Boeseman's Rainbowfish

Melanotaenia boesemani

The Boeseman's Rainbowfish is one of the many species in the Rainbowfish family. All are colorful, freshwater fish that are found in Australia and New Guinea.

This particular fish measures only about 4inches in length, and hails from the Western end of  New Guinea. Both males and females have the bright coloration, though males are larger and more vibrant. Their bright colors and ease of ownership make them especially popular for aquarists.

Unfortunately that popularity caused some serious harm to the species. In the 1980's over 60,000 males were exported every month. The high volume of capture bestowed the Rainbowfish with an "Endangered" status with the IUCN. Captive fish now come from fish farms, rather than from nature.

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IUCN Status : Endangered

Location : West New Guinea

Size : Length 4in (10cm)

Classification : Phylum : Chordata -- Class : Actinopterygii -- Order : Atheriniformes
Family : Melanotaeniidae -- Genus : Melanotaenia-- Species : M. boesemani