Species profile
Madagascar Rainbowfish
Bedotia madagascariensis
Peaceful
Moderate care
240 L minimum aquarium
8–10 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Aquarium stock historically sold as Bedotia geayi is overwhelmingly the distinct species B. madagascariensis. True B. geayi is uncommon in the hobby.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
20–25 °C
pH
6.5–8
GH
5–18 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
1.2
Peaceful but active shoaling fish. Maintain a substantial group in a long aquarium with shaded cover and open swimming space.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
5–10 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
240 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Bedotia madagascariensis
Alternative names
Madagascar Rainbowfish, Madagascan Rainbowfish, Bedotia geayi (historic aquarium misidentification)
Native range
Eastern Madagascar, principally drainages around the Rianila/Ivoloina region.
Natural habitat
Shaded forest streams and connected waters with overhanging vegetation, woody cover and relatively gentle current; clean water is important.
Diet & feeding
Aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates plus plant material; accepts quality flakes/pellets with frozen/live foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are more intensely coloured with stronger red/black fin patterning; females are generally plainer and fuller-bodied.
Breeding
Plant-spawning egg scatterer. Eggs are deposited among fine vegetation or spawning mops over a period of days; adults may eat eggs or fry.