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varieties living well in captivity.
Neon Dwarf Rainbowfi sh, Salmon
Red Rainbowfi sh, Madgascar
Rainbowfi sh, and Threadfi n

Rainbowfish are some common
species found in the pet industry. All
the various species of Rainbowfi sh
are quite similar with respect
to feeding habits, desired water
chemistry, temperature, breeding Bosemani Rainbowfi sh Threadfi n Rainbowfi sh
habits etc. However, it is advisable
to research about their particular Tank Decoration – It is important FEEDING REQUIREMENTS
that you wish to bring home. Having to provide Rainbowfish with plenty By nature, Rainbowfi sh are

said that, it is mention worthy that of decorations and places to hide. omnivores and can survive on both
each type of Rainbowfish is radically The natural Rainbowfish habitat is plant and animal matter. Primarily

so different from the other that you filled with aquatic plants, so they they are surface feeders meaning
can have an aquarium fi lled with will appreciate a planted aquarium. they prefer to eat food that fl oats
Rainbowfish that look nothing alike Consider using tall plants or other on the surface of water. Therefore,

but just mesmerizing. structures such as bogwood, rocks you need to feed them frequently,
etc. to ornate the tank. Keepers of yet cautiously in small doses so
BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES Rainbowfish usually opt for a dark as to avoid the uneaten food from

Rainbowfish are a peaceful and substrate and strong lighting since being sinking to the tank’s bottom,

schooling fish. They prefer to be this makes the Rainbowfi sh look consequently, polluting the water.
housed with other fish in schools of more vibrant.

five or more, making them a good Coloured or spirulina fl akes or

choice for a fish hobbyist. However, it Water Conditions – Rainbowfi sh even betta treat or tropical fl akes

is advisable to limit male Rainbowfi sh needs freshwater environment are preferably a descent choice to
to just one per tank as they have a i.e. dechlorinated. They prefer feed Rainbowfi sh. Occasionally,
tendency to become aggressive to temperature between 74 and 78 throwing in ground vegetables or
the extent of injuring each other degrees Fahrenheit, generally with a frozen shrimp is also a good idea.
during breeding season. pH of around 7.0 to 8.0 and alkalinity Sometimes you can even treat them
that rests between 5 and 20 dKH. with mosquito larvae, blackworms,
AQUARIUM SET UP Please note that if room temperature bloodworms or glassworms.

Tank Size – Rainbowfish are very drops below 74 degrees Fahrenheit, However, it is noteworthy here that
active and need plenty of space consider using a tank heater. Along whichever foods you choose, make

to swim. An ideal tank size for with that, it is advisable to use an sure you rotate your fish’s diet every

Rainbowfish may vary between 30 adequate filtration unit swap the few days. This will allow them great

and 55 gallons, depending upon the water out every two weeks with variety and higher levels of nutrition.
species you select. treated tap water.
KEEPING THEM HEALTHY
Tank Mates – As already mentioned, Rainbowfish are easily stressed by

Rainbowfi sh exhibit docile overcrowded conditions. Along with
behaviours towards other fish, so you that, it is important to maintain

can opt to fill your tank with various perfect water quality, temperature,
other beautiful aquatic creatures. and pH. Staying on top of these factors
These fish cohabit well with other can help keep your Rainbowfi sh

fish species such as tetras, discus, happy and healthy!

guppies etc. displaying their tranquil
personalities. * Editor - Creature Companion Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2020 • VOL. XIII • ISSUE 7 • NOIDA | Creature Companion 37