Species profile
Forktail Blue-eye
Pseudomugil furcatus
Peaceful
Easy care
80 L minimum aquarium
4–5.5 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 10
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Active, peaceful blue-eye from clearer, more mineral-rich streams than many small rainbowfish.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–28 °C
pH
7–8
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: 10
Tank zone
Top mid
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.55
Constantly active shoaler. Males display without serious territoriality when kept in a good-sized group.
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
80 L
Minimum footprint
80 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Pseudomugil furcatus
Alternative names
Forktail Blue-eye, Forktail Rainbowfish
Native range
Papua New Guinea, primarily the Popondetta region.
Natural habitat
Clear rainforest streams with gentle-to-moderate current. Use clean oxygenated water, plants and open swimming room.
Diet & feeding
Small quality dry foods with frequent live/frozen micro-invertebrates.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are more colourful with elongated fins; females are smaller-finned and plainer.
Breeding
Daily plant/mop spawner; adhesive eggs develop separately from adults for best survival.