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

The Goldie River Rainbowfish is an omnivore and will readily accept a variety of foods. A well-balanced diet should include:

• High-quality flake or pellet food as the main diet
• Occasional treats of live or frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia
• Vegetable matter, such as spirulina flakes or blanched greens

Feeding them a varied diet ensures they remain healthy and display their most vibrant colors.

Origin

The Goldie River Rainbowfish is native to the river systems of New Guinea, where they inhabit clear, fast-flowing waters with abundant vegetation.

Tank Setup and Requirements

To provide a suitable environment, consider the following tank setup:

• Minimum tank size: 100 liters (26 gallons) for a small group
• Water parameters:
• pH: 7.0 - 8.0
• Hardness: 8 - 16°N (142.86 - 285.71 ppm)
• Temperature: 24 - 28°C (75.2 - 82.4°F)
• Filtration: A strong filter is recommended to replicate their natural fast-flowing habitat.
• Tank decor: Provide a mix of open swimming space and plants like Java moss or Limnophila sessiliflora for hiding spots.

Sexing

Sexing these fish is relatively straightforward:

• Males: Display brighter colors and have an elongated first dorsal fin that overlaps the second.
• Females: Are smaller and have less pronounced coloration.

Breeding

Breeding Goldie River Rainbowfish is relatively easy, but the fry require special care.

• Spawning Conditions: Slightly alkaline water with stable parameters.
• Breeding Setup: Add Java moss or spawning mops to the tank to provide a surface for egg deposition.
• Egg Care: The female will scatter eggs among the plants. Once spawning is complete, remove the parents to prevent them from eating the eggs.
• Incubation: The eggs hatch in about one week.
• Feeding Fry: Newly hatched fry should be fed on Infusoria. As they grow, introduce newly hatched brine shrimp and finely crushed flakes.

Lifespan

With proper care, Goldie River Rainbowfish can live between 5 to 8 years.

Short Description

Goldie River Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia goldiei) are highly active and peaceful fish. They thrive in groups and require plenty of open swimming space. Their adaptability to a range of water conditions makes them an excellent choice for community tanks. However, maintaining clean water and a proper diet is essential for their well-being.

Picture

Photo © Neil Armstrong. This image was sourced from http://rainbowfish.angfaqld.org.au/Goldiei.htm with permission on February 16, 2011. Special thanks to Adrian!