Species profile
Red Rainbowfish
Glossolepis incisa
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 peaceful Lake Sentani rainbowfish. A mixed-sex group in a four-foot planted aquarium produces the best colour and natural display behaviour.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–28 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
Up to 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
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
2.3
Active shoaler. Keep six or more with similarly peaceful tankmates, open swimming room and a secure cover.
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
Glossolepis incisa
Alternative names
Red Irian Rainbowfish, Glossolepis incisus
Native range
Lake Sentani, near Jayapura, northern New Guinea, Indonesia.
Natural habitat
Adults and juveniles use shoreline/littoral habitat rich in aquatic and overhanging vegetation. Provide plants around the margins and open swimming space.
Diet & feeding
Feed quality flakes/granules with green foods and varied small frozen/live invertebrates.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males become deep-bodied and intense red; females remain smaller and silvery/olive.
Breeding
Continual egg scatterer. Eggs are deposited among fine plants or spawning mops over an extended period and hatch after several days.