Barred Rainbowfish 'Mamberamo'

Barred Rainbowfish (Chilatherina fasciata)

A colorful freshwater rainbowfish from the lowland tributaries and hilly terrain of New Guinea. Known for its distinctive barred pattern and bronze head tint in breeding males, this species is a hardy and attractive addition to the aquarium hobby.

Key Features

• Maximum Size: 11.0 cm / ~4.3 inches SL.
• Appearance: Fusiform body. Brownish to greenish upper body with iridescent reflections including striking lavender hues, silvery to yellowish underside, and a dark midlateral stripe. Males often display multiple dark bars on the flanks and a bronze or reddish-orange tint on the top of the head during spawning.
• Fin Details: Dorsal spines 5–8, dorsal soft rays 11–16; anal spines 1, anal soft rays 21–28.

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; 82–90°F (28–32°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: Least Concern (LC)

Add iridescent greenish tones with beautiful lavender hues, dark bars, and bronze head flashes to your aquarium with the beautiful Barred Rainbowfish!