Red Boesemani Rainbow
Red Boesemani Rainbow (Melanotaenia boesemani) is a selectively developed color form of the standard Boesemani Rainbow in which the orange rear-body coloration has been intensified through line-breeding to a deep, saturated red-orange to crimson. The blue-grey front half is retained, creating an even more dramatic contrast than the standard form.
Feeding & Care Tip: Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes and Hikari Micro Pellets make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms to maintain and enhance the deep red-orange coloration. Crush flakes for juveniles; soak pellets to prevent bloating.
Care requirements are identical to the standard Boesemani Rainbow. Slightly hard, alkaline water reflecting the limestone lake conditions of the Ajamaru Lakes. The intensified red coloration is most vivid in good lighting with stable, slightly alkaline water. Poor water quality or stress will cause the red to fade noticeably.
Keep in groups of at least six with mixed sexes. Male display behavior is identical to the standard form — spectacular fin-spreading and color intensification. The Red Boesemani is particularly striking when kept alongside the standard form — the contrast between the classic orange and the enhanced red creates a vivid mixed display.
A well-planted aquarium with open swimming space in the center replicates the rainbowfish's natural riverine habitat. These are active, fast-swimming fish that appreciate length more than height — a longer tank allows them to build up speed and display properly. Good filtration and regular partial water changes are important, as rainbowfish are sensitive to deteriorating water quality. Avoid very small or slow-moving tankmates that may be outcompeted at feeding time.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful — Community |
| Typical Adult Size | 4.5 inches (11 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 6 minimum — mixed sexes; stunning alongside standard Boesemani |
| Ideal Temp | 77–86°F (25–30°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.5–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 10–20 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 6–12 dKH |
| Staple Food | Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes; Hikari Micro Pellets |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms |
| Origin | Captive-bred color form from Ajamaru Lakes stock |
| Notes | Selectively bred for enhanced red-orange rear body. Care identical to standard Boesemani. Color most vivid in stable, slightly alkaline water. Keep with standard Boesemani for striking color contrast display. |
