Rainbow – Dubouylayi Yellow-Oyster creek (Melanotaenia duboulayi ) 5cm

The Crimson Spotted Rainbow comes from the eastern coastal drainage systems of northern New South Wales and southern Queensland, Australia. They are a subtropical species found in relatively still, clear water, in water temperatures between 11-34°C. Habitat includes freshwater rivers, streams, billabongs, reservoirs, swamps, and lagoons with dense aquatic vegetation. Their natural environment is subjected to seasonal variations with water temperature, pH and hardness levels varying considerably.

The Crimson Spotted Rainbow are omnivores and are opportunistic feeders in the wild, with a natural diet of small crustaceans, insects, and some vegetation. In captivity, they should be given a high quality diet to encourage good colouration. A mix of live and processed foods is necessary for optimal health.

Buy processed foods in small amounts and frequently, as the nutritional value of these products quickly deteriorates past usefulness. Crimson Spotted Rainbows relish live food like bloodworms and brine shrimp and the like. If these are unavailable, frozen (defrosted) substitutes would be fine.

Rainbowfish are not exceptionally difficult to care for provided their water is kept clean. At least 25 – 50% of the tank water should be replaced weekly, especially if the tank is densely stocked. They are very active swimmers so a tank at least 80cm long is necessary. They are also jumpers so be sure the tank has a secure cover.

The Crimson Spotted Rainbows do fine in a larger fish community aquarium of similarly sized fish, but do exceptionally well in a geographical tank stocked with other rainbows. Although generally non-aggressive, overly aggressive or very shy tank mates will make bullies out of them. Mix them with other playful but good natured fish for best results. You may notice some chasing between rainbows, but this is rarely a concern unless a fish is injured, has nowhere to hide, or is constantly harassed (usually a result of one of the first two).

Crimson Spotted Rainbows are schooling fish and the ratio of males to females is very important to keep a reasonable peace among them. Although you can always keep single sex schools, you will see significantly better colouration if both genders are in the tank.

• Species – Melanotaenia duboulayi
• Common Name – Crimson Spotted Rainbow
• Origin – northern New South Wales and southern Queensland, Australia
• Diet – Omnivorous
• PH Range – 5.8 – 9
• Temperature – Tropical and Coldwater 11°c – 34°c
• Breed Type – Egg Scatterer
• Current Size – approximately 4cm (Grows to approximately 12cm)
• Sex – Un-sexed