Bleheri Rainbowfish: Chilatherina bleheri – Vibrant New Guinea Native

The Bleheri Rainbowfish, scientifically known as Chilatherina bleheri, is a stunning freshwater fish native to Lake Holmes in West Papua, Indonesia. Its slender body, shimmering with blue, yellow, and red hues, creates a dazzling display in community aquariums.

Moreover, this peaceful schooling fish thrives in groups, making it an ideal choice for aquarists seeking a vibrant, active addition. Sourcing from captive-bred stocks is recommended due to its limited natural habitat.

Caring for Bleheri Rainbowfish

A tank of at least 100 litres suits the Bleheri Rainbowfish, featuring a fine gravel or sandy substrate, driftwood, and dense plants like Java fern or Vallisneria to mimic its lake environment. For instance, maintain water conditions with a pH of 6.5–8.0, a temperature of 24–28°C, and soft to moderately hard water. Additionally, moderate lighting and a secure tank lid are essential, as these active swimmers may jump.

Weekly 20–30% water changes and a moderate-flow filter ensure pristine water quality.

Ideal Tank Mates

This species flourishes in groups of six or more, showcasing vibrant colours and confident schooling behaviour. They pair well with peaceful fish like neon tetras, Kuhli loaches, or other rainbowfish species. However, avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species, such as large cichlids, to prevent stress. Furthermore, a spacious, planted tank with open swimming areas supports their active nature and enhances their display.

Feeding and Nutrition

As omnivores, these fish thrive on a varied diet to enhance their vivid colouration. For example, offer high-quality flakes or micropellets as a staple, supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms. Moreover, include plant-based foods such as spirulina flakes or blanched vegetables to ensure balanced nutrition. Feed small portions 2–3 times daily to avoid overfeeding and maintain tank cleanliness.

Breeding Bleheri Rainbowfish

Breeding the Bleheri Rainbowfish is achievable in a 100-litre tank with fine-leaved plants like Java moss or a spawning mop for egg scattering. Maintain water at 25–27°C and a pH of 6.8–7.5 to encourage spawning. After spawning, remove adults to protect the eggs, which hatch in 7–12 days. Consequently, fry should be fed infusoria or liquid fry food initially, transitioning to baby brine shrimp as they grow.

FAQs About Your Fish

What tank size is ideal for these fish?
A minimum of 100 litres is recommended for a school of six or more.

Can they live with other species?
Yes, with peaceful fish like tetras or loaches, but avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species.

What do these fish eat?
They eat flakes, micropellets, frozen foods like brine shrimp, and spirulina, fed 2–3 times daily.

Are these fish easy to breed?
Yes, with fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop, though fry need careful feeding with infusoria.

What water conditions do they need?
They require a pH of 6.5–8.0, temperatures of 24–28°C, and soft to moderately hard water.

Species Overview

The Bleheri Rainbowfish is a vibrant, hardy fish that elevates community aquariums with its iridescent hues and active schooling behaviour. Additionally, its adaptability and ease of care make it suitable for aquarists of all levels. Sourcing from reputable breeders supports conservation efforts for this species with a restricted natural range.

• Species: Chilatherina bleheri
• Common Name: Bleheri Rainbowfish
• Origin: Lake Holmes, West Papua, Indonesia
• Diet: Omnivorous
• pH Range: 6.5–8.0
• Temperature: 24–28°C
• Current Size: Approximately 4–5 cm
• Max Size: Approximately 8–10 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 100 litres
• Sex: Unsexed

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