Home Article Library Fish Index Tank Setups Forum Site Map Site Search Links

Banded/Three-Striped Rainbow

Common nameBanded Rainbow Picture of Banded Rainbow

Picture of Banded Rainbow

Photos © Sean Evans

Scientific nameMelanotaenia trifasciata
SynonymsThree-Striped Rainbow, Jewel Rainbow
Size4.5" (11cm), females slightly smaller.
OriginAustralia: Northern Territory and Cape York Peninsula.
Tank setupPeaceful planted tank with gentle water movement
CompatibilityCommunity tank, combine with other lively shoaling species.
Temperature24-28oC (75-82oF)
Water chemistryFairly hard, slightly acidic to alkaline (pH 6.6-8.0)
FeedingOmnivore: will take flake, which should be supplemented with live and frozen foods
SexingMales tend to be larger and deeper bodied, with more intense colouration.
BreedingIdeally, use a ratio of 3 males to 2 females. Males will display to the females. Spawns fairly readily in typical rainbowfish fashion, usually in the morning. Remove eggs to a separate rearing tank, otherwise they and the fry are likely to be eaten.
CommentsSeveral colour variations of this species exist in different regions, which also vary in adult size. May eat soft-leaved plants.

 

Back to Home page
INDEX Anabantids Catfish Characins Cichlids Cyprinids Killifish Livebearers Rainbows Misc


The Tropical Tank Copyright © 2000-2008 Sean Evans This website was last updated on 18th January 2008