After eggs are laid, remove adults to prevent predation. Eggs hatch in 5–10 days, and fry should be fed infusoria or powdered fry food before graduating to freshly hatched brine shrimp. Growth is fast under good conditions.
Lifespan
With optimal care, Celebes Rainbowfish typically live for 4–5 years.
Origin
Endemic to the freshwater streams and coastal estuaries of Sulawesi (Celebes), Indonesia. Also reported in parts of the Philippines, though populations there may be introduced.
Short Description
A shimmering, graceful species best suited to experienced aquarists due to its water sensitivity. Thrives in stable, planted aquaria with excellent filtration. Best kept in groups where males display fin extensions and colors more vividly.
At-a-Glance (Care Box)
- Size: 6–7 cm
- Temperament: Peaceful; best in groups
- pH: 7.0–8.0 | GH: 10–20 °dGH
- Temp: 25–28 °C (77–82 °F)
- Tank: 80–100 l+, well-planted with open space
- Diet: Omnivore; small live/frozen foods, quality flakes
- Breeding: Egg scatterer; remove parents after spawning
- Lifespan: 4–5 years
Pictures
Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.
