Checkered Rainbowfish

Biosecurity Shipping Limitations apply

Shipping Allowed?

About Checkered Rainbowfish

The Checkered Rainbowfish is an attractive Australian native known for its shimmering blue-green body, reddish markings and distinctive checkered patterning, particularly in mature males.

They are active, peaceful schooling fish that look best when kept in a group of at least 6, allowing males to display their colours and natural courtship behaviour. They are excellent community fish and work particularly well in planted aquariums with plenty of open swimming space.

Checkered Rainbowfish are generally hardy once established and readily accept a varied diet. Regular feeding of quality flakes and pellets supplemented with frozen or live foods can help bring out their best colouration.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name: Melanotaenia splendida inornata
Common Name: Checkered Rainbowfish
Family: Melanotaeniidae
Type: Freshwater Fish / Australian Rainbowfish
Adult Size: Approximately 10–12 cm
Temperament: Peaceful
Care Level: Easy to Intermediate
Minimum Aquarium: 150 L+
Temperature: Approximately 22–28°C
pH: Approximately 6.5–8.0
Diet: Omnivore
Tank Level: Midwater
Group Size: 6+ Recommended
Suitable For: Community and planted aquariums

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Checkered Rainbowfish peaceful?

Yes. They are peaceful community fish and generally mix well with other similarly sized, peaceful species.

How many Checkered Rainbowfish should I keep?

They are schooling fish and should ideally be kept in a group of 6 or more. A larger group will usually display more natural behaviour and stronger colouration.

How big do Checkered Rainbowfish get?

Adults can reach approximately 10–12 cm, with males typically being larger and more colourful.

What do Checkered Rainbowfish eat?

They are omnivores and readily accept quality flakes, pellets, frozen foods and live foods. A varied diet helps maintain colour and condition.

Are Checkered Rainbowfish suitable for planted aquariums?

Yes. They work particularly well in planted aquariums, provided there is enough open swimming space.

Common Mistakes

Keeping only one or two fish
Rainbowfish are schooling fish and thrive when kept in a proper group.

Using an undersized aquarium
They are active swimmers and need plenty of horizontal swimming space.

Keeping them with aggressive tank mates
Aggressive fish can stress rainbowfish and prevent them from displaying naturally.

Providing too little swimming space
Dense planting is beneficial, but leave an open area for the school to swim.

Feeding only one type of food
A varied diet helps maintain strong colouration, growth and overall condition.