Boesemani rainbow fish

Description

Common name:
Boesemani Rainbowfish

Scientific name:
Melanotaenia boesemani

Chinese name:
波氏彩虹鱼

Japanese name:
ボーセマニーレインボーフィッシュ

Size:
8–10 cm

Lifespan:
5–8 years

Level:
Intermediate

Family:
Melanotaeniidae

pH:
6.5–7.8

Origin:
West Papua, Indonesia

Water hardness:
Hard (10–20 dGH)

Diet:
Omnivore (flakes, pellets, frozen and live food)

Ideal water Temperature:
24–28°C

Special care:
Prefers well-planted tanks with open swimming space; keep in groups of at least 6

Behavior:
Peaceful, active schooling fish

Pros and cons:
Pros: Bright coloration, peaceful, active display fish
Cons: Needs group, requires good water quality, may nip slow long-finned fish

Long description:
The Boesemani Rainbowfish is a striking freshwater species known for its half-blue, half-orange body coloration that intensifies in males. They are active mid-level swimmers that thrive in groups and add constant movement and color to community aquariums. Best kept in a spacious tank with plants along the sides and open swimming areas, they do well with other peaceful species of similar size. Stable water conditions and a varied diet help bring out their best coloration and health.

Photos are for illustration purposes only. Please refer to the stated dimensions for accurate sizing. We welcome you to visit our shop to personally select your fish.

Feel free to WhatsApp us with any questions, or drop by our shop for a consultation — we’re here to help you get everything right for your aquarium setup.

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Visit our shop near Outram park MRT 5 Everton park #01-34 080005

Keeping Boesemani Rainbowfish in Singapore

The Boesemani is one of our most rewarding mid-size community fish, the rear half glowing orange against a blue-purple front once the male settles and colours up. That colour only develops with maturity, good diet, and the company of its own kind, so we always send these out in groups of six or more. Singapore’s year-round warmth keeps them in their comfort band easily, and a wide tank with open swimming lanes lets the males display and chase without stress.

Acclimate slowly when you bring them home; rainbowfish dislike abrupt shifts in water more than most. Our local tap runs soft and slightly acidic, slightly below their ideal hardness, so we nudge GH up gently for the best colour and longevity. Feed a varied mix of quality flake, micro pellets and occasional frozen food, and expect lively, peaceful behaviour that suits a planted community tank well.

Browse the rest of our stock under fish and livestock. Before buying, read our Boesemani care guide and our rainbowfish tank mates guide to plan a compatible community.