The Turquoise Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia lacustris) is a classic, peaceful rainbowfish known for its shimmering turquoise-blue body with subtle metallic highlights. Active and hardy, it makes an excellent schooling fish for larger community aquariums and looks best in a planted setup with open swimming space.
Aquarium Care
Tank size: 40 gallons+
Water parameters:
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Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
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pH: 7.0–8.0
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Hardness: soft to moderately hard
Social behavior:
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Peaceful, schooling fish
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Keep in groups of 6–10+ (male-heavy groups show best color)
Tankmates:
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Other rainbowfish
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Peaceful tetras
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Corydoras
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Small gobies or loaches
Avoid: fin-nippers or aggressive cichlids.