Sentani Rainbowfish

Sentani Rainbowfish (Chilatherina sentaniensis)

A rare and beautiful freshwater rainbowfish endemic exclusively to Lake Sentani in Irian Jaya (West Papua), Indonesia. Prized for its striking color transition and rarity in the aquarium hobby, this species is one of the most endangered rainbowfishes due to its extremely limited natural range.

Key Features

• Maximum Size: 10.0 cm / ~4 inches SL.
• Appearance: Silvery-blue to greenish upper body fading to vibrant orange or red on the sides and fins, especially brilliant in males.
• Fin Details: Dorsal spines 5–7, dorsal soft rays 9–12; 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; 75–82°F (24–28°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 Critically Endangered (CR)

Add silvery-blue iridescence transitioning to vibrant orange-red with the beautiful Sentani Rainbowfish!