Ruby rainbowfish - Melanotaenia splendida rubrostriata

Scientific name: Melanotaenia splendida rubrostriata

Common name: Ruby 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: 5.6 - 7.8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 7 - 12°N (125 - 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

Overview

The Ruby Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia splendida rubrostriata) is a vibrant, peaceful freshwater species known for its shimmering colors and active swimming behavior. Native to Papua New Guinea and the Aru Islands of Indonesia, these rainbowfish are ideal for community tanks due to their gentle nature and striking appearance.

Origin and Natural Habitat

Ruby Rainbowfish are native to the clear, slow-moving rivers and streams of Papua New Guinea and the Aru Islands in Indonesia. Their natural habitat is rich in submerged vegetation, providing both shelter and breeding grounds.

Appearance and Size

These fish display brilliant ruby-red hues with iridescent stripes that shimmer under aquarium lighting. Males are typically more colorful and have deeper bodies than females. In aquariums, they grow to about 12-15 cm (4.72-5.91 inches).

Tank Requirements

Tank Size: A minimum of 150 liters (40 gallons) is recommended, as they are active swimmers and thrive in spacious environments.
Water Parameters:

pH: 5.6 - 7.8
Water Hardness: 7 - 12°N (125 - 214 ppm)
Temperature: 24 - 30°C (75.2 - 86°F)

Tank Setup: Include a mix of planted areas and open swimming spaces. They prefer slightly acidic water with a gentle current. Use fine-leaved plants and floating vegetation to provide shelter and reduce light intensity.

Temperament and Tank Mates

Ruby Rainbowfish are peaceful and thrive in community tanks with other gentle species. Suitable tank mates include tetras, rasboras, guppies, mollies, Corydoras catfish, and other peaceful rainbowfish species. Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping fish, such as tiger barbs or larger cichlids, as they may stress or harm the Ruby Rainbowfish.

They are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six, with a recommended ratio of 2-3 females per male to prevent territorial disputes among males and promote natural behaviors.

Feeding and Diet

Ruby Rainbowfish are omnivorous and will accept a wide variety of foods:

High-quality flake and small pellet foods as a staple diet
Live or frozen foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp to enhance coloration
Occasional vegetable matter like blanched spinach or spirulina-based foods

Feed them small amounts multiple times a day to keep them active and healthy.

Sexing

Males are more colorful with deeper, more robust bodies compared to females. Females tend to be slightly smaller and display more subdued coloration.

Breeding

Breeding Ruby Rainbowfish is relatively straightforward with the right setup:

Keep them in groups, as they breed better in social environments.
Provide spawning mops or fine-leaved plants as spawning sites.
After spawning, move the mops to a separate tank to protect the eggs.
Eggs hatch in about a week. Feed the fry infusoria until they grow large enough to accept newly hatched brine shrimp or crushed flake.

Lifespan

With proper care, Ruby Rainbowfish can live up to 5 years in a well-maintained aquarium.

Conclusion

The Ruby Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia splendida rubrostriata) is a stunning and peaceful addition to any community aquarium. Their vibrant colors and active schooling behavior make them a favorite among aquarists. With the right environment, diet, and companions, these fish will thrive and bring life and beauty to your tank.