Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish
The Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia praecox) is a small, bright blue species of rainbowfish native to New Guinea.
Minimum Tank Size: 20 Gallons
Maximum Fish Size: 3″
Water Temperature: 73F – 83F
Ideal pH: 6.8 – 7.5
Water Hardness: 8 – 12 dGH
Temperament: Schooling species, peaceful and active. May be timid in too small of a school. Best results in large groups of 10+ members.
| Key Care Notes |
|---|
| Always cycle the aquarium before adding fish. Adding fish to a new, un-cycled tank can be fatal. |
FAQ
What is the ideal water temperature for Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish?
The ideal water temperature is between 73F and 83F.
How many Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish should be kept together?
They are schooling fish and perform best in groups of 10 or more for optimal behavior and safety.
Can Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish live in a tank smaller than 20 gallons?
No, a minimum tank size of 20 gallons is required for their health and well-being.

Matt Carr –
I bought a group of 12 Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish and they’ve been active and colorful since day one. The tank is 25 gallons and the water parameters are stable. They swim together in the morning and evening, which is very enjoyable to watch.
Andrew Campbell –
The fish are bright blue and very peaceful. I kept them in a 20-gallon tank with a heater and regular water testing. They don’t stress easily and stay calm even when other fish are around.
Rebecca Turner –
After cycling the tank properly, the rainbowfish thrived. They swim in tight groups and are very lively. I followed the advice to keep at least 10 fish together and it made a big difference.