Goliad Farms, LP - Rainbowfish - Glossolepis wanamensis

Glossolepis wanamensis, the Emerald Rainbow, is a lake dwelling rainbowfish from eastern New Guinea (click here for a general discussion of rainbowfish). Dr. Gerald R. Allen states that this species is confined to Lake Wanam, hence its scientific name. The photo is of a mature male.

Size: Males and females reach 15cm (6 in.).

Description: Males are dark green with a very large, distinguishing anal fin. Females are a pleasing light blue to green color and remain slimmer than the males. Like other rainbows, this species is long-lived (5+ years).

Environment: This species tolerates pHs from 6.5 to 8.0 while preferring the higher end (basic) of this range. Water hardness is not critical. Optimum temperature ranges from 20-30°C (68-85°F).

Geographic Range: A limited area of northern New Guinea. According to Dr. Gerald R. Allen this fish is found only in Lake Wanam.

Temperament: This species is not aggressive (except that adult males can be aggressive toward each other) and is an active swimmer. It can be kept either in a large single species aquarium or in active community aquaria with other rainbowfish or other fish with similar behavior.

Feeding: Feeding is simple with the fish taking prepared foods as well as live and frozen foods. Periodic feedings of Daphnia or other live foods are helpful in color maintenance, general health and breeding.

Spawning: This rainbowfish spawns like other rainbowfish, laying eggs daily in fine leaved plants or plant roots (click here for a general discussion of rainbowfish breeding). Males are very hard drivers, often courting the females so persistently as to damage the females. Therefore, the author recommends a minimum of 3 females per male. The eggs hatch in about 12 days and the fry can take microworms, vinegar eels or infusoria immediately. Growth is rapid but slower than that of other rainbowfish. Sexual maturity is reached in about 6 months.

Additional Information and Photos: For more information about and additional photos of this species, click on one of the following links:
http://members.optushome.com.au/chelmon/Glossolepis.htm

Page last modified February 5, 2005