Yellow Rainbowfish

Lake Tebera Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia herbertaxelrodi)

Also known as the Yellow Rainbowfish

A large and impressive freshwater rainbowfish endemic to the highland Lake Tebera basin and surrounding streams in the Southern Highlands of Papua New Guinea. One of the larger Melanotaenia species, it is highly sought after for its size, striking male coloration, and robust nature.

Key Features

• Maximum Size: 15.0 cm / ~6 inches TL.
• Appearance: Robust, fusiform body. Males develop vibrant iridescent green, blue, and gold/yellow tones with orange accents in the fins and a dark midlateral stripe. Females are slimmer with more subdued silvery to pale golden hues.
• Fin Details: Dorsal spines 5–7, dorsal soft rays 10–16; anal spines 1, anal soft rays 17–25.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: Minimum 75–100 gallons for a small school (6 or more recommended for best coloration and natural behavior).
• Water Parameters: Tropical freshwater; 68–79°F (20–26°C), pH 7.5–8.0, 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 larger planted community tanks with similarly sized, non-aggressive companions. Provide a tight-fitting lid as they are known to jump.

IUCN Status: Vulnerable (VU)

Add vibrant iridescent colors and impressive size to your aquarium with the beautiful Lake Tebera Rainbowfish!