Jakora Rainbowfish

Jakora Rainbowfish ( Melanotaenia jakora )

A recently described dwarf rainbowfish from the tannin-stained Kali Jakora stream in the Bird’s Head Peninsula of West Papua, Indonesia. Formerly known in the hobby as the “Sparkle Rainbowfish,” it is prized for its compact size and subtle but beautiful iridescent coloration.

• Maximum Size: Reaches approximately 6–8 cm (2.4–3.1 inches) total length.
• Appearance: Body with a reflective blue shine and a solid midlateral stripe. Males show subtle iridescent blue tones outlined with pink highlights. When fully displaying or sparring, mature males can develop yellow on the belly.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a school.
• Water Parameters: 75–79°F (24–26°C), pH 5.5–7.0 (thrives in soft, acidic blackwater conditions but adaptable to neutral water).
• Diet: Omnivorous. Accepts high-quality flakes, micro-pellets, frozen foods, and live foods such as brine shrimp and daphnia.
• Behavior: Peaceful, active schooling fish. Best kept in groups with some cover.

IUCN Status: Not formally assessed (recently described species).