Red Irian

1. Physical Characteristics

• Coloration: The Red Irian Rainbowfish exhibits stunning coloration, with males displaying a vibrant red-orange body with blue and green iridescent highlights, especially on their fins. Females are generally more subdued in color, featuring a lighter body with some iridescent sheen.
• Size: Males typically grow to about 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm), while females are slightly smaller, reaching up to 3 inches (7.5 cm).
• Lifespan: With proper care, Red Irian Rainbowfish can live for 5-8 years in captivity.

2. Natural Habitat and Distribution

• Origin: This species is native to the Irian Jaya region (West Papua) of Indonesia, typically found in clear, slow-moving rivers and streams surrounded by lush vegetation.
• Tank Environment: In captivity, they thrive in spacious, well-filtered aquariums with ample open swimming space and planted areas, mimicking their natural habitat.

3. Behavior and Temperament

• Peaceful Schooling Fish: Red Irian Rainbowfish are peaceful and do best when kept in groups of at least 6 or more. They are active swimmers and occupy the mid-to-upper levels of the tank.
• Social Behavior: These fish are social and exhibit more vibrant colors when kept in groups. Males may display brighter colors during breeding or in displays of dominance but are generally non-aggressive.

4. Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 30-40 gallons is recommended for a small group. Larger tanks (50+ gallons) are ideal for accommodating their active nature.

  Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C).

  • pH: 6.5-7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic water).

  • Water Hardness: 5-12 dGH (soft to moderately hard water).

  • Filtration and Aeration: They prefer well-oxygenated water, so a good filtration system is essential. Gentle water movement is recommended to mimic their natural habitat.

• Aquascaping: Provide open swimming areas along with densely planted regions using hardy plants like Java fern, Vallisneria, and Anubias. Adding driftwood and rocks can enhance the natural environment.

5. Diet

• Omnivorous: Red Irian Rainbowfish are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet.

  Diet Options:

  • High-quality flake or pellet food designed for tropical fish.
  • Live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.
  • Vegetable matter, including spirulina and algae wafers, to support their health and coloration.

  Diet Variation: A balanced diet with a mix of protein and plant-based foods is essential for maintaining their vibrant colors and overall health.

6. Breeding

• Egg-Laying Species: Breeding Red Irian Rainbowfish is relatively straightforward. They are egg scatterers, meaning females will lay eggs on fine-leaved plants or spawning mops.
• Mating Behavior: Males become more colorful during breeding and engage in courtship displays, which may involve chasing and fin-flaring.
• Hatching: Eggs typically hatch within 7-12 days, depending on water conditions. Once the fry are free-swimming, they need to be fed infusoria or specialized fry foods until they are large enough for baby brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes.

7. Tank Mates

• Compatible Tank Mates: Red Irian Rainbowfish are peaceful and can be housed with other similarly sized, non-aggressive species.

  Good tank mates include:

  • Other species of rainbowfish.
  • Small, peaceful tetras and rasboras.
  • Corydoras catfish.
  • Peaceful dwarf cichlids.

  Avoid Aggressive Fish: Avoid larger or aggressive species that may stress the Red Irian Rainbowfish or compete for resources.

8. Fun Facts

• Color Intensity: The coloration of Red Irian Rainbowfish can intensify based on their mood and environmental conditions, particularly during breeding.
• Unique Patterns: Each individual may display unique patterns and color variations, making them visually captivating.
• Energetic Behavior: Their active swimming behavior and schooling nature make them fun to observe in a community tank.

9. Importance in Aquariums

• Visual Appeal: Their vibrant coloration and lively behavior make them a popular choice for community aquariums.

• Beginner-Friendly: Red Irian Rainbowfish are relatively hardy and adaptable, suitable for beginners as long as water quality is maintained.

  Key Care Tips:

  • Stable Water Conditions: Regular water changes and good filtration are crucial for their health and coloration.
  • Group Size: Keep them in schools of 6 or more to promote natural behaviors and color displays.
  • Balanced Diet: A varied diet with both plant and protein-based foods will help them maintain their vibrant colors and overall health.