Parkinson Rainbowfish 2"

 

🐟 Parkinson Rainbowfish Care Sheet

🔹 Overview

Category	Details
Scientific Name	Melanotaenia parkinsoni
Common Name	Parkinson Rainbowfish
Origin	Southern Papua New Guinea
Adult Size	12–15 cm (4.7–6 in)
Lifespan	5–8 years
Temperament	Peaceful, active schooling fish
Tank Level	Mid to upper

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🔹 Tank Setup

Parameter	Ideal Range
Tank Size	100+ liters (25+ gallons) for a small school
Temperature	24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
pH	6.5–7.5
Hardness	5–15 dGH
Substrate	Sand or fine gravel
Decor	Plants, driftwood, open swimming areas
Lighting	Moderate to bright
Filtration	Efficient filtration with moderate water flow

Tips:

• Keep in groups of at least 6–8 to maintain natural schooling behavior.

• Provide a mix of plants and open swimming space for comfort and natural display.

• Regular water changes enhance color and overall health.

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🔹 Diet

• Type: Omnivorous

• Best Foods: High-quality flakes or pellets, live/frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms), and occasional vegetable matter.

• Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times daily in small portions.

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🔹 Behavior & Compatibility

• Very peaceful and active; ideal for community tanks with other peaceful fish of similar size.

• Males display bright red and orange hues when healthy and in a school.

• Enjoy mid to upper tank levels and open swimming areas.

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🧭 Tank Mate Guide

✅ Compatible Species

• Other rainbowfish species

• Peaceful tetras (cardinal, neon, ember)

• Corydoras catfish

• Gouramis (peaceful varieties)

⚠️ Avoid or Use Caution With

• Aggressive or territorial fish

• Very small fish that may be harassed

• Fast-moving or boisterous fish that may stress them

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🐣 Breeding Info

• Spawning Method: Egg scatterers; fine-leaved plants or spawning mops recommended.

• Parental Care: None; adults may eat eggs.

• Fry Care: Feed infusoria or liquid fry food, then baby brine shrimp.

• Requires clean water and stable parameters for successful breeding.

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🌿 Fun Facts

• Popular centerpiece fish due to brilliant red-orange coloration in males.

• Hardy and adaptable, ideal for well-planted community aquariums.

• One of the largest and most visually striking rainbowfish species.