Exquisite rainbowfish (Melanotaenia exquisita)

Scientific name: Melanotaenia exquisita Allen, 1978

The Exquisite rainbowfish (Melanotaenia exquisita) is a freshwater fish of the family Melanotaeniidae. In the aquarium it needs water at 24–30°C (75–86°F).

Exquisite rainbowfish care at a glance

Temperature
24–30°C (75–86°F)

Biology

Inhabits steep gradient streams with numerous cascades and normally crystal clear water. Tends to congregate in pools at the base of small waterfalls where flow is rapid but is also found in quieter sections of streams and lakes. Prefers areas fully exposed to sunlight. Found in small, clear, swift-flowing streams, occasionally seen above high waterfalls. Also occurs in a lacustrine environment at the base of Edith Falls (Northern Territory). Feeds mainly on aquatic and terrestrial insects and their larvae, also on green algae. Sympatric with M. splendida australis. A good aquarium fish, typical of most rainbowfishes in this respect. Should probably be provided with more space and additional aeration than is usually recommended for fish of this size due to its fast swimming habits and affinity for well-oxygenated waters at the base of waterfalls and rapids.

Source: FishBase, licensed CC BY-NC 4.0.

Species facts

Scientific name
Melanotaenia exquisita
Family
Melanotaeniidae (Rainbowfishes, blue eyes)
Order
Atheriniformes (Silversides)
Class
Actinopterygii (Ray-finned fishes)
Maximum length
7.5
Environment
Freshwater; benthopelagic
Climate
Tropical
Distribution
Oceania: occurs in the Edith River Gorge and Lake Malkyyllumbo (Edith Falls National Park), upper south Alligator River system and Moline Pool (Mary River system), Northern Territory, Australia. Edith River is a tributary of the Daly River system, 230 km southeast of Darwin.
Conservation status (IUCN)
Data deficient (DD)
Threat to humans
Harmless
Resilience
Medium, minimum population doubling time 1.4 - 4.4 years (Preliminary K or Fecundity.)

Sources

Taxonomy, distribution and biology data: FishBase (Froese, R. and D. Pauly, eds.), licensed CC BY-NC 4.0.

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