Susi Creek Rainbow
Susi Creek Rainbow (Melanotaenia boesemani ‘Susi Creek’) is a locality form of the Boesemani Rainbow collected from Susi Creek in West Papua. This population shows its own subtle variation in the blue-orange coloration and body proportions compared to the standard Ajamaru Lakes form — the orange may be slightly deeper or the blue more intensely saturated depending on individual specimens. Locality designations are important for maintaining genetic diversity in captive populations.
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. Crush flakes for juveniles; soak pellets. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.
Native to Susi Creek, a tributary within the broader West Papua drainage system where Boesemani Rainbows are found. Care requirements are identical to the standard Boesemani — slightly hard, alkaline water with good filtration and regular water changes.
Keep in groups of at least six with mixed sexes. The locality designation 'Susi Creek' is meaningful to collectors who track the geographic lineage of their fish — different populations can show subtle but genuine color and morphological differences. Completely peaceful with other medium to large community fish.
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 for best display |
| 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 | Susi Creek locality, West Papua, Indonesia |
| Notes | Locality form of Melanotaenia boesemani from Susi Creek. Care identical to standard Boesemani. Locality designation important for genetic diversity in captive breeding. Subtle color variation from standard Ajamaru Lakes population. |
