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Midwest Aquarium and Pond Supplier LLC

(89)Lake Kutubu Rainbowfish

(89)Lake Kutubu Rainbowfish

$19.00 USD
$19.00 USD
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The Lake Kutubu Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia lacustris), also known as the Turquoise Rainbowfish, is a stunning and active species endemic to Lake Kutubu in Papua New Guinea. They are a peaceful, schooling fish that can add a vibrant splash of color to a community aquarium, provided their specific water chemistry needs (hard and alkaline) are met. 

Tank Requirements
  • Tank Size: A minimum of 55 gallons (approx. 4 feet long) is recommended for a group of 6-8 fish. They are very active and need ample horizontal swimming space.
  • Decor: Replicate their natural lake habitat with dense vegetation along the margins and back of the tank, using plants that tolerate hard, alkaline water (e.g., Anubias, Java Fern). Ensure plenty of open swimming areas in the middle. Dark substrate can help highlight their colors.
  • Filtration: A robust biological filtration system is essential to maintain pristine water quality, as they are sensitive to fluctuating parameters. A moderate flow is suitable, as they inhabit still to slow-moving waters in the wild.
  • Maintenance: Perform regular weekly water changes of 25-30%. A tight-fitting lid is crucial, as they are known jumpers. 

Water Parameters
Lake Kutubu Rainbowfish are quite adaptable but thrive in stable, specific water conditions. They will not do well in soft, acidic water. 

Parameter  Range
Temperature 72–78°F (22–26°C)
pH 7.0–9.0 (preferably alkaline, like their native lake's pH of ~8.5)
Hardness (GH/KH) Moderate to Hard (10–20 dGH)

Diet and Feeding
They are omnivores and will readily accept most foods. A varied diet is crucial for their health and to bring out their best colors. 
  • Staple: High-quality flake or micro-pellet food, especially those rich in spirulina or algae.
  • Supplement: Offer live or frozen meaty foods regularly, such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and mysis shrimp.
  • Feeding frequency: Feed small portions 2-3 times daily, ensuring all food is consumed within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality. 

Behavior and Tank Mates
  • Temperament: They are peaceful, fast-moving schooling fish. Keep them in a group of at least 6 to ensure they feel secure and display natural behaviors and vibrant colors. Males may spar harmlessly to establish dominance, especially during breeding.
  • Tank Mates: Suitable companions include other similarly sized, peaceful, and robust fish that prefer similar water parameters. Good choices include other rainbowfish species, robust rasboras, barbs, larger tetras, and peaceful catfish like Corydoras. Avoid very small or slow-moving species that might be stressed by the rainbowfish's activity.
  • Lifespan: With good care, they typically live for 5 to 8 years
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