MADAGASCAR RAINBOW

Bring a touch of the exotic to your aquarium with the Madagascar Rainbowfish, a captivating species known for its shimmering silver body, accented by a bold black lateral stripe and vibrant red-tipped fins. Endemic to the pristine streams of eastern Madagascar, this peaceful and active schooling fish adds both movement and elegance to any freshwater setup. Ideal for aquarists seeking a unique and visually striking addition, the Madagascar Rainbowfish thrives in well-maintained community tanks.

Features

• Scientific Name: Bedotia madagascariensis

• Common Name: Madagascar Rainbowfish

• Size: Up to 10–15 cm (4–6 inches)

• Lifespan: 3–5 years with proper care

• Temperament: Peaceful and social; best kept in groups of 6 or more

• Diet: Omnivorous; enjoys a varied diet of high-quality flake food, pellets, and occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 22–26°C (72–79°F)

  • pH Level: 6.5–7.5

  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (55–250 ppm)

• Minimum Tank Size: 110 liters (30 gallons) for a small group.

Why Choose the Madagascar Rainbowfish?

• Striking Appearance: Their iridescent bodies and contrasting fin colors make them a standout addition to any aquarium.

• Active Swimmers: Known for their lively schooling behavior, adding dynamic movement to the tank.

• Peaceful Nature: Coexists harmoniously with other non-aggressive species.

• Hardy and Adaptable: Thrives in a range of water conditions, making them suitable for various setups.

• Conservation Significance: Keeping and breeding this species supports conservation efforts, as they are vulnerable in the wild due to habitat loss.

Tank Requirements

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel to mimic natural habitats.

• Decor: Incorporate driftwood, rocks, and live plants like Java Fern and Anubias to provide hiding spots and establish territories.

• Filtration: Efficient filtration with gentle water flow to maintain water quality without stressing the fish.

• Lighting: Moderate lighting to enhance their natural colors.

• Tank Cover: A secure lid is recommended, as they can be occasional jumpers.

Compatible Tank Mates

Madagascar Rainbowfish thrive in peaceful community tanks. Suitable companions include:

•  Black Skirt Tetras

• Rasboras

• Corydoras Catfish

• Danios

• Guppies,

Avoid housing with larger or aggressive fish that may view them as prey.

Feeding Recommendations

• Staple Diet: High-quality flake food or pellets formulated for omnivorous fish.

• Supplementary Foods: Live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms to enhance coloration and breeding readiness.

• Vegetables: Blanched spinach, zucchini, and cucumber can be offered as occasional treats.

• Feeding Frequency: Feed 2–3 times daily in small amounts to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality.

Breeding Tips

Madagascar Rainbowfish are egg scatterers,and breeding them in captivity can be a rewarding experience. To encourage successful breeding:

• Maintain Optimal Conditions: Keep water parameters stable and within the recommended ranges.

• Provide Spawning Sites: Use fine-leaved plants or spawning mops where females can lay eggs.

• Separate Fry: Consider moving fry to a separate rearing tank to increase survival rates.

• Feeding Fry: Start with infusoria or commercially available liquid fry foods, transitioning to newly hatched brine shrimp as they grow.

FAQs

Can Madagascar Rainbowfish live in a community tank?
Yes, they coexist peacefully with other small, non-aggressive species in a well-planned community tank.

Do they require a heater?
Maintaining a stable temperature between 22–26°C (72–79°F) is essential; a heater may be necessary depending on ambient room temperature.

Are they suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Their hardy nature and adaptability make them ideal for novice aquarists.

How can I enhance their coloration?
A varied diet rich in high-quality foods, maintaining pristine water conditions, and providing a stress-free environment can help accentuate their vibrant colors.