Bleher's Rainbow N.G 5cm

Bleher’s Rainbow

Where most rainbowfish are known for their bright and flashy colours, the bleher’s rainbow wins over many aquarists for its subtle, soft, and elegant blend of colours. There seems to be an endless array of colours and patterns of rainbow fish that cater to the tastes of every aquarist which is why they are such popular fish. Bleher’s rainbow is a perfect consideration to break up the solid colour often seen in rainbowfish community tanks with their unique patterning, they will also get quite big reaching around 12 cm. They are however truly underrated fish that can be stunningly highlighted in a species-only aquarium.

The bleher’s rainbow probably has the most variety of colours in any rainbowfish species but the colours work together in such harmony that the fish almost looks like a watercolour painting. The bleher’s rainbow basically has two halves of the main body colour which is broken up by a gunmetal grey lateral line. The bottom half is a silvery cream colour whereas the top half can range from jade green to sulphuric yellow colour which is most present across the nape of the fish. There are also grey stripes that start from the pectoral fin and end halfway through the ventral fin. Aside from the bright yellow nape, the bleher’s rainbow has another point of contrast with the light red coloured tail which has a blue rim. These fish also have the characteristic deep body of rainbowfish and all in all, are unique and beautiful fish. 

Bleher’s rainbowfish can be bred in the home aquarium quite commonly as once they reach maturity, females lay eggs on an almost daily basis. Aquarists often make spawning mops out of acrylic yarn and place these into the aquarium, the females will swim through the yard and lay a few eggs which the male will then fertilize. The eggs can then be collected and raised in a separate aquarium which makes for a great hands-on experience. Males tend to have larger fins and a slightly deeper body compared to the smaller shape of females. 

Tank Recommendations for your Bleher’s Rainbow

Bleher’s rainbows on average do reach around 11 cm but can get slightly larger than this as well. They are an incredibly active species. A trio of one male and 2 females can be kept in a 90-litre aquarium however larger will always be better. The blend of colours this fish has will look absolutely stunning against green aquarium plants, the fish will also love the cover that a planted aquarium provides. They are mostly mid to top water-dwelling fish so the choice of substrate and aquarium hardscape is not a major concern. Rainbowfish, in general, are however excellent jumpers so a tight-fitting lid is a must for the aquarium. These are also tropical fish that are best kept at 24-26 degrees.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The Bleher’s rainbowfish is incredibly peaceful but due to their speed, they may potentially outcompete slow or bottom-dwelling tank mates. 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 may prey on the bleher’s rainbow or any incredibly small species such as shrimp which may be eaten by the rainbow fish 

Feeding your Bleher’s Rainbow

Bleher’s rainbowfish will take to aquarium foods very easily. They can be fed a range of pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. Giving them a varied diet ensures that they have optimal nutrition. The ideal diet would be good quality floating food, supplemented with frozen bloodworms or black worms or even live foods like baby brine shrimp or micro worms.