Fish
Red Rainbowfish
Glossolepis incisus
Origin: The red rainbowfish is endemic to Lake Sentani and adjacent rivers in northern New Guinea (Papua Province, Indonesia). Lake Sentani lies near Jayapura at approximately 75 m above sea level and is characterized by clear, slightly alkaline water.
Also known as: Salmon-red rainbowfish, Glossolepis incisus
Fact sheet
- Size
- 15 cm
- Lifespan
- 8 years
- Minimum tank size
- 150 L
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C
- pH
- 7–8
- Hardness GH
- 8–15 °dH
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Social behavior
- Schooling
- Swimming zone
- Middle, Top
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Jumps out
- Yes
- Eats plants
- No
Overview
The red rainbowfish is one of the most visually striking freshwater aquarium species. Mature males develop an intense red coloration that peaks during spawning condition. Females are olive-brown with a silver sheen. The species is active and fast-moving, requiring a spacious aquarium. Relatively peaceful, though males compete — keep a female-biased group. It looks spectacular in a well-planted tank with good lighting. A carotenoid-rich diet is key to maintaining peak male coloration.
Appearance
The body is moderately deep and elongated, typical of rainbowfish. Males are vivid red; intensity depends on age, diet, and health. The dorsal and anal fins are large. Females are olive-yellow to silvery-brown. Both sexes have two dorsal fins. Adult males reach 12–15 cm; females are slightly smaller.
Care
House in a tank of at least 150 L with good filtration and moderate flow. Temperature 22–28 °C, pH 7.0–8.0, GH 8–15. Live plants are recommended. Quality lighting enhances male coloration. Weekly water changes of 25–30%.
Feeding
Omnivorous. Accepts quality rainbowfish pellets, flakes, live or frozen brine shrimp, bloodworm, and daphnia. Feed twice daily. A carotenoid-rich diet noticeably enhances male red intensity.
Compatibility
Peaceful. Gets along with other rainbowfish, larger tetras, danios, and calm cichlids. Males may compete, so a female-heavy ratio is advised.
Breeding
Spawning triggered by improved feeding and slight temperature rise. Eggs deposited on plants or spawning mops. Fry hatch in 7–10 days; first foods are fine live foods or powdered fry food.
Fun facts
The red rainbowfish is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN due to its restricted range. The entire aquarium population descends from specimens collected in the 1950s. Male coloration intensifies significantly with a carotenoid-rich diet.