Delicate Blue-eye

Melanotaeniidae sp.

Delicate Blue-eye (Melanotaeniidae sp.) — Varies care, Peaceful, under Other. Minimum tank in the app: 19.8 US gal min; aim for 77–90°F and pH 6.5–7.5. The Delicate Blue-eye is a visually striking species that appeals to aquarists interested in mid-swimming dynamics and unique coloration.

Delicate Blue-eye (Melanotaeniidae sp.) in a planted freshwater aquarium
Care levelVaries
TemperamentPeaceful
Min tank size19.8 US gal min
pH range6.5–7.5
Temperature77–90°F
Max size2.2 in (5.5 cm)
Captive lifespan5–8 years
SchoolingNo

Captive lifespan reflects typical experience in a home aquarium, not maximum recorded age; genetics, sourcing, and care vary.

Natural distribution

Australia

  • Australia & Oceania

Regional colours match the stocking calculator’s origin map.

Delicate Blue-eye Tank Setup

To foster a healthy environment, aim for a balance between open swimming space and adequate cover. Incorporate floating plants to diffuse light and create shaded areas, alongside varied substrate textures to encourage exploration. A moderate water flow will cater to their natural habits, while a well-structured layout with visual barriers can help reduce stress during territorial disputes.

What Do Delicate Blue-eyes Eat?

As omnivores, they respond well to a varied diet but can be competitive feeders. Provide high-quality flakes or pellets supplemented with live or frozen options to promote health and coloration.

Delicate Blue-eye Tank Mates

The Delicate Blue-eye pairs well with similarly-sized, non-aggressive species that occupy different swimming zones. Ideal companions include small tetras and peaceful rasboras. However, larger or overly active fish may provoke stress, and intraspecies interactions can lead to conflict if individuals are kept in insufficient numbers, so observe their behavior closely to prevent territorial disputes.

Are Delicate Blue-eyes Good for Beginners?

Care demand varies with setup and individual fish; use the numbers above as your baseline. Aquarists often underestimate the importance of environmental complexity, leading to stress and aggression in the Delicate Blue-eye. Overcrowding can exacerbate territorial behavior, while inadequate water quality or temperature fluctuations may lead to health issues.

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