
Care Level
Temperament
Color(s)
Diet
Preferred Conditions
Avg. Max Size
Minimum Tank Size
Family
A planted aquarium with plenty of free swimming places available is an ideal environment for Melanotaenia praecox, as it provides the fish with natural shelter and hiding places. The addition of a dark colored gravel substrate increases the intensity of the Praecox Rainbow’s colors, creating a truly stunning visual. It is important to note that the planted aquarium should be well-maintained, with regular water changes and proper filtration. Furthermore, the aquarium should be sufficiently planted to provide ample cover and hiding places for the fish.
The Praecox Rainbow is an egg layer that spawns over a moss substrate, making it a unique and interesting aquatic species for any aquarium. At a temperature of around 75°F, the fry will hatch after six or seven days, allowing for an easy and rewarding experience as an aquarium hobbyist. To ensure proper growth and health, adults should be removed from the fry after hatching. Additionally, fry should be fed small pieces of live foods such as brine shrimp to ensure they get the proper nutrients they need. Furthermore, I highly recommend providing the fry with plenty of hiding places with live plants or decorations to help them feel secure.
Praecox rainbows have large mouths, but their throats tend to be narrow. This means that their food should not be too large, and they should be fed an omnivorous diet of prepared flakes, frozen, and live foods.