Melanotaenia boesemani

Alternative names

 * Boesemani Rainbow fish, ,

Origin

 * Inhabits lakes which are situated at the headwaters of the Ajamaru River in Irian Jaya which drains into the Kais River eventually flowing to the Ceram Sea in Asia.

Sexing

 * Females are slimmer than males with less vivid colouration.

Tank compatibility

 * A peaceful community mid-swimming fish, will live with other similar sized peaceful fish. Keep in groups of 6 or more, more females than males. May well pose a threat to smaller invertebrates including snails.

Diet

 * Will accept most foods including pellet and flake food as long as the morsels are small. They will accept blanched vegetables and live/frozen food as well such as brine shrimp.

Feeding regime

 * Feed once or twice a day.

Environment Specifics

 * They need plenty of open swimming space as they are quite active swimmers. A mature tank with tall plants and open swimming space in the centre without very bright lighting is ideal.

Behaviour

 * An active peaceful shoaling fish.

Identification

 * A slender high-backed fish with a pointed snout. They are attractively coloured, especially the males, their front half is blue and their back half is orange.