Harlequin Rainbowfish Orange – Melanotaenia boesemani | Juveniles with vibrant orange shimmer & active swimming behavior

The Orange Harlequin Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia boesemani) is a beautiful color variant of the popular rainbowfish from West Papua, which impresses even at a young age with its vibrant orange shimmer. As it matures, the coloration intensifies until males display a brilliant orange-blue play of colors.

This species is peaceful, lively, and enjoys swimming, perfectly suited for planted community aquariums with open swimming space. Kept in groups, the fish develop their full social behavior and display harmonious interaction.

🌿 Characteristics & Care:
🐠 Fish Size: S/M (3–4 cm)
🌎 Origin: West Papua (Ayamaru Lake)
🌡️ Temperature: 24–28 °C
💧 pH Value: 6.5–8.0
⚖️ Total Hardness: up to 18 °dGH
🐟 Social Behavior: Peaceful, schooling fish (from 6 individuals)
🌾 Aquarium: From 200 l, with plants, current & open swimming space

🍽️ Feeding:
Eats live, frozen, and dry food. Color-enhancing food with spirulina, krill, or paprika extract supports intense coloration.

💡 Tip:
A brightly lit aquarium with dark substrate makes the orange glow particularly radiant – ideal for a color-intensive presentation.

👉 Conclusion:
The Orange Harlequin Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia boesemani) is a colorful, peaceful schooling fish – perfect for lively, planted aquariums.