Boeseman’s Rainbowfish
Genus: Melanotaenia
Species: M. boesemani
Maximum Size: 3" (females), 4" (males)
Aggression: Low, Social
Temperature: 80-86 F
pH: 7-8
Hardness: 10-20 dH
Brackish Tolerance: 1.000-1.003
Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons
Feeding: High quality pellets and flake, frozen brine shrimp, Mysis shrimp, krill
Notes: Boeseman’s Rainbowfish are colorful fish that are most often sold as somewhat drab juveniles. While they develop color with age, another aspect to keep in mind is that these fish show off their best colors when kept in a large group with a ratio of about 1:1 males to females. Due to their very active behavior, they need a somewhat larger tank than other fish of similar size. Robust filtration (about 8-10 times tank turnover per hour) may also help coloration.
The Boeseman’s Rainbowfish is extremely peaceful and can be kept with a large variety of fish that are similar in size and temperament; the Poeciliid livebearers, X Ray Tetras, Kribensis, Ropefish, and Halfbeaks all make good companions. They are not likely to consume any but the smallest invertebrates like Cherry and Bee shrimps. These fish should not be kept with very aggressive or piscivorous fish like larger Cichlids and large Archerfish.
A tank for these fish should have a good ratio of heavily planted areas and open swimming space. These fish do not destroy or damage plants and will appreciate the inclusion of any large, bushy plants. Other tank decor is somewhat immaterial.
Sources
Melanotaenia boesemani - Boeseman’s Rainbowfish, Seriously Fish
Rainbowfish (family Melanotaenidae), Neale Monks
FAQs on the Rainbowfishes behavior, Wetwebmedia
