Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Peaceful

Live Plant Safe: Yes

General Description: The Red Neon Blue Eye Dwarf Rainbow, called Red Neon for short, are endemic to submerged freshwater riparian habitats of Papua New Guinea. The majority of specimens available within the aquarium trade are commercially produced through aquaculture however, because wild populations are threatened due to habitat destruction. Both male and female Red neon rainbows have a yellowish body and a blue highlight above the eye, but males will become more intensely colored and develop fancier 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 Red neon rainbow can reach a size of approximately 1-1/2″ to 2″.

Diet Requirements: Red neon 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 30 gallon aquarium is ideal for a group of Red neon rainbows. While these fish are small, this size aquarium better provides a stable environment and space needed to accomodate their energetic behavior. This species should not be introduced into a biologically immature aquarium. Red neon 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). Red neon 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). Red neon rainbows would also benefit from some floating plants, as this better mimics their natural environment. Red neon 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 Red neon rainbows with other peaceful nano fishes to provide them with security. This species is great with Neocaridina shrimps. Extra care should be taken acclimating Red neon rainbows. Recommended water conditions, 72-76° F, KH 10-25, pH 6.5-7.5.

Purchase Size: Medium: 1”

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