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Red Rainbowfish
Red Rainbowfish
Origin
Indonesia
Habitat Size
50-150 Liters
Water Type
Fresh Water
Water Temperature
22º-28ºC
Cost in India
₹80 - ₹150
Size
2 - 6 inches (Small)
Diet
Omnivore



by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 2 Dec 2025
Introduction of the Red Rainbowfish
Red Rainbowfish, or Salmon Red Rainbowfish (Glossolepis incisus), are undoubtedly among the most dramatic of freshwater fishes. A brilliant red for males, with olive to silvery females offering pleasant contrast in a community aquarium, they are active and hardy fishes that flourish kept in small schools and thus are the choice of those aquarists who want energy and color in their aquarium.
Origin of Red Rainbowfish
Red Rainbowfish are native to Lake Sentani in Papua, Indonesia. Their natural habitats are transparent freshwater rivers and lakes. Red Rainbowfish do their best where they have aquarium plants surrounding them to graze on small insects and algae. Well-oxygenated water and cleanness describe their natural environment — something that must be replicated in home tanks if they are to live for the long term as healthy fish.
Temperament of the Red Rainbowfish
Red Rainbowfish are lively, but peaceful. They prefer to be in groups of six or larger and display the best of their colouring, coordinated swimming. Males will show the occasional mild chasing, particularly spawning time, but never harm tankmates.
Red Rainbowfish Compatibility with Other Fish
Red Rainbowfish make the perfect community fish and can be kept in company with:
- Tetras, danios, and rasboras
- Peaceful barbs
- Corydoras and other catfish
- Other rainbowfish species
Do not keep with:
- Aggressive cichlids
- Large predatory fish
- Fin-nipping species like tiger barbs
Price Range of the Red Rainbowfish
Red Rainbowfish are not too expensive and readily available. Prices are between ₹400–₹1,200 ($5–$15) per fish, based on sex, size, and color. Deep red color males are more expensive.
Characteristics
Temperament
Aggressive
Friendly
Compatibility with other fishes
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Habitat Size
Small
Large

Habitat Needs of the Red Rainbowfish
Initial Setup Cost
₹4,000 - ₹12,000
Water Temperature
22º -28ºC
Water Type
Fresh Water
PH Level
6.5 - 8
Tank Setup
- Minimum tank capacity: 40 gallons for a school
- Recommended: 55 gallons or bigger for a community tank
- Includes: open swimming space, plants, and cover
Water Conditions
- Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
- pH level: 7.0–8.0
- Water hardness: 8–15 dGH
Environmental Requirements
- Substrate: sand or fine gravel
- Plants: Java fern, Vallisneria, and Anubias for shelter
- Decorations: driftwood, caves, or smooth rocks
- Lighting: moderate to bring out red coloration
Essential Equipment
Aquarium tank
Water filter
Heater
Light
Substrate
Red Rainbowfish Nutrition Guide
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹80 - ₹ 150
Red Rainbowfish are omnivores and ought to be fed a balanced diet:
- Staple: high-quality flakes or pellets
- Protein: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia
- Veggies: Spirulina, zucchini, and blanched spinach
Red Rainbowfish Feeding Tips:
- Feed 2–3 small meals per day
- Variety diet for more vibrant coloration
- Cut excess food to prevent water pollution

Health & Care of the Red Rainbowfish
Common Health Issues
Fin rot
White spot / ick
Columnaris (cotton wool-like growth on the skin)
Swim bladder inflammation
Parasites
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
Swimming abnormally
Red Rainbowfish Common Diseases
Velvet Disease
Parasite infestation covering fish in gold or rust dust.
- Symptom: Sparkle in golden body, object scratching, drowsiness
- Treatment: Slightly raise water temperature and treat with copper medicine
Columnaris (Bacterial Disease)
Eponymous bacterial infection of gills, skin, and mouth.
- Symptom: White or gray patches on mouth or fins, labored breathing
- Treatment: Treat with antibacterial drug; give sparkling water
Gill Flukes
Tiny parasites that destroy gills and interfere with breathing.
- Symptom: Gills thrashing very fast at the surface, hitting things
- Cure: Treat with antiparasitic drug like praziquantel and give oxygen-rich water
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 are signs of illness in Red Rainbowfish?
Signs of illness include loss of appetite, lethargy, dull coloring, tattered fins, and abnormal swimming behavior.
What maintenance is required for a Red Rainbowfish tank?
Regular water changes, proper filtration, monitoring water parameters, and providing a balanced diet are essential for maintaining a healthy tank for Red Rainbowfish.
What type of diet do Red Rainbowfish require?
Red Rainbowfish are omnivorous and require a varied diet of high-quality flake or pellet food, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms, as well as vegetable matter like blanched spinach or zucchini.

