Duboulay's Rainbow-Blue Kangaroo CK 5cm

Duboulay's Rainbow - Blue Kangaroo CK

Rainbowfish are arguably the fish that put Australia on the map, what's fascinating about them is that a single species can have dozens of naturally occurring colour variations. These are a result of slightly different genetic groups due to differences in geographical location, one amazing example of this is the Kangaroo Creek Rainbowfish from the species Melanotania Duboulayi. For the rainbow fish enthusiasts, these will be a great unique addition as they are not commonly seen.

The Kangaroo Creek rainbowfish has the classic torpedo-like body shape with a pointed face. These fish are often known as the blue kangaroo creek rainbowfish due to the higher levels of metallic blue throughout their body which is quite different from the other duboulayi strains. Normally duboulayi rainbows are known for their striking red and yellow tones and whilst the Kangaroo Creek has these colours the blue does shine though. The lateral gold and fluro green scales running from head to tail are surrounded by a beautiful sea blue colouration deepening with age. What's fascinating is the hardiness of these species, depending on your location they can be kept unheated year round as these fish can tolerate a temperature range between 22 - 28 degrees Celsius.

Breeding these Rainbowfish in captivity is a rewarding experience as they will readily spawn in well-maintained aquariums. A typical breeding setup includes slightly softer and more acidic water conditions than their regular tank, with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for the females to deposit their eggs. Post-spawning, parents may need to be removed to prevent egg predation, and the fry can be raised on a diet of infusoria or finely crushed flake food until they are large enough to accept larger feed.

Tank Recommendations for your Duboulay's Rainbow - Blue Kangaroo CK
A spacious aquarium is essential for keeping these rainbowfish, with a recommended minimum size of 100 litres to accommodate a school and allow for their active swimming behaviour. The tank should mimic their natural habitat, featuring a combination of dense plant areas and open swimming spaces. The substrate can vary, but sandy or fine gravel substrates are preferable. Water conditions should be kept clean and stable, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.

Suitable Tank Buddies
Kangaroo Creek rainbowfish are peaceful and adaptable, making them well-suited to a community tank with other similarly sized and temperament species.

Usually Compatible
Small to medium-sized tetras, barbs, danios, and other rainbowfish species. Peaceful bottom dwellers like corydoras, smaller plecostomus, and even dwarf cichlids.

Sometimes Compatible
Convict cichlids, geophagus, and other peaceful or territorial species.

Rarely Compatible
Large, aggressive fish that might see rainbowfish as competitors or prey, such as larger cichlids, or species known for fin-nipping, could harass the rainbowfish.

Feeding your Duboulay's Rainbow - Blue Kangaroo CK
Melanotaenia species are omnivores that will love a varied, protein-rich diet. A combination of high-quality flake food, pellets designed for freshwater fish, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms will ensure your rainbowfish are receiving a balanced diet.