Pagwi Rainbowfish
A robust New Guinea rainbowfish with a golden-yellow body and red-edged fins. Larger and hardier than many of its relatives.
Feeding
Flake, micro-pellets and frozen daphnia, bloodworm and brine shrimp. Feeds mainly in the upper half of the tank and takes food readily.
Compatibility
Peaceful but fast and active. Keep in groups of six or more with a mix of sexes. Best with other rainbowfish, larger tetras and barbs rather than slow or long-finned species.
Behaviour and personality
Powerful, constantly moving swimmers. Males display hard to one another and to females, flaring fins and flashing a bright stripe across the forehead.
Before you buy
Juveniles in shop tanks look washed out; the adult colour takes six to twelve months to arrive.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Origin | New Guinea |
| Size (adult) | Up to 6 cm |
| Lifespan | 5 to 7 years |
| Water Temperature | 22–28°C |
| Water pH | 6.0–7.5 |
FAQ
How long does it take for Pagwi Rainbowfish to develop their full adult color?
It takes six to twelve months for juvenile Pagwi Rainbowfish to develop their full adult color.
What kind of tank mates are suitable for Pagwi Rainbowfish?
Best kept with other rainbowfish, larger tetras, and barbs. Avoid slow or long-finned species.
Do Pagwi Rainbowfish require special feeding habits?
They accept flake, micro-pellets, and frozen foods like daphnia, bloodworm, and brine shrimp. Feed them in the upper half of the tank.




Alan Taylor –
The fish are active and colorful once they mature. I kept them in a 60-liter tank with other rainbowfish and they swim well. The color change after six months was impressive.
Alan Mackenzie –
They are hardy and easy to care for. I noticed the red edges on the fins after a few months. They do get quite active, so make sure your tank has enough space.
Ryan Carr –
Great addition to a community tank. The males display during breeding season, which is fascinating to watch. Took about nine months to see the full golden-yellow body.
Nicola Cameron –
I bought a group of six. They get along well with other tetras. Just make sure the tank is not too small and has good water flow.
Samantha Hughes –
The fish are very lively and show off their colors well. After a year, they look vibrant and healthy. A good choice for an active aquarium.