Yakati rainbowfish - Melanotaenia angfa

Scientific name: Melanotaenia angfa

Common name: Yakati rainbowfish

Family: Melanotaeniidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 11 - 13 cm (4.33 - 5.12 inch)

014

Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 12 - 18°N (214.29 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 24 - 26 °C (75.2 - 78.8°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: Top levels

Overview

The Yakati Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia angfa) is a rare and lesser-known species of rainbowfish native to the mountain streams of New Guinea. These peaceful, top-level swimmers thrive in well-oxygenated water and prefer being kept in small groups. Although not as common in the aquarium trade as other rainbowfish, they are highly valued by enthusiasts for their vibrant coloration and active behavior.

Food and Feeding

Yakati Rainbowfish are omnivorous and will readily accept a variety of foods. A balanced diet should include:

• Staple diet: High-quality flake food or small pellets.
• Live or frozen foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia once or twice a week for added nutrition.
• Vegetable matter: Supplement their diet with spirulina or blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini.

Origin

The Yakati Rainbowfish is found in the pristine mountain streams of New Guinea. These habitats feature clean, well-oxygenated water with moderate currents, dense aquatic vegetation, and shaded areas provided by overhanging trees.

Sexing

Sexing Yakati Rainbowfish remains challenging due to limited available data. However, like most rainbowfish, males may develop brighter coloration and a more elongated dorsal fin as they mature.

Breeding

There are no confirmed reports of successful breeding of Melanotaenia angfa in home aquariums. However, based on the breeding behavior of related species, the following conditions may encourage spawning:

• Breeding Tank Setup: Use a 10-15 gallon (~38-57 liters) tank with soft, slightly acidic water. Provide spawning mops or dense vegetation to mimic natural egg-laying sites.
• Water Conditions: Maintain a temperature of 24-26°C (75.2-78.8°F) with stable parameters.
• Egg Management: Once the eggs are laid, remove the spawning mop or relocate the eggs to a separate tank to protect them from being eaten.
• Fry Care: Newly hatched fry are extremely small and should be fed Infusoria until they are large enough to consume baby brine shrimp.

Lifespan

Although limited data is available, Melanotaenia angfa is believed to have a lifespan of 10 years under optimal aquarium conditions.

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: A minimum of 100 liters (26 gallons) is recommended for a small group.
• Water Parameters:
• pH: 6.5 - 7.5
• Water Hardness: 12 - 18°N (214.29 - 321.43 ppm)
• Temperature: 24 - 26°C (75.2 - 78.8°F)
• Tank Setup: Provide ample swimming space with a combination of driftwood, plants, and rocky structures. Use a gentle filtration system to maintain clean, well-oxygenated water.

Temperament and Tank Mates

Yakati Rainbowfish are peaceful schooling fish that thrive when kept in groups of at least 6 individuals. They coexist well with other similarly sized, non-aggressive species such as:

• Other rainbowfish (e.g., Boesemani, Red Irian)
• Peaceful barbs and danios
• Small to medium-sized tetras
• Corydoras catfish

Tankmates to avoid: Large or aggressive species, such as cichlids or fin-nipping fish, as they may stress the Yakati Rainbowfish.

Short Description

Although Yakati Rainbowfish are not widely available in the aquarium hobby, they are a fascinating species for those who enjoy keeping rare rainbowfish. Their active swimming behavior, peaceful temperament, and preference for clean, well-maintained water make them an excellent addition to community tanks.