Red Laser Rainbow
Red Laser Rainbow (Melanotaenia rubrivittata) is a beautiful species from West Papua with a vivid red-orange horizontal stripe running the length of the body — the 'laser' stripe that gives this fish its evocative common name. Against a silvery to pale gold body, the intense red stripe appears almost neon in good lighting.
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 enhance the vivid red stripe coloration. Crush flakes for juveniles; soak pellets.
Native to river drainages in West Papua, Indonesia. This species inhabits clear, moderately flowing waters. The vivid red lateral stripe is most intense in good water quality with stable conditions.
Keep in groups of at least six with mixed sexes. Males display actively with color intensification. Completely peaceful with other medium to large community fish. The red stripe is particularly striking in a planted aquarium.
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 | 4.0 inches (10 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 6 minimum — mixed sexes for best display |
| Ideal Temp | 72–82°F (22–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 7.0–8.0 |
| Ideal GH | 8–18 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 4–10 dKH |
| Staple Food | Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes; Hikari Micro Pellets |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms |
| Origin | West Papua, Indonesia |
| Notes | Vivid red-orange lateral stripe — the 'laser' marking that gives this fish its name. Stripe most intense in good water quality. Uncommonly available. |
