Obi Obi Creek Rainbowfish (Rhadinocentrus ornatus)

The Obi Obi Creek Rainbowfish, scientifically known as Rhadinocentrus ornatus, is a captivating freshwater fish native to the coastal streams of eastern Australia, including Obi Obi Creek in Queensland. Its slender, semi-transparent body with dark scale margins forming a network pattern, accented by iridescent blue or red hues, brings elegance to community aquariums. Furthermore, this peaceful schooling fish thrives in groups, enhancing its appeal for aquarists seeking a vibrant addition.

Caring

A tank of at least 60 litres suits the Obi Obi Creek Rainbowfish, with a sandy substrate, submerged logs, and plants like Java moss or water lilies to replicate its natural wallum habitat.

For instance, maintain water conditions with a pH of 5.4–6.5, a temperature of 20–28°C, and very soft water, ideally below 80 ppm hardness. Additionally, subdued lighting and tannin-stained water from dried leaves, such as Catappa, promote comfort. Weekly 20–25% water changes and a low-flow filter ensure pristine conditions.

Ideal Tank Mates for Obi Obi Creek Rainbowfish

The Obi Obi Creek Rainbowfish excels in groups of six or more, displaying vibrant colours and confident schooling behaviour. They coexist well with small, peaceful species like Pacific blue eyes, honey blue eyes, or small rasboras. However, avoid aggressive or larger fish, such as cichlids, to prevent stress. A well-planted tank with ample cover and swimming space supports their natural behaviour.

Feeding and Nutrition

The Obi Obi Creek Rainbowfish is omnivorous, thriving on a varied diet to enhance its colouration.

For example, offer high-quality flakes or micropellets as a staple, supplemented with live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, or mosquito larvae. Moreover, include plant-based foods such as spirulina flakes to ensure balanced nutrition. Feed small portions 2–3 times daily to avoid overfeeding and maintain water quality.

Breeding

Breeding the Obi Obi Creek Rainbowfish is achievable in a 60-litre tank with fine-leaved plants like Java moss or a spawning mop for egg deposition.

Maintain water at 23–28°C and a pH of 6.0–6.5 with soft water to encourage spawning. After spawning, remove adults to protect the eggs, which hatch in 7–10 days. Consequently, fry require infusoria or liquid fry food initially, transitioning to baby brine shrimp as they grow.

FAQs About Obi Obi Creek Rainbowfish

What tank size for them?
A minimum of 60 litres is recommended for a school of six or more.

Can they live with other species?
Yes, with small, peaceful fish like Pacific blue eyes or rasboras, avoiding aggressive species.

What do this fish eat?
They eat flakes, micropellets, live foods like daphnia, and spirulina, fed 2–3 times daily.

Are this 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 5.4–6.5, temperatures of 20–28°C, and very soft water.

Species Overview

This fish is a delicate, vibrant fish ideal for planted community aquariums. Moreover, its unique colour variations and schooling nature make it a captivating choice for aquarists. Note that this species is listed as vulnerable by the IUCN, so sourcing from reputable breeders is essential.

• Species: Rhadinocentrus ornatus
• Common Name: Obi Obi Creek Rainbowfish
• Origin: Eastern Australia (Queensland, including Obi Obi Creek)
• Diet: Omnivorous
• pH Range: 5.4–6.5
• Temperature: 20–28°C
• Current Size: Approximately 3–4 cm
• Max Size: Approximately 5–6 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 60 litres
• Sex: Unsexed

Order your Obi Obi Creek Rainbowfish today and add a graceful, schooling fish to your aquarium! Live fish and aquarium products shipped Australia-wide.