PisciDex Species Profile
Lake Kutubu Rainbowfish
Larger blue rainbowfish that needs a group, open swimming space, and clean moderately hard water.
Melanotaenia lacustris
Melanotaeniidae | Oceania | Lake Kutubu, Papua New Guinea
Core Requirements
Tank Size
55 gallons minimum
Adult Size
5 inches
Group Size
Group 6+
Bioload
4/10
Water Parameters
Temperature
72-79 F
pH
7-8.5
Plant Safe
Yes
Invert Safe
Yes
Data Confidence
medium
Temperature note: Recommended and tolerated temperature ranges currently match the primary care profile.
Behavior & Husbandry
Temperament
Peaceful
Aggression
2/10
Diet
Omnivore
Difficulty
Intermediate
Lifespan
6 years
Breeding
Intermediate
Schooling
Yes
Compatibility Tags
CommunityLarge TankPeacefulSchoolingMid WaterTop WaterPlant SafeInvert SafeHardwater
Similar Species
Species Compatibility
Database-driven compatibility notes for planning community aquariums.