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Black banded rainbowfish - Melanotaenia nigrans

Black banded rainbowfish - Melanotaenia nigrans

Scientific name: Melanotaenia nigrans

Common name: Black banded rainbowfish

Family: Melanotaeniidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 9 - 11 cm (3.54 - 4.33 inch)

014

Recommended pH range for the species: 5.5 - 7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 13°N (71.43 - 232.14ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 25 °C (71.6 - 77°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Oceania

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Top levels

Short Description

The Black Banded Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia nigrans) is a peaceful and attractive species native to the eastern waterways of Australia. Known for its shimmering scales and distinctive black banding, this rainbowfish thrives in well-maintained planted aquariums. Suitable for community setups, it adds vibrant activity to any tank while being easy to care for.

Origin

Melanotaenia nigrans is endemic to Australia, inhabiting freshwater rivers, streams, and occasionally brackish estuaries in the eastern part of the continent. These fish are adaptable to varying water conditions, reflecting their natural habitat diversity.

Tank Requirements

A tank of at least 100 liters (26 gallons) is recommended for a group of six or more Black Banded Rainbowfish. Maintain water temperatures between 22-25°C (71.6-77°F), a pH range of 5.5-7, and water hardness of 4-13°N (71.43-232.14 ppm). Provide a planted tank with plenty of open swimming spaces and gentle water flow to mimic their natural environment. Regular water changes are essential to maintain water quality.

Food and Feeding

Black Banded Rainbowfish are omnivorous and accept a variety of foods. Use quality flake or pellet food as a staple diet and supplement with live or frozen treats like brine shrimp, daphnia, and white worms. Feeding them a varied diet ensures optimal health and enhances their vibrant coloration.

Compatibility

These peaceful fish do well in community tanks with other similarly sized and non-aggressive species. Suitable tankmates include other rainbowfish, tetras, Corydoras catfish, and peaceful gouramis. Keeping them in groups of at least six helps reduce stress and encourages natural schooling behavior.

Sexing

Males are generally larger and more colorful than females, with pronounced dark edging on their fins. Females are slightly smaller and lack the intense coloration of males.

Breeding

Black Banded Rainbowfish are prolific spawners. To trigger breeding, provide spawning media such as Java moss or artificial spawning mops. Perform regular large water changes to simulate the rainy season and encourage spawning. Females can lay up to 50 eggs daily. After spawning, transfer the eggs to a separate tank to prevent predation. Depending on the temperature, the eggs hatch within a week. Feed the fry Infusoria initially and transition to newly hatched brine shrimp as they grow.

Lifespan

With proper care, Melanotaenia nigrans can live for 3-5 years. Maintaining stable water parameters and a balanced diet contributes to their longevity.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.

Black banded rainbowfish, picture 1 Black banded rainbowfish, picture 2 Black banded rainbowfish, picture 3 Black banded rainbowfish, picture 4

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