Dwarf rainbowfish
(Melanotaenia praecox)
Classification
Species:
Melanotaenia praecox
Family: Melanotaeniidae - Rainbowfishes
Order: Atheriniformes - Silversides
Superclass: Osteichthyes - Bony fishes
General data
Scientific names:
Dwarf rainbowfish
Habitat:
Freshwater
Climate:
Tropical
Native:
Australia & Oceania
Distribution:
Endemic to the Mamberamo river system, New Guinea, Indonesia. This is one of the largest river systems on the island, being over 2000 km long.
Tends to inhabit swiftly flowing tributaries off the main river, as well as surrounding swamps and marshes. The fish congregate around areas of aquatic vegetation, or submerged roots and logs.
Maximum Standard Length: 3.2″ (8 cm), although usually smaller in aquaria.