30x Rainbow Mary Chequered 5-6cm

30x Rainbow Mary Chequered

The Mary River Chequered Rainbowfish is a stunning Australian native species that stands out for its vivid colouration, energetic nature, and striking chequered scale patterning. This specific variant originates from the Mary River system in Queensland and displays a unique colour morph when compared to other Melanotaenia duboulayi populations. Known for their bold schooling behaviour and glimmering appearance under aquarium lighting, they make a spectacular choice for larger planted or native-themed aquariums.

Juvenile Mary River Chequered Rainbows may appear relatively subdued in colour, but their transformation as they grow is incredible. Males develop intense red-orange lateral markings with reflective blue sides, creating a chequered look from their overlapping scale sheen and banding. Under high-quality aquarium lighting, their scales glimmer, creating a hypnotic, metallic effect that looks particularly striking against green plant backdrops and darker substrates. In a large school, the effect is even more pronounced. This pack of 30 will transform any tank into a moving canvas of light.

Breeding Mary River rainbows in the home aquarium is relatively straightforward. Once mature, females will lay eggs almost daily, which males will then fertilise. The use of spawning mops or fine-leafed plants is common, allowing aquarists to easily collect the adhesive eggs. Males tend to exhibit more vibrant colouration, especially during courtship displays, while females appear more subdued with a lighter blue. Although raising fry requires a commitment to frequent feeding with fine live foods, it's a rewarding challenge for aquarists looking to expand their breeding experience.

Tank Recommendations for your 30 x Rainbow Mary Chequered

As the Mary River rainbowfish can reach up to 12 cm and are incredibly active swimmers, it is best to keep a school of them in an aquarium with a minimum volume of 400 litres. This will comfortably house all 30 fish and leave room for additional tank mates.

They are plant-safe and will thrive in a well-planted aquarium with plenty of open swimming space. As they are primarily mid to top water dwellers, the choice of substrate is not critical, but sand or fine gravel is ideal for aesthetic purposes. They are also excellent jumpers, so a tight-fitting lid is essential. Being a tropical species, they are best kept at a temperature of 24-28 degrees Celsius.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The Mary River rainbowfish is incredibly peaceful, but due to their speed and active nature, they may outcompete slower or bottom-dwelling tank mates during feeding. They can, however, be kept in a wide range of community aquarium settings and with other rainbowfish species.

Usually Compatible

Other rainbow fish species, a range of tetra species such as lemon tetras, black widow tetras, and Congo tetras, along with danio species as well. 

Sometimes Compatible

Corydoras, Apistogramma, angelfish, and other smaller or potentially slow-moving species. 

Rarely Compatible

Aggressive species that may prey on the Mary River rainbowfish. Any incredibly small species, such as shrimp, should be avoided as they may be eaten by the rainbow fish. 

Feeding your 30 x Rainbow Mary Rainbow

Mary river rainbowfish will take to aquarium foods very easily. They will take a wide range of pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. By giving them a varied diet, it ensures that they have optimal nutrition. The ideal diet would be a good quality floating food, supplemented with frozen bloodworms or blackworms, or even live foods like baby brine shrimp. Feeding any foods with natural colour enhancers would also be great, as this will really enhance the stunning hues.