Species profile
Boesemani Rainbowfish
Melanotaenia boesemani
Peaceful
Easy care
250 L minimum aquarium
9–13 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 6
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Large, active rainbowfish that needs a four-foot swimming length and a group. Adults become dramatically more colourful than juveniles.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
26–30 °C
pH
6.5–8
GH
Up to 20 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
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
2
Peaceful but energetic. Keep six or more with open swimming space and a secure lid; choose tankmates that also tolerate the relatively warm recommended temperature.
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
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
250 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 45 cm
Accepted scientific name
Melanotaenia boesemani
Alternative names
Boeseman's Rainbowfish
Native range
Ajamaru Lakes region and Aitinjo Lake, Vogelkop Peninsula, western New Guinea, Indonesia.
Natural habitat
Lake and tributary habitats with dense vegetation. Use plants along the back/sides with a large open central swimming area and clean well-filtered water.
Diet & feeding
Feed quality flakes/micro-pellets plus small frozen/live foods and some plant-based food.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Adult males are larger, deeper-bodied and much more intensely coloured; females are smaller and comparatively subdued.
Breeding
Continual egg scatterer. Adhesive eggs are deposited over plants or spawning mops across many days; adults may eat eggs.