Keeping Boeseman's Rainbowfish: A Two-Tone Active Centerpiece

Boeseman's rainbowfish are living gradients - their bodies shading from deep blue-purple at the head to fiery orange at the tail, a color scheme unlike anything else in the hobby. Active, hardy schoolers, they make a spectacular centerpiece in a roomy, brightly lit planted tank, though they take time to mature into their full color, rewarding the patient keeper.

Is it right for you?

Boeseman's rainbowfish suit a keeper with a roomy tank who wants an active, spectacular schooler and is patient enough to let them color up with age. They are hardy but need space and a group.

System & Space

A larger, open, well-lit planted tank suits their active schooling; they are strong swimmers that need swimming room, and a group shows them at their best.

Water & Temperature

They like warm, hard, slightly alkaline water and bright light, which brings out their color. Stable, clean water keeps them healthy and vivid.

Stocking & Feeding

Keep a school of six or more and feed varied flakes, pellets and frozen or live foods; good feeding and maturity deepen their two-tone color. A larger group displays best.

Health & Care

Hardy and disease-resistant in clean, stable water; the main needs are space, a proper school and good light. Give them time to mature for full color.

Harvest & Enjoying Them

Ornamental - the reward is an active, dazzling two-tone school that anchors a bright planted aquascape.

Getting Started

Add a school of six or more (young, drab fish are normal) to a cycled, roomy, well-lit, warm hard-water tank, and let them grow into their color.

Common Mistakes

Judging young drab fish (they color with age), too small a tank or school, and dim lighting are the usual mistakes.

FAQ

Why do mine look dull? Young rainbowfish are drab - they develop their two-tone color as they mature.

Tank size? They need room - a roomy tank for an active school.