Neon Dwarf Rainbowfish
Pickup available at Napier
Usually ready in 4 hours
Shipping & Returns
All live fish are shipped using NZPost overnight services with authority to leave (no signature).
We cannot guarantee the overnight services, this is a service that we/you pay for; but is not guaranteed.
We DO NOT offer returns on any alive animal.
Above are key points of our policy, Click Here to read our full shipping policy.
Dead On Arrival (DOA) Cover*
- DOA must be reported within 2 hours of delivery.
- Bags must remain sealed (do not remove rubber band or tape)
- Photos & Videos must be supplied this can be emailed or sent through live chat; including your order No. (minimum 3 clear images, showing dead fish & sealed bag)
- DOA does not apply once the bags are opened & fish have been released.
- DOA does not apply to any Rural (RD) address.
Introducing New Fish
Follow these steps to minimize stress and ensure a smooth transition for your new fish!
-
Float the Bag: Place the sealed bag containing the new fish in the tank. This equalizes the temperature between bag and tank water.
-
Open and Add Tank Water Gradually: After about 5 minutes, open the bag and add a small amount of aquarium water into it every 5 minutes for 15–30 minutes. This helps the fish acclimate to the tank’s water chemistry.
-
Wait 15–30 Minutes: Let the fish adjust to the water temperature and chemistry gradually in the bag.
-
Release Fish: Gently release the fish into the tank without pouring the original bag water in.
Explore related options
You may also like fish food , aquatic plants .
The Neon Dwarf Rainbowfish is a brilliantly coloured freshwater species admired for its shimmering electric blue body and vibrant red fins. Native to Papua New Guinea, these active and peaceful fish bring constant movement and colour to planted community aquariums. Their metallic iridescence becomes even more impressive under proper lighting, especially when kept in groups.
Despite their dazzling appearance, Neon Dwarf Rainbowfish are relatively hardy and easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. They thrive in well-maintained aquariums with open swimming space, live plants, and good water quality.
Physical Characteristics:
-
Adult Size:
Approximately 5–6cm -
Body Shape:
Slim, laterally compressed rainbowfish body shape -
Colouration:
Iridescent neon blue body with bright red or orange fins -
Sexual Dimorphism:
Males are generally more colourful with deeper bodies and extended finnage, while females are slightly smaller and less vibrant -
Lifespan:
Approximately 4–6 years
Behaviour & Temperament:
-
Temperament:
Peaceful and active -
Swimming Level:
Middle to upper levels -
Social Behaviour:
Schooling species that displays best colour and confidence in groups -
Recommended Group Size:
Minimum of 6 or more individuals recommended - Aquarium Requirements:
-
Minimum Tank Size:
75 litres recommended -
Water Temperature:
24–28°C -
pH Range:
6.5–7.8 -
Water Hardness:
Soft to moderately hard water -
Water Flow:
Moderate water movement preferred -
Substrate:
Dark gravel or sand helps enhance colouration -
Aquascape:
Planted aquarium with open swimming areas and driftwood -
Lighting:
Moderate to bright lighting
Neon Dwarf Rainbowfish are omnivorous and readily accept a variety of aquarium foods.
Suitable Foods
- Quality micro pellets
- Tropical flakes
- Frozen brine shrimp
- Daphnia
- Bloodworms
- Live foods for colour enhancement
Frequency
Feed 1–2 times daily in small portions.
Compatibility:
Suitable Tank Mates
- Peaceful tetras
- Rasboras
- Corydoras catfish
- Dwarf gouramis
- Peaceful livebearers
- Other peaceful rainbowfish species
Avoid Housing With
- Aggressive fish
- Large predatory species
-
Fin nippers
Breeding:
Spawning Type:
Egg scatterer
Difficulty:
Moderate
Notes:
Eggs are usually deposited among fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. Adults do not provide parental care and may consume eggs or fry if left together.
Special Considerations:
- Best colouration develops in well-maintained aquariums and larger schools
- Males display impressive colours during courtship
- Requires good water quality and stable conditions
- Excellent choice for peaceful planted aquariums
- Tight-fitting lids recommended as rainbowfish can jump
