Trifasciatus Rainbow
Scientific Name: Melanotaenia trifasciata
Recommended Aquarium: 50+ Gallons
Approx. Adult Size: 4 to 5 inches
Temperament: Peaceful
Ease of Care: Easy
Diet: Omnivore
Native Waters: Australia
This Rainbow is collected from several streams in Australia and shows different color morphs depending on the collection point. (It may eventually be determined that these are different species.) Generally the Trifasciatus grows to about 4-5 inches in length with a base silver/blue body color with a horizontal stripe through the eye to the base of the tail. The male will usually have more color, with red/orange color in the anal and dorsal fins. Unfortunately there are several different color morphs of this Rainbow that might actually be different species. The Trifasciatus prefers a neutral pH and plant cover, though as a schooling fish it will require a fair amount of open swimming space. As an omnivore, it will eat most prepared aquarium foods. Very hardy, the Rainbow makes a great community fish and can be kept with larger fish.
Approximate arrival size for Australian Rainbow:
2 to 3 inches