Praecox Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia praecox)

Description:
The Praecox Rainbowfish, also known as the Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish, is a dazzling freshwater species known for its shimmering silver-blue scales and vibrant red or orange-tinted fins. Its iridescent body reflects light beautifully, making it a standout in community aquariums. This active schooling fish is both peaceful and hardy, making it a great choice for aquarists of all experience levels.

Size:
Up to 3 inches (7.5 cm)

Aquarium Size:
A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for a small school, though larger tanks allow for better schooling behavior and enhanced coloration.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C)

• pH: 6.5 to 7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderate

Temperament:
Praecox Rainbowfish are peaceful community fish. They are best suited for calm aquariums with other non-aggressive species and thrive in groups where their schooling behavior can be displayed.

Group Size:
Best kept in groups of 6 or more. Larger schools help reduce stress and encourage natural schooling behavior while enhancing their colors.

Compatibility:
Praecox Rainbowfish can be kept with other peaceful species such as tetras, rasboras, corydoras catfish, and gouramis. Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species, as they may harass the rainbowfish.

Diet:
Omnivorous. They thrive on a varied diet of high-quality flakes, micro pellets, and frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp and daphnia. A balanced diet helps maintain their vibrant coloration.

Care Level:
Beginner to Intermediate. They are hardy but require stable water conditions and regular maintenance for optimal health and coloration.

Planted Aquarium:
Praecox Rainbowfish are ideal for planted aquariums. Plants not only provide shelter and reduce stress but also help highlight their shimmering scales.

Invertebrate Compatibility:
Safe with most peaceful invertebrates such as snails and shrimp. However, very small shrimp fry may be at risk of predation.

Additional Notes:
Praecox Rainbowfish are highly active swimmers and do best in tanks with ample open swimming space and some shaded areas created by plants. Their iridescence is more noticeable under proper aquarium lighting.

Disclaimer:
Aquarium Arts cannot guarantee compatibility with your current fish or the fish you buy and cannot be held liable for fish lost due to aggression.