Rainbowfish - Boesmani (Melanotaenia boesemani)

The Boeseman's Rainbowfish Melanotaenia boesemani is a relatively new addition to the hobby but has quickly gained in popularity. It is an active and good sized rainbow fish, reaching up to 4.5 inches (11.5 cm). Looking at a mature male makes it easy to see why they are called Bicolor Rainbow fish. It is a beautiful blue-gray on the front half of the body and a vibrant orange-red on the back half.

Its coloration in a pet store is usually a dull steel gray and hardly seems worth purchasing. But a serious and patient aquarist can bring out unforgettable colors. The secret to good colors is to buy quality specimens, feed a varied diet, and above all keep up with frequent water changes and maintenance.

As with most rainbow fish, Boesemani Rainbowfish are excellent fish for beginners. They are hardy fish that are best kept in schools and so need a large aquarium, 150 gallons or more. But they will light up your tank with their beauty. If breeding is something you wanted to try, the Boeseman's Rainbowfish is a great choice for that as well.