Irian Jaya Rainbow | Glossolepis incisus




Rainbowfish / Melanotaeniinae / Irian Jaya Rainbow

Profile: Salmon-red Rainbowfish, New Guinea Red Rainbowfish, Irian Jaya Rainbow
Glossolepis incisus Synonyms: None
Physical description: An elongated, laterally compressed fish that develops an arched back with age.   There are two dorsal fins, the second is longer than the first.   The anal fin runs from the mid-belly to the caudal peduncle.  The caudal fin is forked.  The head is small as is the mouth.   Males are bright red to copper in color, occasionally have silver upperparts.  The fins are also red.   Females are silver to yellow-brown in color. 
Size/Length: To 6" (15 cm)
Similar species: None
Habitat: Inhabits areas of dense vegetation near Lake Sentani, Irian Jaya (Indonesia).
S: middle, top
Aquarium: A tank measuring 36" (91 cm) with a volume from 35-45 gallons (132-170 L) is sufficient for smaller fish.  Full grown fish require a tank measuring at least 40" (101 cm).   The tank should be well-planted with open swimming areas.   
Water chemistry: 6.8-8 (7.2), 12-25 dH (16), 72-77°F (22-25°C)
Social behavior: An active, schooling fish suggested for a community tank.   Keep in groups of at least five fish, single fish do poorly.  Combine with peaceful, small to large companions.    
Suggested companions: Other rainbowfish, Corydoras, Danios, Barbs, Loricarids.
FOOD: Live; insect larvae, crustaceans, worms, insects; flakes
SEX: Males are high-backed with age and red in color.
Breeding techniques: Furnish the tank with Java Moss and fine-leaved plants.   Place only the pair in the tank and raise the temperature to 75-81°F (24-27°C).  A small number of eggs is laid daily for several months.   The clear eggs adhere to plants with thin threads.  These hatch after seven to eight days and are ignored by the parents.   The young first feed on roftiers, but later can be given egg yolk and Artemia nauplii.   The young require small, frequent water changes.
Breeding potential: 6.  Breeding is not especially difficult, although the young may be troublesome to rear.
Remarks: Only the dominant male in a tank will develop the characteristic bright red coloration.   Frequent partial water changes will intensify colors.
Difficulty of care: 5.  A somewhat sensitive species that can develop beautiful colors under favorable conditions.