Species profile
Kamaka Rainbowfish
Melanotaenia kamaka
Peaceful
Moderate care
150 L minimum aquarium
7–9 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Keep as a proper shoal with excellent water quality and a secure lid. Long footprint is more useful than extra tank height.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–28 °C
pH
6.8–8.2
GH
5–15 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: 8
Tank zone
Top mid
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
1.1
Active peaceful rainbowfish. A larger group encourages natural male display and reduces individual chasing.
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
5–8 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
150 L
Minimum footprint
100 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Melanotaenia kamaka
Alternative names
Kamaka Rainbowfish, Blue Kamaka Rainbowfish
Native range
Lake Kamakawaiar area of western New Guinea, Indonesia.
Natural habitat
Lake margins and associated freshwater habitats with aquatic vegetation and clear, well-oxygenated water.
Diet & feeding
Small insects, crustaceans, algae and plant material; use varied flakes/pellets plus frozen/live foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males become deeper-bodied with stronger blue coloration and display fins; females are slimmer/plainer.
Breeding
Plant-spawning egg scatterer; eggs are deposited among fine vegetation or spawning mops and develop without parental care.