Bleher's Rainbowfish

About

Bleher's rainbowfish (Chilatherina bleheri) comes from one of the more remarkable addresses in the hobby. A single lake in the Mamberamo River drainage of Irian Jaya, Indonesia. Lake Holmes, known locally as Danau Bira, is the only place on earth where this species exists in the wild, which makes it both a conservation talking point and a fish that dedicated hobbyists work hard to keep in circulation through captive breeding. Like most rainbowfishes, males develop vivid, iridescent coloration that intensifies during spawning displays and when the fish are in good condition, while females tend to be more subdued. Adults reach a decent size for a rainbowfish, and they need room to move. A roomy, well-planted tank suits them well, with open water in the center for swimming. They occupy the mid to upper levels and are completely peaceful, making them good candidates for a community of similarly sized, non-aggressive tankmates. Keep them in a proper school of at least six or more to see their best behavior and coloration. Care is manageable for someone with a bit of rainbowfish experience, and with good husbandry they can live a surprisingly long time.