Inornate rainbowfish - Melanotaenia splendida inornata

Scientific name: Melanotaenia splendida inornata

Common name: Inornate rainbowfish

Family: Melanotaeniidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 12 - 15 cm (4.72 - 5.91 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 8 - 12°N (142.86 - 214.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 24 - 30 °C (75.2 - 86°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

Although Inornate rainbowfish is classed as a carnivore, it will accept all foods offered in the aquarium. Quality flakes should be the staple diet with the addition of blood worm and brine shrimp.

Origin

Australia; Inornate rainbowfish is to be found in the river systems of the Northern Territory and Queensland.

Sexing

The males will have an extended dorsal fin, as they mature they will evolve a sloping forehead with a deeper body. The females tend to be smaller with less coloration.

Breeding

Getting these fish to breed is easy; the hard part is to raise the fry. Add spawning mops to the tank, once the eggs are laid remove the mops to another tank. When the eggs have hatched the fry will be very small, initially feed them on Infusoria or vinegar eels. Growth will be slow, but once they have grown on a bit they can be offered crushed flake.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Melanotaenia splendida inornata is 5 years.

Short description

It is advisable to keep 2 males to several females. This will bring out the best colors from the fish. Melanotaenia splendida inornata are not fussy about water parameters but do require clean water.

Picture

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.