The Celebes Rainbowfish (Marosatherina ladigesi) is a beautiful and unique freshwater fish, popular for its vibrant colors and active swimming habits. Native to the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia, this fish thrives in tropical environments with clear, fast-moving waters.
Key Characteristics:
• Appearance: Celebes Rainbowfish have elongated bodies with a distinctive yellowish or translucent blue base color. They have iridescent blue and green highlights along their fins, and a distinct black line runs along their body, adding contrast to their look. Males often show brighter colors, especially during mating displays.
• Size: They typically grow up to 3-4 inches (7-10 cm) in length.
• Lifespan: With proper care, they can live around 3 to 5 years.
Tank Requirements:
• Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for a small group, as they are active swimmers.
• Water Conditions: They prefer slightly brackish to freshwater conditions, with a pH around 7.0-8.0 and a temperature of 72-79°F (22-26°C).
• Tank Setup: Celebes Rainbowfish enjoy planted tanks with plenty of swimming space. A mix of open areas and hiding spots like driftwood or rocks can help them feel secure.
Behavior and Care:
• Diet: They are omnivorous and enjoy a mix of high-quality flakes, live foods (such as brine shrimp or daphnia), and frozen foods.
• Temperament: Generally peaceful, they do well in community tanks with other non-aggressive species. It’s best to keep them in groups of 5 or more to reduce stress and promote natural behaviors.
This fish is a great addition to a well-maintained freshwater tank, offering a striking pop of color and active movement.
