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Boeseman's Rainbowfish
Boeseman's Rainbowfish
Origin
Indonesia
Habitat Size
50-150 Liters
Water Type
Fresh Water
Water Temperature
24º-28ºC
Cost in India
₹80 - ₹100
Size
4 - 6 inches (Small)
Diet
Omnivore
by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 2 Dec 2025
Boeseman's Rainbowfish Guide
The Boeseman's Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia boesemani) is a freshwater fish that truly stands out. The male fish is especially striking: the front half of its body is a shimmering blue or purple, while the back half glows orange or red. It is quite popular among aquarium hobbyists thanks to its bright colors and its lively, active nature. It’s unique because the bicolored body is rarely seen in other rainbowfish species.
Origin
- This fish is found only in a small area of West Papua in Indonesia, specifically in the lakes (the Ayamaru Lakes) and their streams in the Bird’s Head Peninsula region
- Because its natural range is limited, it is considered endangered in the wild
- Its name honors the Dutch ichthyologist Marinus Boeseman, who collected the first specimens
Boeseman's Rainbowfish Temperament
- This species is peaceful and enjoys being in a school (group) rather than alone
- It is active, swims in the middle to upper parts of the water column, and likes open space for movement
- Because it is quite vibrant and active, shy or slow-moving fish might be stressed if kept with it
Compatibility
Boeseman's Rainbowfish Good Tankmates
- Other non-aggressive, similarly sized fishes such as:
- Other rainbowfish species
- Peaceful barbs
- Danios
- Larger tetras
- Loaches
- Corydoras Catfish
- Rift Lake Cichlids
- Assassin Snails
- Ghost Shrimp
Avoid
- Very small shrimp or tiny fish that can fit into its mouth (it may see them as food)
- Overly aggressive species that might bully it
Boeseman's Rainbowfish Price in India
- In India, the Boeseman’s Rainbowfish is around ₹150 for 1.7 inches or ₹250 for 2.5 inches in size
- A healthy juvenile might be around ₹150–₹300, depending on size, color, and age
Characteristics
Temperament
Aggressive
Friendly
Compatibility with other fishes
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Habitat Size
Small
Large
Boeseman's Rainbowfish Habitat Requirements
Initial Setup Cost
₹4,000 - ₹12,000
Water Temperature
24º -28ºC
Water Type
Fresh Water
PH Level
6.5 - 7.5
Tank Type
- Freshwater (not salt or brackish) environment
Boeseman's Rainbowfish Aquarium Size
- Minimum recommended for a small group: a tank that is long enough to allow active swimming (e.g., ~1.2 m / 4 ft length) once the fish are adults.
- In Indian literature, tanks of about 120 liters (~30 gallons) or more are suggested.
Water Conditions
- Temperature range: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH level: Slightly alkaline to neutral; around 6.5-8, possible though optimal tends toward around 7.0-8.0.
- Water hardness (dGH): They can handle moderate to hard water, e.g., 8-20 °dGH suggested.
Boeseman's Rainbowfish Environment Needs
- Plants: A good number of aquatic plants provide shelter and mimic their natural habitat.
- Open swimming space: Since they are active swimmers, you should leave plenty of open space.
- Substrate & décor: A smoother substrate, some roots or driftwood, and a lid on the tank (they may jump).
Essential Equipment
Aquarium tank
Water filter
Light
Substrate
Decor
Boeseman's Rainbowfish Nutritional Guide
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹80 - ₹ 100
Diet Type
- Omnivore (they eat both plant matter and meaty foods)
Boeseman's Rainbowfish Suitable Foods
- High-quality flakes or pellets formulated for tropical fish.
- Frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
- Occasionally, vegetable matter or algae-based food to balance.
Feeding Frequency & Tips
- Feed small portions that they finish within ~2 minutes rather than piling up food.
- Offer a mix of food types (dry + frozen/live) to keep colors strong and health good.
- Avoid overfeeding since leftovers decay and pollute the water.
Boeseman's Rainbowfish Health & Care
Common Health Issues
Fin rot
White spot / ick
Fungus
Columnaris (cotton wool-like growth on the skin)
Parasitic infections
Swim bladder inflammation
Signs of good health
Active
Bright coloration
Good apetite
Signs of sickness
Loss of appetite
Lethargic behaviour
Dull coloring
Tattered fins
White growths
Boeseman's Rainbowfish Common Health Issues:
Columnaris (also called “cotton-mouth” or “mouth fungus”)
Boeseman's rainbowfish can become infected with a bacterial disease. Symptoms are white or grey patches at the mouth, fins, or body, ragged fins, or a cottony film-like covering. The disease is contagious and could become fatal if not treated. It is usually treated with increased water quality, decreased stress, and appropriate antibacterial medication as indicated for aquariums. Keeping the water clean and well filtered and removing rotting food helps prevent this disease.
Ulcers and skin wounds
The fish may be injured by sharp edges or pointy objects in the tank, by aggressive tankmates, and are thus susceptible to infection. This injury may cause the fish to scratch itself or have missing scales on open wounds. To treat the fish, isolate it in quarantine, clean the wound, maintain water quality well, and treat with an appropriate antibacterial if necessary. If someone treats it early, the infection will likely not spread to other fish.
Boeseman's Rainbowfish General Health Tips
- Maintaining consistent water parameters like temperature, pH, and hardness, and keeping the water clean, is important for keeping Boeseman's Rainbowfish.
- For keeping fish alive and healthy, ensure that at least 6 fish are in groups, give a lot of swimming space, a balanced diet, and stable water chemistry.
- New fish should undergo quarantine before introduction into the tank. This can lower disease risk.
- Good husbandry is one of the best defenses, including keeping the tank clean with a good filter and no overcrowding.
Prerequisites for a Fish
Adequate tank space
Cleanliness
Effort & commitment
Enriching Environment
Written by
Happy Pet TeamAuthor
Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Boeseman's Rainbowfish should be kept together?
Since they are schooling fish, Boeseman's Rainbowfish should only be kept in groups of six or more. Keeping them in larger groups not only enhances their natural behavior but also reduces stress and aggression within the school.
What should I feed Boeseman's Rainbowfish?
Boeseman's Rainbowfish are omnivores and require a varied diet. For added variety and vital nutrients, they can occasionally be fed live or frozen delicacies like brine shrimp, bloodworms, or daphnia in addition to their regular diet of premium flakes or pellets.
What size tank do Boeseman's Rainbowfish need?
An expansive aquarium with lots of swimming space is ideal for the growth of Boeseman's Rainbowfish. A small school of these fish should fit nicely in a tank that is at least 50 liters in size.