Species profile
Parkinson's Rainbowfish
Melanotaenia parkinsoni
Peaceful
Moderate care
250 L minimum aquarium
10–15 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 6
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Large active rainbowfish; the old 220 L entry did not express the more important 120 cm swimming length.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
26–30 °C
pH
6.5–8
GH
8–18 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 6
Tank zone
Top mid
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
None
Bioload factor
1.5
Peaceful but very active. Best displayed in a mixed-sex group of six or more.
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
250 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 45 cm
Accepted scientific name
Melanotaenia parkinsoni
Native range
Southern Papua New Guinea, between the Kemp Welsh River region and Milne Bay.
Natural habitat
Clear tropical streams and associated waters; in aquaria use a 120 cm+ tank with open swimming space, planted margins, good oxygenation and a tight lid.
Diet & feeding
Quality dry foods with regular frozen/live invertebrates and some plant matter.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males are larger, deeper-bodied and more intensely yellow-orange than females.
Breeding
Non-guarding egg scatterer/continual spawner; adhesive eggs are deposited among fine plants or spawning mops.