Glossolepis Incisus

Datasheet

General Description
The Red Rainbowfish, also known as the salmon-red or New Guinea rainbowfish, is a popular fish in the hobby, although mass-bred specimens do not exhibit the vibrant colors of wild individuals. Belonging to the Melanotaeniidae family, this species can grow up to 15.0cm in length and requires a minimum tank size of 110 liters. It is native to Indonesia, specifically the Lake Sentani region of Northern New Guinea, where it is commonly found in shoals around heavily vegetated areas.

Aquarium Setup
The Red Rainbowfish thrives in planted aquariums with areas of dense vegetation and some open swimming spaces. Gentle water movement is preferred, and the species requires water with a hardness of 10-20 dH, a pH range of 7.0-8.0, and a temperature between 22-25°C.

Behaviour
This species is generally peaceful but can disturb smaller or slower fish due to its rapid movements and relatively large size. It is best kept in a shoal of at least 6-8 fish to reduce skittish behavior and encourage males to display their best colors. Suitable tank mates include equally sized rainbowfish, characins, danios, barbs, and catfish like Corydoras.

Feeding and Diet
Red Rainbowfish are unfussy eaters and accept most dried, frozen, and live foods. Regular feedings of live and frozen foods enhance their coloration.

Reproduction & Dimorphism
Breeding Red Rainbowfish is relatively easy, as they are egg scatterers. The breeding tank should have slightly hard, alkaline water with a pH around 7.5 and a temperature of 70-75°F. Mature males develop a prominent back, with only males showcasing the characteristic red coloration. Lower temperatures can induce red coloration in all males, while warmer water prompts coloration in dominant individuals.

Habitat and Distribution
These fish are native to Lake Sentani in Indonesia and the surrounding waters. The lake, linked to the ocean by a tributary, provides a diverse habitat with a mix of aquatic species.