Species profile
Celebes Rainbowfish
Marosatherina ladigesi
Peaceful
Moderate care
120 L minimum aquarium
6–8 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Elegant Sulawesi rainbowfish that needs clean, stable, well-oxygenated water and should not be subjected to abrupt chemistry changes.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–28 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH
Up to 25 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 8
Tank zone
Top mid
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
1
Peaceful schooling fish. Keep a generous group and avoid aggressive tankmates.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
120 L
Minimum footprint
90 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Marosatherina ladigesi
Alternative names
Celebes Rainbowfish, Celebes Sailfin, Telmatherina ladigesi
Native range
South Sulawesi, Indonesia.
Natural habitat
Clear streams and estuarine-influenced freshwater systems in Sulawesi; aquarium water should be well oxygenated and very clean.
Diet & feeding
Feeds on small invertebrates and other tiny foods; use appropriately sized prepared and frozen/live fare.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males develop longer/ornate fins and stronger colour; females are plainer and fuller-bodied.
Breeding
Egg scatterer; adhesive eggs are placed among fine vegetation and hatch over an extended period.