Melanotaenia Affinis

Datasheet

General Description

The New Guinea Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia Affinis) is a popular and peaceful species within the Melanotaeniidae family. This fish boasts vibrant coloration and a sleek body, with mature males being larger and displaying brighter hues compared to females. Known for its adaptability, this rainbowfish is a hardy species that thrives in various biotopes, notably clear rainforest streams in Papua New Guinea.

Aquarium Setup

To mimic its natural habitat, a minimum tank size of 110 liters is recommended, with the inclusion of dense vegetation and some open spaces for swimming. Gentle water movement is ideal for this species, with water conditions falling within a pH range of 6.5-8.0, a temperature range of 20-30°C, and a water hardness of 8-20°dH (see table). For optimal color display, keeping a shoal of at least 6-8 fish is advised, as it encourages male rainbowfish to flaunt their best colors.

Behaviour

New Guinea Rainbowfish are peaceful by nature but may disrupt smaller or slower fish due to their rapid movements and relatively large size. To promote their well-being, suitable tankmates include similarly-sized rainbowfish, characins, danios, barbs, and catfish such as Corydoras. These rainbowfish exhibit skittish behavior and fare better when kept in groups, showcasing their striking coloration within conspecific company.

Feeding and Diet

This rainbowfish species is unfussy when it comes to diet and readily accepts a variety of dried, frozen, and live foods. To enhance their vibrancy, regular feedings of live foods are recommended. Providing a diverse diet ensures optimal health and coloration of the New Guinea Rainbowfish.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Breeding among New Guinea Rainbowfish is akin to other Glossolepis species, with them being egg scatterers. A breeding aquarium of at least 30" in length with neutral pH and a temperature range of 75-80°F is suitable for spawning. Differentiating sexes is visible through size and coloration, where mature males are larger, more colorful, and have elongated first dorsal and anal fins.

Habitat and Distribution

Inhabiting various biotopes such as swamps, pools, and lagoons, the New Guinea Rainbowfish is commonly found in clear rainforest streams in Papua New Guinea. These fish prefer swimming in groups around dense vegetation and submerged branches, adapting well to seasonal changes in water temperature and chemistry within their diverse habitats.