Praecox Rainbowfish – Melanotaenia praecox
Praecox Rainbowfish – Melanotaenia praecox is extremely beautifully colored dwarf fish species. They are quite amusing to watch and are highly intelligent, aware of your presence around the aquarium. In the year 1994, Praecox Rainbowfish were identified as a rare fish species. The male Rainbow fish boast brightly colored red fins and the females boast yellow colored fins. The coloring on their body is a pinkish gray color. Their scales will feature a bright blue when the light is reflecting on them with a range of fascinating color from many tones of blues to lavender.
Common Name: Praecox Rainbowfish, Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish
Scientific Name: Melanotaenia praecox
Size: 3 inches /8 cm
Natural Habitat: They inhabit moving jungle waters in Western New Guinea, Indonesia.
Tank Size: 55 gallon /240 litre
Tank Mates: other peaceful, community fish like Molly, Guppies, Platy, Tetras.
Care Level: Beginner+
Aquarium Water Temperature: 23 – 32°C (73 – 89°F)
Aquarium Water pH: Range pH 4.5 – 7.5
Feeding: Feed once or twice a day. They should consume all food in a matter of minutes. Any leftover food in the aquarium should be removed with a fine fish net. Foods leftover in the water will alter water parameters and the quality of water in their environment. A flake food diet is a great food base for the Rainbow, however should be offered live foods as well to ensure the healthiness of these type of dwarf fish species. Live or frozen Brine Shrimp, bloodworms, fruit flies, micro worms, mosquito larvae, diced up Earthworms and daphnia are great alternatives.
Sexing: Males have red fins while females have yellow to light orange fins. The males breeding stripe from top of nose to dorsal fin flashes yellow during displays.
Other Considerations: These fish are quite popular in the hobby. Ensure that your aquarium water has been cycled before adding these type of rainbow fish.
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