Lake Kutubu Rainbowfish

Melanotaeniidae sp.

Lake Kutubu Rainbowfish (Melanotaeniidae sp.) — Intermediate care, Peaceful, under Rainbowfish. Minimum tank in the app: 29 US gal min; aim for 68–77°F and pH 6.5–8. The Lake Kutubu Rainbowfish is ideal for aquarists seeking an active and visually striking species that thrives in well-planned community settings.

Lake Kutubu Rainbowfish (Melanotaeniidae sp.) in a planted freshwater aquarium
Care levelIntermediate
TemperamentPeaceful
Min tank size29 US gal min
pH range6.5–8
Temperature68–77°F
Max size4.3 in (11.0 cm)
Captive lifespan6–10 years
SchoolingYes · 6+ recommended

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

Natural distribution

Australia / New Guinea

  • Australia & Oceania

Regional colours match the stocking calculator’s origin map.

Lake Kutubu Rainbowfish Tank Setup

Aim for a spacious tank with a minimum volume of 110 liters, providing both open swimming areas and strategic cover using plants and decorations to mimic their natural habitat. Moderate water flow and gentle lighting will encourage their active nature while promoting vibrant colors. A sandy or fine gravel substrate can facilitate foraging behavior and ensure comfort.

What Do Lake Kutubu Rainbowfishs Eat?

As omnivores, they display moderate feeding speeds but can be competitive, especially in mixed-species tanks. A varied diet including high-quality flakes, pellets, and occasional live or frozen foods will enhance their health and coloration.

Lake Kutubu Rainbowfish Tank Mates

Lake Kutubu Rainbowfish pair well with similarly sized, non-aggressive species that occupy mid to upper water columns, such as small tetras and peaceful barbs. Avoid overly aggressive or fin-nipping species that could stress them, and ensure that shoaling dynamics are maintained both within their group and with tank mates. Intraspecies harmony flourishes in larger groups, minimizing stress-related behaviors.

Are Lake Kutubu Rainbowfishs Good for Beginners?

We rate this as intermediate. Budget time for testing, maintenance, and watching behaviour if the water looks fine but the fish do not. Aquarists often underestimate the need for group size, leading to isolation and stress among individual fish. neglecting to create a balanced environment with both open space and hiding spots can exacerbate aggression and anxiety.

Building a community? Run the full list through the stocking calculator before you add anything else.

Log tests and reminders in App-aquatic—free, same data you see here.