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Parva Rainbowfish
$45.00
Available in-store only
Free in-store pickup
Ready to collect at our Melbourne store
Quarantined & health-checked
Every fish passes through our dedicated quarantine system and strict biosecurity monitoring before sale - so it arrives healthy, settled and ready to thrive. How we quarantine →
- Arrive Alive guarantee
- Hand-selected in Melbourne
- Secure checkout
- Expert local advice
Description
About the Parva Rainbowfish
The Parva Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia parva), also known as the Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish, is a vibrant freshwater species prized for its brilliant orange-red body and shimmering blue highlights. Endemic to Lake Kurumoi in West Papua, Indonesia, this rare rainbowfish is highly sought after by aquarists looking to add colour, movement and personality to a peaceful community aquarium.
Parva Rainbowfish are active schooling fish that display their best colours when kept in groups of six or more. Males become especially vibrant during displays and breeding, creating an eye-catching spectacle in well-planted aquariums. Their peaceful temperament makes them ideal companions for other non-aggressive species such as tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, dwarf gouramis and other small rainbowfish.
A densely planted aquarium with open swimming space, good filtration and regular water changes will keep this species thriving. They readily accept quality flakes, micro pellets, frozen foods and live foods, with a varied diet helping to maximise their colouration.
Hardy, colourful and full of energy, the Parva Rainbowfish is an excellent choice for aquarists wanting a unique schooling fish that stands out in planted and community aquariums.
Quick Care Guide
Scientific Name
Melanotaenia parva
Common Name
Parva Rainbowfish
Origin
Lake Kurumoi, West Papua, Indonesia
Adult Size
6–8 cm
Temperament
Peaceful
Diet
Omnivore
Minimum Tank Size
90 Litres
Temperature
24–28°C
pH
6.5–8.0
Water Hardness
5–20 dGH
Difficulty
Easy
Lifespan
5–8 Years
Suitable For
Planted aquariums, peaceful community aquariums and species aquariums
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Parva Rainbowfish suitable for beginners?
Yes. They are hardy, adaptable and relatively easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for beginner and experienced aquarists alike.
How many Parva Rainbowfish should be kept together?
They should be kept in schools of at least six individuals. Larger groups encourage natural behaviour, reduce stress and result in more vibrant colour displays.
What do Parva Rainbowfish eat?
They are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet of quality flakes, micro pellets, frozen foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms, along with occasional live foods.
Can Parva Rainbowfish live in a community aquarium?
Absolutely. Their peaceful nature makes them excellent companions for tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, peaceful gouramis and other similarly sized community fish.
Are Parva Rainbowfish suitable for planted aquariums?
Yes. They thrive in planted aquariums that provide open swimming areas alongside dense vegetation, which enhances their colouration and provides security.
Do Parva Rainbowfish breed easily?
Yes. In a mature aquarium with excellent water quality, they readily scatter adhesive eggs among fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. The adults should be separated from the eggs to prevent predation.
Common Mistakes
Keeping Them in Small Groups
Parva Rainbowfish are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six. Small groups can lead to stress and subdued colours.
Overcrowding the Aquarium
Although active swimmers, they require open swimming space. Avoid overcrowding the aquarium with too many fish or decorations.
Feeding Only Dry Food
A varied diet including frozen and live foods helps maintain vibrant colours, strong health and breeding condition.
Poor Water Maintenance
Regular water changes and stable water parameters are essential to keep these active fish healthy and displaying their best colours.
Keeping With Aggressive Fish
Avoid housing them with aggressive or fin-nipping species, as this can cause stress and prevent natural schooling behaviour.
Not Providing Plants
While they appreciate open swimming space, live plants help replicate their natural habitat and provide areas for spawning and shelter.
Shipping & delivery
This product is for in-store purchase only. Available for in-store pickup.
Returns
We stand behind everything we sell. If something is not right, get in touch and we will make it right. See our returns policy for the details.
Care & quarantine
This fish has been through our dedicated quarantine system and is feeding, settled and health-checked before sale. We still recommend acclimating slowly and quarantining new additions at home. Our team is happy to talk you through the right setup - just ask.
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