Emerald Green Rainbowfish (Glossolepis wanamensis) The Emerald Green Rainbowfish, also known as the Lake Wanam Rainbowfish, is a rare and beautiful freshwater rainbowfish from Papua New Guinea. Mature males can develop a deep emerald-green to blue-green sheen, subtle body striping and impressive finnage, especially when kept in a proper group with females and rival males. This is a peaceful, active shoaling species for a mature planted aquarium, and because it is critically endangered in the wild, captive-bred aquarium populations are especially valuable. Common Name:Emerald Green Rainbowfish. Also commonly referred to as the Emerald Rainbowfish, Lake Wanam Rainbowfish or Wanam Rainbowfish. Scientific Name (Latin):Glossolepis wanamensis Maximum Size:Around 9–10.5 cm in captivity, with mature males usually becoming deeper-bodied and more colourful than females. Water Type:Freshwater Origin / Natural Habitat:Endemic to Lake Wanam in Papua New Guinea, a small highland lake situated inland from Lae. In the wild, this species is associated with clear freshwater lake habitat, aquatic vegetation, driftwood cover and open swimming areas. It is now extremely threatened in its natural range, largely due to introduced species and habitat pressure. Water Parameters:Temperature: 25–30°CpH Range: 7.0–8.0Hardness: moderately hard to hard water preferred Temperament:Peaceful and suitable for a well-planned community aquarium. It is active and social, so it should be kept with other peaceful fish that will not bully it or be stressed by its constant swimming activity. Diet:Omnivorous. It should be offered a varied diet including quality flake, micro pellets, small granules, spirulina-based foods and frozen or live foods such as daphnia, brineshrimp, bloodworm and mosquito larvae. A varied diet helps support strong colour, growth and breeding condition. Minimum Tank Size:A practical recommendation is at least 180–200 litres, with a 4ft aquarium preferred for a proper group and long-term swimming space. Behaviour & Activity:This is an active mid-to-upper level shoaling fish that should be kept in a group of at least 6, ideally 8 or more. Males display their best colour when kept with females and other males, especially in a mature aquarium with planted margins, open swimming space and stable water quality. Like many rainbowfish, it may jump when startled, so a secure lid is recommended. Aquarium Category:Community FishThis species is peaceful and works well with other robust, non-aggressive community fish that enjoy similar water conditions. Suitable tank mates include other rainbowfish, peaceful barbs, larger tetras, danios, Corydoras, bristlenose plecos and calm dwarf cichlids. Avoid aggressive fish, persistent fin nippers, very shy species and soft acidic blackwater fish that prefer very different water chemistry. Special Requirements or Care Notes:Best kept in a mature, well-filtered aquarium with excellent oxygenation, gentle to moderate flow and regular partial water changes. It benefits from planted areas, darker substrate and plenty of open swimming room. As this species is critically endangered in the wild, captive-bred stock should be prioritised, and pure breeding lines should be maintained responsibly where possible. Suitable for:Intermediate fishkeepers Availability:Rare / occasional in trade, usually as captive-bred stock All images are a visual representation of the fish you will receive, made to be as accurate as possible. Please note that Mother Nature is a wonderful thing, and variation in patterns and colours will occur — that is part of the unique beauty of these animals.
