Kali Tawa

Kali Tawa Rainbowfish ( Melanotaenia sp. "Kali Tawa" )

An undescribed rainbowfish from the Kali Tawa stream near the village of Lobo in the Bird’s Head Peninsula of West Papua, Indonesia. It was discovered relatively recently and has quickly become one of the most popular small rainbowfish in the aquarium hobby due to its compact size and consistent coloration.

• Maximum Size: Reaches approximately 6–8 cm (2.4–3.1 inches) total length.
• Appearance: Males have a rich turquoise-blue body with copper stripes, a black vertical ink-like mark, and a bold red tail. Coloration remains attractive even at rest and intensifies significantly during displays and courtship. Females are more subdued but still show attractive patterning.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: Minimum 30–40 gallons for a school, with good swimming space.
• Water Parameters: 74–80°F (23–27°C), pH 6.5–7.8, soft to moderate hardness. Moderate water movement is appreciated.
• Diet: Omnivorous. Accepts high-quality flakes, micro-pellets, frozen foods, and live foods such as brine shrimp and daphnia.
• Behavior: Active, peaceful schooling fish. Males can be boisterous when sparring or courting; provide cover for females. Best kept in groups.

IUCN Status: Not formally assessed (undescribed species).

Selling size: ~2"