Catalog / fish / Threadfin rainbowfish
fish · Melanotaeniidae
Threadfin rainbowfish
Iriatherina werneri
Wild range: Northern Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea (Australia)

At a glance: Threadfin rainbowfish care
Compiled reference information. Review the care notes and original sources below.
What temperature is listed for Threadfin rainbowfish?
The compiled profile lists 18.0–32.0 °C for Threadfin rainbowfish (Iriatherina werneri). Check the original sources below for context and differing recommendations.
What tank size is listed for Threadfin rainbowfish?
The profile lists a minimum tank volume of 15.0 US gallons (56.8 liters). Volume alone does not establish suitability; consider dimensions, group size and other inhabitants alongside the full care notes.
What pH is listed for Threadfin rainbowfish?
The compiled profile lists a pH of 6.0–7.5. Review the cited care sources alongside the other water parameters in this profile.
Natural habitat
The Threadfin Rainbowfish is native to the densely vegetated waters of Oceania, specifically found in slow-moving freshwater swamps and lagoons. This environment is characterized by rich plant life and shaded areas, making it essential to replicate these conditions in captivity for optimal well-being.
Where they are found
Found in New Guinea between the Merauke and Fly Rivers and in Australia particularly in the Jardine River swamps.
Aquarium care
To care for the Threadfin Rainbowfish, it is ideal to maintain a spacious aquarium with dense plant growth and shaded areas. This enhances their natural habitat and encourages their peaceful demeanor. Also, ensure good water quality with stable parameters suitable for this species.
Feeding
Feed a varied diet including small live foods like brine shrimp, fruit flies, and small commercial flakes or pellets. Consider feeding at the surface where they prefer to feed.
Compatibility
Best kept with similarly sized fish and avoided combining with aggressive species. They can safely coexist with small peaceful species and shrimp but avoid larger tankmates.
Breeding
Breeding Threadfin Rainbowfish can be a rewarding challenge. In a properly conditioned breeding tank equipped with spawning mops or fine plants like Java Moss, males will display their vibrant colors and perform courtship displays to attract females. They are continuous spawners, laying eggs daily. Fry require very fine food like infusoria or liquid fry food in their early days.
Sources
Compiled from multiple independent care sheets — not copied from a single site.