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Eastern Rainbowfish
Eastern Rainbowfish
Origin
Australia
Habitat Size
50-150 Liters
Water Type
Fresh Water
Water Temperature
24º-28ºC
Cost in India
₹80 - ₹150
Size
2 - 6 inches (Small)
Diet
Omnivore



by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 2 Dec 2025
Introduction of the Eastern Rainbowfish
The Eastern Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia splendida splendida) is a stunning Australian freshwater aquarium fish. With its shimmering green, blue, and golden metallic colour, it is a robust but colourful member for community aquariums. Schooling habits in school creates an amazing coloured and vivid spectacle.
Origin of the Eastern Rainbowfish
The Eastern Rainbowfish prefer living in the streams and rivers of Queensland, Australia. The fish dwell in clear, well-oxygenated water with extensive aquatic vegetative cover. The fish in the natural habitat feed on small insects, algae, and vegetation, and the caretakers should try to provide the same resource in the home aquarium for the maximum possible well-being.
Temperament of the Eastern Rainbowfish
They are friendly, social, and active and should be kept in a minimum of six or more schools. The males will color up during courting and chasing from time to time but never, ever aggressive. They are ideal with continuous swimming and plenty of activity to be maintained in big set-ups within communities.
Eastern Rainbowfish Compatibility with Other Fish
Eastern Rainbowfish would be an ideal addition to other non-aggressive fish such as:
- Tetras, rasboras, danios
- Other rainbowfish species
- Small loaches and Corydoras catfish
- Peaceful gouramis
Don't keep them with:
- Aggressive cichlids
- Predatory large fish
- Fin-nipping resident fish
Price Range of the Eastern Rainbowfish
Eastern Rainbowfish are moderately priced, ranging from ₹400–₹1,200 ($5–$15) based on size, sex, and color. Better-colored males are more expensive.
Characteristics
Temperament
Aggressive
Friendly
Compatibility with other fishes
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Habitat Size
Small
Large

Habitat Requirements of the Eastern Rainbowfish
Initial Setup Cost
₹4,000 - ₹12,000
Water Temperature
24º -28ºC
Water Type
Fresh Water
PH Level
6.5 - 8
Tank Setup
- Minimum capacity: 40 gallons
- Recommended: 55+ gallons per group
- Arrangement: open swimming areas with planted backgrounds
Water Conditions
- Temperature: 23–28°C (74–82°F)
- pH level: 6.5–8.0
- Water hardness: 8–15 dGH
Environmental Requirements
- Substrate: small gravel or sand
- Plants: floating plants, Vallisneria, Java fern
- Decor: caves, driftwood shelter
- Lighting: moderate to reflect their iridescent color
Essential Equipment
Aquarium tank
Water filter
Heater
Light
Substrate
Nutritional Guide to Eastern Rainbowfish
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹80 - ₹ 150
The Eastern Rainbowfish are omnivores and must be fed a mixture of foods:
- Staple: flakes or pellets of good quality
- Protein: bloodworms, mosquito larvae, brine shrimp
- Vegetables: Spirulina flakes, blanched spinach, zucchini
Tips on feeding:
- Feed them 2–3 times a day but in moderation
- Alternate between protein food and vegetable food for an equilibrated diet
- Dump excess food to allow clean water

Health & Care of the Eastern Rainbowfish
Common Health Issues
Fin rot
White spot / ick
Fungus
Columnaris (cotton wool-like growth on the skin)
Swim bladder disease
Velvet disease (yellowish-brown spots on the skin)
Signs of good health
Active
Bright coloration
Good apetite
Signs of sickness
Loss of appetite
Lethargic behaviour
Dull coloring
Tattered fins
Eastern Rainbowfish Common Diseases
Dropsy
Bacterial disease and organ failure disease.
- Signs: Bloated body, puffed pinecone-shaped scales, lethargy
- Treatment: Treat sick fish, use antibacterial, improve quality of water, and supply a high-fiber diet.
Eye Cloud (Cloudy Eye Disease)
Typically caused by poor water or body trauma.
- Signs: Whitish or cloudy eyes, poor eyesight, sluggish movement
- Cure: Improved water quality, aquarium salt, and antibiotics for infection
Lymphocystis (Viral Disease)
A virus that causes cauliflower-like tumors on the fins or body.
- Symptoms: Delicate white or pale pale pinkish pale nodules on skin and fins
- Cure: Not curable; usually self-limiting. Attempt best water conditions, reduction of stress, and quarantine heavily infected fish if need be
Prerequisites for a Fish
Adequate tank space
Cleanliness
Effort & commitment
Enriching Environment

Written by
Happy Pet TeamAuthor
Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What do Eastern Rainbowfish eat?
They are omnivorous and enjoy a varied diet of high-quality flakes, live or frozen foods, and vegetable matter.
How can I tell if my Eastern Rainbowfish is healthy?
A healthy Eastern Rainbowfish will be active, have bright coloration, and display a good appetite.
Can Eastern Rainbowfish be kept with other fish?
Yes, they are peaceful and do well with other non-aggressive fish species.

