The Spotted Blue-Eye Rainbowfish (Pseudomugil gertrudae) is a popular "nano" fish known for its striking blue irises and delicate, spotted fins. As adults, these fish are prized for their peaceful nature and active schooling behaviour in planted aquariums.
Adult Appearance & Size
Maximum Size: Adults typically reach 1.2 to 1.5 inches (3–4 cm).
Coloration: They feature a shimmering silver-blue to yellow body with distinctive dark spots on the fins and along their sides.
Sexual Dimorphism:
Males: More vibrant with larger, elaborate, fan-like fins (especially dorsal and anal fins) that they flare during courtship displays.
Females: Subdued coloration with shorter, simpler fins.
Care Requirements for Adults
Tank Setup: Minimum 10 gallons (40 litres). They thrive in heavily planted tanks with floating vegetation and gentle water flow.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 22°C – 28°C (72°F – 82°F).
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0 – 7.5).
Social Needs: They are a shoaling species and should be kept in groups of at least 6 to 10 individuals to reduce stress and encourage natural color displays.
Lifespan: Generally short-lived, typically reaching 1.5 to 3 years in an aquarium environment, though some sources suggest up to 5 years with optimal care.
Diet & Compatibility
Diet: Omnivorous micropredators. Adults accept high-quality flakes and micro pellets, but their coloration is best enhanced by live or frozen foods like baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and cyclops.
Tank Mates: Best kept with other small, peaceful species like neon tetras, rasboras, and dwarf shrimp. Avoid larger or aggressive fish that may outcompete them for food.
SKU: RBM
