Rainbowfish - Dwarf Neon (Melanotaenia praecox)

Maximum Standard Length                                         3.2″ (8cm), although usually smaller in aquaria.

Aquarium Size

An active species, so despite its small size it requires an aquarium measuring at least 24″ x 12″ x 12″ (60cm x 30cm x 30cm) – 55 litres.

Maintenance

This little rainbowfish is ideally suited to a heavily planted setup and will show its best colours in such surroundings. It doesn’t appreciate bright conditions and we suggest the use of floating plants to diffuse the light entering the tank. Allow open spaces between areas of planting to allow swimming space and areas for males to display at one another. High water quality is essential to the well-being of this species, so weekly partial water changes are recommended.

Water Conditions

Temperature: 73-82°F (23-28°C)

pH: 6.8-7.5

Hardness: 5-15°H

Diet

Like most of its congeners, it’s an unfussy, omnivorous species and will accept most dried, frozen and live foods. Regular feedings of the latter will help to ensure the fish exhibit their best colours.

Behaviour and Compatibility

Very peaceful and suitable for many community aquaria given its relatively small size. Good tankmates include other similarly-sized rainbowfish, characins, danios, barbs, dwarf cichlids, freshwater gobies, and catfish such as Corydoras. Like other rainbowfish it can be quite skittish and does far better when kept in a shoal of at least 6-8, preferably more. The males will also be encouraged to display their best colours in the company of conspecifics.