Australian Billabong

Australia's inland waterways — the slow-flowing rivers, seasonal floodplains, and still billabongs of the tropical north — are home to some of the most spectacular freshwater fish in the world. Rainbowfish in particular have developed extraordinary iridescent colouration in the isolated river systems of northern Australia and New Guinea, and they have become prized showpieces in aquariums worldwide.

Australian Rainbowfish are active, schooling fish that display their full iridescent colours only when kept in a group of six or more; males intensify their colouration in the presence of females, making a mixed group a constantly shifting light show. Forktail Rainbowfish and Pseudomugil species are smaller, more delicate members of the same family with extraordinary finnage on males in full display. Cherry Shrimp add activity and algae control at the lower levels, complementing the rainbowfish's preference for the upper and middle water column. Bright light, neutral water, and plenty of open swimming space bring out the best in this spectacular community.