Enhance your aquarium with the vibrant Lake Tobera Rainbowfish, a stunning and peaceful species that thrives in clean, slightly alkaline water, perfect for intermediate aquarists.

Detailed Product Description:

• Scientific Name: Melanotaenia herbertaxelrodi
• Common Name: Lake Tobera Rainbowfish
• Origin: Lake Tobera, Papua New Guinea
• Size: Up to 3 inches (7.5 cm)
• Lifespan: 5-8 years

Appearance: The Lake Tobera Rainbowfish is renowned for its vibrant, iridescent colors, which can vary from shimmering blues and greens to striking reds and oranges. Males typically exhibit brighter colors than females, especially during breeding. Their bodies are slender and elongated, with a slightly arched back and distinctively large eyes.

Water Conditions:

• Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• pH: 7.0-8.0
• Hardness: 10-20 dGH
• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons (113 liters) for a small group

Maintaining optimal water conditions is crucial for the health and coloration of the Lake Tobera Rainbowfish. They prefer slightly alkaline water with moderate hardness. Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) and good filtration are essential to keep the water clean and free from toxins.

Tank Setup:

• Aquascaping: Provide plenty of swimming space with open areas and dense vegetation along the tank's edges and back. Plants like Java fern, Anubias, and Vallisneria are excellent choices. Driftwood and rocks can be added to create hiding spots and mimic their natural habitat.
• Lighting: Moderate to bright lighting enhances their colors and supports plant growth.
• Substrate: A dark substrate, such as fine gravel or sand, contrasts beautifully with their vibrant colors.

Tank Mates: Lake Tobera Rainbowfish are peaceful and sociable, making them ideal for community tanks. Suitable tank mates include:

• Other rainbowfish species
• Tetras (e.g., Neon Tetras, Rummy Nose Tetras)
• Rasboras
• Corydoras catfish
• Small to medium-sized peaceful cichlids (e.g., Apistogramma species)
• Livebearers (e.g., Guppies, Platies)

Avoid aggressive or overly boisterous fish that may stress or outcompete them for food.

Feeding Habits: Lake Tobera Rainbowfish are omnivorous and enjoy a varied diet. In the wild, they feed on insects, crustaceans, and plant matter. In the aquarium, provide a balanced diet that includes:

• High-quality flake or pellet food as a staple
• Live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms
• Vegetable matter, including blanched spinach or spirulina-based foods

Feed them small amounts 2-3 times daily, ensuring they consume all food within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding and water quality issues.

Care and Maintenance:

• Water Quality: Regular water testing for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels is essential. Maintain a stable pH and temperature to prevent stress and disease.
• Health: Look out for signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or unusual spots. Common issues include ich and fin rot, treatable with appropriate medications and improved water conditions.
• Breeding: Breeding Lake Tobera Rainbowfish can be rewarding. They are egg scatterers and prefer fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for laying eggs. Raise the water temperature slightly to around 82°F (28°C) to encourage spawning. Once eggs are laid, remove the adults to prevent them from eating the eggs. Eggs hatch in 7-10 days, and fry can be fed infusoria or finely crushed flake food.

Summary: The Lake Tobera Rainbowfish is a stunning addition to any aquarium, providing vibrant colors and peaceful behavior. With proper care and a suitable environment, they can thrive and bring joy to both novice and experienced aquarists. Their adaptability and compatibility with various tank mates make them a versatile choice for community tanks. Regular maintenance and a balanced diet will ensure these beautiful fish remain healthy and vibrant for years to come.