Bleher's Rainbowfish

Bleher's Rainbowfish (Chilatherina bleheri)

A rare and stunning freshwater rainbowfish endemic to Lake Holmes (Danau Bira) in the lower Mamberamo River system of Irian Jaya (West Papua), Indonesia. Named in honor of the legendary German ichthyologist, explorer, and aquarium pioneer Heiko Bleher, who has discovered and introduced numerous rainbowfish species to science and the global hobby. Prized for its sparkling colors and elegant fins, this species is a true collector’s gem from a single highland lake.

Key Features

• Maximum Size: 12.0 cm / ~4.7 inches SL.
• Appearance: Sleek, fusiform body. Sparkling silver-white base with pastel green, yellow, and blue iridescence. Males develop vibrant orange-red tones in the caudal fin, yellow accents on the head and shoulders, and deeper bodies with extended dorsal fins.
• Fin Details: Dorsal spines 5–7, dorsal soft rays 11–16; anal spines 1, anal soft rays 21–26.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons for a small school (6 or more recommended for best coloration and natural behavior).
• Water Parameters: Tropical freshwater; 73–81°F (23–27°C), pH 7.0–8.0, moderate hardness.
• Diet: Omnivorous — readily accepts high-quality flakes, pellets, frozen, and live foods.
• Behavior: Peaceful, active mid-to-upper water column schooling fish. Excellent for planted community tanks with similarly sized, non-aggressive companions. Provide a tight-fitting lid as rainbowfishes are known to jump.

IUCN Status Endangered (EN)

Add sparkling iridescent colors and elegant orange-red fins to your aquarium with the beautiful Bleher's Rainbowfish!