Forktail Rainbowfish

Description

Forktail Rainbowfish (Pseudomugil furcatus)

The Forktail Rainbowfish is a small but dazzling freshwater fish, loved for its electric yellow fins, forked tail, and constant shimmering movement. Despite its delicate appearance, this species is surprisingly hardy and brings a lively, energetic presence to peaceful community aquariums. When kept in groups, Forktail Rainbows display their best colours and fascinating social behaviour, making them a standout choice for planted and nature-style aquariums.

Native to Papua New Guinea, Forktail Rainbowfish inhabit slow-moving streams and creeks rich in vegetation. Their natural environment has shaped them into active mid-to-top level swimmers that thrive in well-oxygenated, clean water with gentle flow.

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🌈 Why You’ll Love the Forktail Rainbowfish

• 💛 Brilliant yellow forked tail and fins

• ✨ Shimmering silver-blue body that reflects light beautifully

• 👯 Peaceful schooling fish ideal for community tanks

• 🌿 Perfect for planted aquariums and aquascapes

• 🎯 Active and engaging behaviour without aggression

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🐠 Appearance & Behaviour

Forktail Rainbowfish remain small, reaching an adult size of around 4–5 cm. Males are especially striking, displaying extended dorsal fins, intense yellow coloration, and bold black fin markings. Females are slightly smaller and more subtly coloured but still attractive.

These fish are highly social and should be kept in groups of at least 6, with larger groups encouraging better colour and natural courtship displays. Males often display to one another in short, harmless fin-flaring interactions that add interest without stress or injury.

They occupy the upper to mid-water levels, constantly swimming and exploring, making them ideal for tanks where movement and sparkle are desired.

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🏡 Tank Requirements & Care

Forktail Rainbowfish do best in stable, mature aquariums with excellent water quality.

Tank Size:

• Minimum 60 litres for a small group

• Larger tanks provide better swimming space and social interaction

Water Parameters:

• 🌡 Temperature: 23–28°C

• 💧 pH: 6.5–7.5

• 💦 Soft to moderately hard water

Filtration & Flow:

• Good filtration with gentle to moderate flow

• Well-oxygenated water is essential

Regular water changes are important, as this species is sensitive to poor water quality.

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🍽 Feeding

Forktail Rainbowfish are micro-predators and thrive on a varied diet of small foods.

Recommended diet:

• High-quality micro pellets or fine flakes

• Frozen or live foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and mosquito larvae

• Occasional powdered or crushed foods for smaller mouths

Frequent small feedings help maintain energy levels and enhance colour.

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👯 Tank Mates

Thanks to their peaceful nature, Forktail Rainbowfish are excellent community fish when paired with similarly sized, calm species.

Suitable tank mates include:

• Other small rainbowfish

• Peaceful tetras

• Corydoras

• Rasboras

• Small peaceful livebearers

Avoid aggressive fish or large species that may outcompete them for food.

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🌿 Aquascaping Inspiration

Forktail Rainbowfish truly shine in planted aquariums with:

• Dense plant growth along the edges

• Open swimming areas near the surface

• Driftwood or root décor

• Floating plants to soften lighting

Dark substrates and natural aquascapes enhance their bright fin colours beautifully.

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📌 Quick Facts

• Common Name: Forktail Rainbowfish

• Scientific Name: Pseudomugil furcatus

• Adult Size: 4–5 cm

• Temperament: Peaceful

• Care Level: Moderate

• Diet: Omnivore / Micro-predator

• Water Type: Freshwater

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✨ If you’re looking for a small fish with big personality and eye-catching colour, the Forktail Rainbowfish is a stunning addition that brings energy, elegance, and constant motion to any peaceful freshwater aquarium.

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