The Crossing Rainbowfish is a man-made hybrid, thought to be a cross between Melanotaenia trifasciata and another Melanotaenia species. Although they may not be to the taste of purists, this is an attractive fish that has been bred in the Far East for some time and is usually readily available in the trade. It is a small-medium sized, peaceful rainbowfish that is ideally suited to planted community aquaria. The tank should be as spacious as possible, as these are fairly active fish, and they should be maintained in groups of 6 or more due to their shoaling nature. The juveniles of many rainbowfish can often look a little drab compared to the adults, and as such are sometimes overlooked in the shops. However, once settled into the security of the planted aquarium, these young specimens will begin to colour up, gradually revealing their stunning adult beauty. Crossing Rainbowfish will not bother smaller tankmates, as their mouth/throat is too narrow to be able to swallow them.
Feeding
Flake, green flake, micropellets, and small frozen foods such as mosquito larvae, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, and daphnia.
| Distribution | Man-made hybrid; not present in nature. |
| Sexual Dimorphism | In mature fish, the males are often more colourful, deeper-bodied, and develop longer dorsal and anal fins. |
| Maximum Size | 11cm (4.3") |
| Temperature | 22-28 deg C (72-82 deg F) |
| Water Parameters | pH: 7.0-8.0, dH: 10-20 degrees. |
| Compatibility | Community |
| Lighting | No special requirements |