The Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish was scientifically described by Weber & Beaufort in 1910. Its scientific name is Melanotaenia praecox.

Description
The Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish can reach a length of roughly 6 cm. The body is neon blue with contrasting red dorsal, anal and caudal fins.

Geographical distribution, habitat and conservation
The Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish inhabits streams in the Mamberamo region of West Papua (formerly known as Irian Jaya). It has been found in streams on the edge of the Mamberamo Plains. The typical Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish habitat has clear and swift flowing water with a temperature of roughly 28 degrees C (82 degrees F) and a pH-value of 6.5. The Mamberamo region has not been extensively surveyed and more investigation is necessary if we want to know the exact geographical range of this species.

The Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish is listed as “Data deficient” in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Keeping Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish in aquariums

Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish Copyright fishaliciousfish.blogspot.com Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish Copyright fishaliciousfish.blogspot.com

The Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish is of a peaceful disposition and can be kept with other non-aggressive species in the community aquarium or with its own kind only in a species aquarium. Always keep at least five Dwarf Neon Rainbowfishes together, ideally more.  Ideally combine fishes of roughly the same size. The aquarium should contain a lot of aquatic plants and good hiding spots. Keep the water temperature in the 24-28 degrees C (75-82 degrees F) range. Unlike many other rainbowfishes, the Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish prefers acidic water. The recommended pH-range is 6.5-6.9.

Breeding Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish
If you want to your Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish to spawn, you need to provide them with suitable spawning media in the aquarium. You can for instance use spawning mops or densely grown java moss. Well-fed adult fish will normally leave eggs and fry alone in the well planted aquarium. If you keep the water temperature in the upper part of the recommended range you can expect the eggs to hatch within 10 days. You can feed the fry infusoria and finely ground flakes until they are big enough to eat newly hatched brine shrimp and gnaw on whole flakes.

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Bulolo Rainbowfish
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Angfa Rainbowfish
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