Goldie river rainbowfish - Melanotaenia goldiei

Scientific name: Melanotaenia goldiei

Common name: Goldie river rainbowfish

Family: Melanotaeniidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 11 - 12 cm (4.33 - 4.72 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 7 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 8 - 16°N (142.86 - 285.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 24 - 28 °C (75.2 - 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

Food and feeding

As with all rainbow fish these are omnivorous, they will accept all quality flakes and pellets. Treat them with blood worm and brine shrimp once per week.

Origin

Asia/Oceania; Goldie river rainbowfish are found in the river systems of New Guinea.

Sexing

Mature males will display much brighter colors than the females. Their first dorsal fin will also overlap the second, with females there is no overlapping.

Breeding

Add java moss or spawning mops to the breeding tank. Slightly alkaline water is much preferred, and when ready the females will scatter their eggs around the moss or mops. Once the eggs have all been laid, remove the parents and cover the tank over to emit most of the light. The eggs should hatch after one week and the free swimming fry should be fed on Infusoria initially, as they grow newly hatched brine shrimp can be offered.

Lifespan

The expected life span of Goldie river rainbowfish is 5-8 years.

Short description

Melanotaenia goldiei are a very peaceful species of fish but they are also very active. Open swimming spaces are required in the tank and they must be kept in small groups.

Picture

photo© Neil Armstrong; Picture taken from http://rainbowfish.angfaqld.org.au/Goldiei.htm with permission on February 16th 2011. Thanks to Adrian!