Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Peaceful

Live Plant Safe: Yes

General Description: The Furcata Rainbow, also known as the Forktail Rainbow, is found in eastern Papua New Guinea, however all specimens available within the aquarium trade are commercially produced through aquaculture. Both male and female Furcata rainbows have a silver body with a blue sheen, but males will become slightly more colorful [yellow] and develop extensions on their fins. These fins are used in both sparing behavior between males and to gain the attention of females during spawning. In most cases, juvenile specimens are typically offered and have yet to reach their impressive potential; these specimens can also be more difficult to sex. If possible, acquiring a mixed sex group of 8 or more individuals is recommended for their social behavior, as males will display their best in the presence of females and other conspecific males. An adult Furcata rainbow can reach a size of approximately 2-1/4″.

Diet Requirements: Furcata rainbows are omnivores. Consideration needs to be taken when selecting food sources given their very small mouths. A diet made up of various high quality vegetable based and protein based flake foods, floating micro pellet foods and bug bites are ideal, in addition to offering frozen foods such as bloodworms, micro worms, brine shrimp and daphnia. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish.

Care Requirements: A minimum 15 to 20 gallon aquarium is ideal for a group of Furcata rainbows. While these fish are small, this size aquarium better provides a stable environment. This species should not be introduced into a biologically immature aquarium. Furcata rainbows are intolerable of nitrite or ammonia spikes, and will not endure deteriorating water parameters. Weekly water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters pristine (Nitrates < 15 ppm). Furcata rainbows like gentle water flow and generous oxygen that may be best achieved by a sponge filter. The aquarium should be aquascaped with a darker substrate and dense vegetation (live plants are preferred). Furcata rainbows would also benefit from some floating plants, as this better mimics their natural environment. Furcata rainbows are extremely peaceful and rarely conflict with tank mates. Their timid nature, however, may make them not suitable for traditional community aquariums that have overly rambunctious or competitive species. Mix Furcata rainbows with other peaceful nano fishes to provide them with security. This species are great with Neocaridina shrimps. Extra care should be taken acclimating Furcata rainbows. Recommended water conditions, 72-76° F, KH 5-12, pH 7.0-8.0.

Purchase Size: Medium: 1/2” to 3/4”

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.