Orange Parkinsoni Rainbow 5cm

Orange Parkinsoni Rainbow

The Orange Parkinsoni Rainbow is a striking and highly active species that make for a stunning centerpiece in freshwater aquariums. Native to Papua New Guinea, this species is well-known for its bold colouration, schooling behaviour, and dynamic swimming style. As with most rainbowfish, they are peaceful, hardy, and adapt well to a variety of setups, making them a fantastic choice for both experienced and beginner aquarists looking for a vibrant addition to their tank.

Parkinsoni Rainbows display a sleek, elongated body with an iridescent silver to pale blue base that contrasts sharply with the deep orange blotches on their fins and lower sides. These fiery markings intensify as the fish matures, especially in dominant males, which develop broader, more vibrant patches. They can reach a maximum size of 12-14 cm, making them one of the larger rainbowfish species. Their colours are most pronounced when kept in larger schools of six or more, as this encourages natural social behaviours and reduces stress.

Breeding is relatively straightforward in a well-maintained environment. They are egg scatterers, typically spawning among fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. Males display heightened colouration and actively court females by performing quick, darting movements. Once eggs are laid, removing the adults is recommended, as they do not provide parental care.

Tank Recommendations for your Orange Parkinsoni Rainbow

A minimum tank size of 200 litres is recommended to accommodate a group and their active swimming nature. A long tank layout with open swimming areas and planted sections provides an ideal environment. They prefer moderate water flow and thrive in well-oxygenated setups. A mix of driftwood, river stones, and hardy plants such as Vallisneria or Anubias will mimic their natural habitat while allowing for optimal movement.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Parkinsoni Rainbows are peaceful but energetic, making them well-suited for a wide range of community fish.

Usually Compatible

Other rainbowfish species, larger tetras, barbs, Corydoras, loaches, and peaceful cichlids such as keyhole cichlids or festivums.

Sometimes Compatible

Angelfish, discus, and gouramis only in spacious setups where the high energy rainbowfish won't stress more docile species.

Rarely Compatible

Large, aggressive cichlids such as Oscars, Green Terrors, or jaguar cichlids.

Feeding your Sanke Koi Swordtail

These fish are omnivorous and require a balanced diet to maintain their vibrant colours. They readily accept high-quality flakes, pellets, and frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. A diet rich in natural colour enhancers like spirulina and carotenoid-based foods will help bring out their deep orange hues. Regular feedings of small live or frozen invertebrates will also encourage natural foraging behaviour.