(C2) Red Rainbowfish (Glossolepis incisus)

Description

Red Rainbowfish (Glossolepis incisus)

📌 Basic Info

Scientific Name: Glossolepis incisus
Common Names: Red Rainbowfish, Salmon Red Rainbow, Lake Sentani Rainbowfish
Family: Melanotaeniidae (Rainbowfishes)
Order: Atheriniformes
Origin: Lake Sentani and nearby tributaries, Papua (Indonesia)
Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)
Lifespan: 5 – 8 years
Tank Zone: Middle and upper water levels

🌊 Water Parameters

TDS: 150 – 300 ppm
pH: 6.5 – 7.8
Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)
Hardness: 8 – 15 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

Body: Deep-bodied, laterally compressed with large scales that shimmer in natural light.
Coloration: Males develop brilliant red or orange-red coloration with maturity, while females remain silver to pale yellow.
Behavior: Active, schooling, and peaceful species; prefers open swimming space.
Display: Males show intense red hues and erect fins when courting or competing.
Unique Feature: One of the most vibrant large Rainbowfish species — coloration deepens with good diet and age.

🍽️ Food

Type: Omnivorous
Diet: High-quality flakes, pellets, live and frozen foods like bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp, and mysis shrimp.
Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times daily in small portions.
Tip: Enhance red coloration by including carotenoid-rich foods such as krill and spirulina.

🛠️ Maintenance

Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons (200 L) for a small group.
Filtration: Strong and efficient filtration with good water movement and oxygenation.
Decor: Open swimming area with dense plants at the sides and back; floating plants provide comfort.
Lighting: Moderate to bright lighting enhances their color display.
Water Change: 25–30% weekly for optimal health and color.

👥 Social Behavior

Group Size: Keep at least 6 or more; males display better colors in groups.
Tank Mates: Peaceful community fish — other Rainbowfish, Gouramis, larger Tetras, Corydoras, Loaches.
Avoid: Fin-nipping or overly aggressive fish.

✅ Do’s

• Keep in groups for best color and natural schooling behavior.
• Provide open swimming space with dense plant borders.
• Feed a balanced, protein-rich diet with natural color enhancers.
• Maintain high water quality and stable parameters.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t overcrowd — they need ample space.
• Don’t mix with small or timid fish.
• Don’t let water quality deteriorate; sensitive to poor oxygenation.

⭐ Quick Tips

The Red Rainbowfish (Glossolepis incisus) is a large, stunning, and peaceful schooling fish prized for its intense red coloration and graceful movement. Best suited for large planted aquariums, it’s ideal for aquarists who love active, colorful communities. Males grow redder with age — a true centerpiece for any freshwater tank.