Madagascar Rainbowfish

• ExerciseHigh

  A busy, energetic swimmer — keep plenty of open swimming room.

• GroomingRoutine tank care

  Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment4–6 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Skin conditions

The Madagascar Rainbowfish (Bedotia geayi, often sold under the closely related name B. madagascariensis) comes from fast, clear rivers on the eastern side of Madagascar and reaches about 8 to 9 cm. It is not a true Melanotaenia rainbowfish but a member of the family Bedotiidae, found only on Madagascar. Its body is silvery-tan with a black lateral stripe, and males edge their tails and fins in red and black. Keep a group of six or more in a tank of 150 litres or more at 20-26C with a pH of 7.0 to 8.0, medium to hard water, brisk flow and strong oxygenation. It appreciates cooler water than most tropicals and does not thrive if kept above 26C long term. Feed flake, pellets and frequent live or frozen daphnia, bloodworm and brine shrimp. It is hardy and peaceful, though very active and fast. Many Madagascan freshwater fish are threatened by habitat loss, so buying captive-bred stock matters here more than for most aquarium species.

• How active is a Madagascar Rainbowfish?

  High. A busy, energetic swimmer — keep plenty of open swimming room.

• How much maintenance does a Madagascar Rainbowfish need?

  Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.

• What tank size does a Madagascar Rainbowfish need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Madagascar Rainbowfish a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Madagascar Rainbowfish live?

  4–6 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Madagascar Rainbowfish?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Skin conditions. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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