spotted iris
The spotted iris, scientific name Glossolepis maculosus, belongs to the family Melanotaeniidae (Rainbows). The fish comes from the island of New Guinea. Occurs in the basins of the Markham and Ramu rivers at the eastern tip of the island. In nature, it inhabits sections of rivers with a slow flow, swamps, quiet backwaters, places with dense aquatic vegetation along the coast, near flooded snags.
It was first used as an aquarium fish in Australia in the 1980s. Much later, the famous explorer Heiko Bleher brought this species to Europe along with some other species (Rainbow Kabi, Northern Melanothenia, etc.).
Description
Adults reach a length of 5–6 cm. Males are greenish-bronze in color with pale blue hues. A characteristic feature is the presence of several black spots, usually located along the lateral line. The number of spots varies from 4 to 10. The arrangement is unique and differs between fish. Below the lateral line in the region of the abdomen, the coloration is noticeably lighter with a predominance of silvery shades, closer to the tail it is darker with a possible manifestation of orange colors.
It is worth noting that such a bright color appears in dominant males. In the hierarchical structure, males occupying a subordinate position have a less intense coloration and in some cases resemble females.
The females are not brightly colored. The main color is pale olive with a silvery belly. However, they are also characterized by a spotted pattern.
Behavior and Compatibility
They prefer to be in groups of 6-8 individuals. Males compete with each other for the attention of females. Often, during the competition, a winner appears, which is easy to determine by color.
Compatible with related rainbowfish species, as well as many other fish of comparable size and temperament.
Brief information:
- The volume of the aquarium – from 60 liters.
- Temperature – 24-28°C
- Value pH — 7.0–7.8
- Water hardness – medium to high (12-20 dGH)
- Substrate type – any
- Lighting – subdued
- Brackish water – no
- Water movement is weak
- The size of the fish is up to 6 cm.
- Meals – any
- Temperament – peaceful
- Keeping a flock of at least 6-8 individuals
Maintenance and care, arrangement of the aquarium
The optimal size of the aquarium starts from 60-80 liters for a flock of 6-8 individuals. The design uses a large number of aquatic plants, including floating ones, and natural driftwood. Shelters are formed from decoration elements, while maintaining open spaces for swimming.
Comfortable conditions are considered to be warm water with neutral or slightly alkaline pH values with moderate hardness. However, similar conditions apply to wild fish. Most of the Spotted Rainbowfish in the aquarium hobby have probably lived in a different environment for several generations, so it is recommended to maintain the water parameters that have become familiar to the fish.
The content is simple. It will be necessary to replace part of the water with fresh water weekly, combining this with the removal of organic waste, and carry out preventive maintenance of equipment.
Food
An omnivorous species, it will take a variety of foods. It can be dry, freeze-dried, live or frozen products intended for feeding aquarium fish.
