Oyster Creek Rainbow 5cm

Oyster Creek - Rainbowfish

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 Oyster Creek Rainbowfish from the species Melanotaenia Duboulayi. For the rainbow fish enthusiasts out there, this is a new colour form of Melanotaenia Duboulayi rainbow and is probably the most northern found Duboulayi rainbow.

The Oyster Creek rainbowfish has the classic torpedo-like body shape with a pointed face. The colours on this variant are absolutely stunning, the base colour is a creamy peal tone overlaid with gold and fluro green scales from head to tail. The most abundant yellow concentration is towards the tail end and when mature its almost glowing as the light reflects off it. The fins all sport a deep red that contrasts amazingly against the other colours on the Oyster Creek rainbowfish. What’s fascinating is the hardiness of these species, they can be kept in an unseating aquarium year round as their temperature range is from 11 - 38 degrees Celsius, they are also hardy and make for an amazing entry level rainbowfish.

Breeding these Rainbowfish in captivity is a rewarding experience as they will readily spawning 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 Oyster Creek Rainbowfish

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 and temperatures between 24-28°C.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Oyster 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 and smaller plecostomus species also make good companions, as do dwarf cichlids and gouramis.

Sometimes Compatible

Convict cichlids, pearsi cichlids, 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 Oyster Creek Rainbowfish

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.