Slender Rainbowfish

Distinct pairing (Ref. 205).

Inhabits large water courses and isolated rocky pools generally bordered with paperbark trees (Melaleuca) which have clear waters and minimal flow during the dry season. Feeds on insects and their larvae, small crustaceans and algae.

Inhabits large water courses and isolated rocky pools generally bordered with paperbark trees (Melaleuca) which have clear waters and minimal flow during the dry season (Ref. 2906, 44894). Large numbers congregate in shady pools around log snags and submerged branches (Ref. 44894). Feeds on insects and their larvae, small crustaceans and algae. Sympatric with M. splendida australis (Ref. 2906). Prefers the following aquarium conditions: pH=7, H=10, 24°C water temperature; is an egg layer and a peaceful community fish (Ref. 6398).

aquarium: potential

The slender rainbowfish (Melanotaenia gracilis) is a species of rainbowfish in the subfamily Melanotaeniinae which is endemic to Australia. It occurs in the extreme north of Western Australia in the systems of the Drysdale and King Edward Rivers.