Alleni Rainbowfish (Chilatherina alleni) – Tank-Bred

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The Alleni Rainbowfish (Chilatherina alleni) is a rare and strikingly beautiful species native to the remote regions of Papua New Guinea. Named after Dr. Gerald R. Allen, a renowned ichthyologist specializing in rainbowfish, this species is known for its iridescent body that shifts between shimmering silver, green, and blue tones with hints of red or orange on the fins. Hardy and active, the Alleni Rainbowfish is a wonderful centerpiece fish for planted and community aquariums.

What We Love About This Fish:

• Stunning Coloration: Exhibits a metallic sheen with hues of silver, blue, green, and orange that intensify as the fish matures.
• Active and Social: Energetic swimmers that thrive in schools, adding movement and vibrancy to the tank.
• Hardy and Adaptable: Can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, making them suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists.
• Planted Tank Friendly: Their non-destructive nature makes them ideal for planted aquascapes.

Natural Habitat:

The Alleni Rainbowfish is endemic to the freshwater rivers and streams of Papua New Guinea, where it thrives in clear, fast-flowing waters with a mix of rocky and vegetative environments. These habitats are characterized by moderate to high oxygen levels and stable temperatures.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Thrives in a planted setup with hardy species like Java Fern, Anubias, Vallisneria, and Amazon Swords. Floating plants such as Frogbit or Red Root Floaters provide shade, mimicking their natural environment.
• Hardscape: River rocks, driftwood, and sandy or fine-gravel substrate create a natural and comfortable habitat.
• Botanicals: Indian Almond Leaves or alder cones can be added to improve water quality and mimic tannin-rich environments.

Diet and Feeding:

Alleni Rainbowfish are omnivores with a preference for high-protein foods. A balanced diet should include:

• High-quality flakes or micro pellets
• Live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms
• Occasional vegetable matter like spirulina or blanched spinach

Feeding a varied diet will enhance their colors and overall health.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

The Alleni Rainbowfish is a peaceful schooling fish that does best in groups of 6 or more. Suitable tank mates include:

• Other peaceful rainbowfish species
• Tetras, rasboras, and danios
• Bottom dwellers such as Corydoras, loaches, and Plecos
• Non-aggressive cichlids like keyhole cichlids or Apistogramma

Avoid housing them with overly aggressive species or fin-nipping fish.

Shrimp Safe:

While adult shrimp may be safe, shrimp fry are likely to be considered prey. Providing dense plant cover can improve shrimp survival rates.

Breeding:

Alleni Rainbowfish are egg scatterers and relatively easy to breed in a well-maintained tank. To encourage spawning:

• Provide fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for egg deposition
• Maintain stable, warm temperatures and a protein-rich diet
• Separate the eggs or use a breeder tank, as adults may consume the eggs

The fry are tiny and should be fed infusoria or powdered fry food before transitioning to baby brine shrimp.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 72° - 80° F (22° - 27° C)
• pH: 6.5 - 7.5
• KH: 4 - 12 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (larger recommended for schools of 6+)

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Omnivorous. Requires a varied diet of flakes, pellets, and live/frozen foods.
• Social Behavior: Peaceful, best kept in schools of 6 or more.
• Origin: Tank-bred.
• Average Adult Size: 4 - 5 inches (10 - 12.7 cm)
• Average Purchase Size: 1.5 - 2.5 inches (3.8 - 6.3 cm)

Introduce a rare and shimmering beauty to your aquarium with the Alleni Rainbowfish—a peaceful, vibrant, and active species that thrives in community and planted setups.

Live Arrival Guarantee:

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