Emerald Rainbowfish (Glossolepis wanamensis) are found in Lake Wanam, Papua New Guinea. Males are emerald-green in color, with yellow-orange lines along the abdomen and dark green unpaired fins. During courtship, a bright yellow stripe may appear from the nose to the first dorsal fin.
Emerald Rainbowfish are omnivorous and should be fed quality flake food with supplemental proteins such as baby brine shrimp. They require clean water but tolerate a wide variety of water parameters. By providing frequent water changes, you will be rewarded with nearly continuous spawning attempts. Glossolepis species deposit eggs in weedy areas (often mimicked by a yarn mop) and the eggs hatch 7-10 days later. Eggs can be harvested for hatching in separate tanks to avoid predation. Most Rainbows show their best colors at sunrise, when the males display their bright fins for potential mates. Having more females than males will allow for proper color displays and avoid any unwanted aggression toward lone females. Glossolepis anamnesis males often have fin ray extensions in the anal fin, giving them the appearance of frayed fins.
Scientific Name: Glossolepis wanamensis
Common Name: Emerald Rainbowfish
Max Size: 4.5″
pH: 7.0-7.8
Hardness: Moderate
Temperature: 75-82°
Aggressiveness: Peaceful
Region of Origin: Oceania
Captive Bred or Wild: Captive Bred