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The Boesemani Rainbowfish Melanotaenia boesemani are found in Asia, more specifically in the Vogelkop Peninsula of Western New Guinea (formerly Irian Jaya). They are found only in the waters and tributaries of Lakes Ayamaru, Hain, and Aitinjo. They inhabit swampy shallow areas that are densely vegetated and feed on small crustaceans, insects, and some vegetation. Other common names they are known by include Bicolor Rainbow fish and Boeseman’s Rainbowfish.
The Boeseman’s Rainbowfish are omnivores and are opportunistic feeders in the wild, with a natural diet of small crustaceans, insects, and some vegetation. In captivity, they should be given a high quality diet to encourage good colouration. A mix of live and processed foods is necessary for optimal health.
Buy processed foods in small amounts and frequently, as the nutritional value of these products quickly deteriorates past usefulness. Boesemani Rainbows relish live food like bloodworms and brine shrimp and the like. If these are unavailable, frozen (defrosted) substitutes would be fine.
Rainbowfish are not exceptionally difficult to care for provided their water is kept clean. At least 25 – 50% of the tank water should be replaced weekly, especially if the tank is densely stocked. They are very active swimmers so a tank at least 80cm long is necessary. They are also jumpers so be sure the tank has a secure cover.
The Boesemani Rainbows do fine in a larger fish community aquarium of similarly sized fish, but do exceptionally well in a geographical tank stocked with other rainbows. Although generally non-aggressive, overly aggressive or very shy tank mates will make bullies out of them. Mix them with other playful but good natured fish for best results. You may notice some chasing between rainbows, but this is rarely a concern unless a fish is injured, has nowhere to hide, or is constantly harassed (usually a result of one of the first two).
Boesemani Rainbows are schooling fish and the ratio of males to females is very important to keep a reasonable peace among them. Although you can always keep single sex schools, you will see significantly better colouration if both genders are in the tank.
- Species – Melanotaenia boesemani
- Common Name – Boesemani Rainbow
- Origin – Vogelkop Peninsula of Western New Guinea
- Diet – Omnivorous
- PH Range – 6.5 – 8
- Temperature – Tropical and Coldwater 21°c – 26°c
- Breed Type – Egg Scatterer
- Current Size – approximately 5cm (Grows to approximately 11.5cm)
- Sex – Un-sexed
Q: How much is postage cost?
A: All dry goods are $8.95 flat shipping, $11.95 for Plants express postage and live stock are $20 express postage flat. Handling time applies.
Q: Where do we ship ?
A: We ship Australia wide but Live stock are not shipped to WA,NT & Tasmania because of the state law.
Q: Where do we ship from ?
A: We ship from Sydney,
Q: When do we ship ?
A: All dry goods are shipped Monday - Friday. Live Goods are shipped Mon - Wed depending where you are.
Q: Can I Pick Up ?
A: We are not offering any pickup at this stage
A: All dry stock can be returned back. Live goods are not refundable. Shipping cost will be deducted upon return of the item and also customer is responsible to send the item back.
We do ship dry goods.
Step 1: Prepare the necessary materials
Clean bucket or container large enough
Airline tubing
Air pump (optional but recommended)
Adjustable valve or knot (to regulate the flow of water) or get a abquatics drip kit
Clean, dechlorinated water (ideally matching the temperature and pH of your tank)
Step 2: Set up the drip acclimation system
Fill a clean bucket or container with the clean, dechlorinated water.
Attach one end of the airline tubing to an air pump (if using) and place the other end inside the bucket. Make sure it reaches the bottom of the container.
Step 3: Start the drip
Open the bag containing the aquatic animals and carefully pour the entire contents into the bucket, including the water from the transport bag.
Start a siphon by sucking on the free end of the airline tubing or use a siphon starter. This will initiate a slow drip of water into the bucket.
Step 4: Adjust the drip rate
Use an adjustable valve or tie a knot in the airline tubing to regulate the drip rate. Aim for approximately 2-4 drips per second.
The slow drip helps gradually mix the water in the bucket with the water from the transport bag, preventing any sudden changes in water parameters.
Step 5: Monitor the process
Keep an eye on the acclimation process and periodically test the water parameters in the bucket using a test kit. This helps ensure a smooth transition.
Depending on the sensitivity of the animals and the water parameters involved, the acclimation process may take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours.
Step 6: Adjust water volume if needed
If the water volume in the bucket becomes too high, you can remove some water and continue the drip acclimation process with fresh, dechlorinated water. Be cautious not to remove too much water, as it can lead to sudden changes in water parameters.
Step 7: Transfer the animals to the tank
Once the acclimation process is complete, gently net the aquatic animals from the bucket and transfer them to the tank. Avoid adding the water from the acclimation container to the tank to prevent any potential contamination.
Step 8: Dispose of the acclimation water
After transferring the animals, discard the acclimation water from the bucket. Do not pour it directly into any drains or natural bodies of water.
By following these steps, you can safely and gradually acclimate your shrimp, snails, and fish to their new tank environment after transport. Remember, it's important to monitor the process closely and make adjustments as necessary to ensure a smooth transition for your aquatic pets.