Red Rainbow

Red Rainbow (Glossolepis incisus) is the trade name commonly used for the Salmon Red Rainbowfish — the same species as the Irian Red Rainbow. Fully mature males develop the species' spectacular deep salmon-red to crimson whole-body coloration, while females and juveniles are olive-brown to silver. The high, arched back profile of adult males is distinctive and unmistakable.

Feeding & Care Tip: Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes and Hikari Micro Pellets make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms to develop and maintain the vivid red coloration. Crush flakes for juveniles; soak pellets. Note that juveniles are pale and take 12–18 months to develop full male coloration.

Native to Lake Sentani, West Papua, Indonesia. Care requirements are identical to the Irian Red Rainbow — both names refer to the same species. Slightly hard, alkaline water with excellent filtration and regular water changes produces the deepest red coloration in mature males.

Keep in groups of at least six with mixed sexes. Males display actively to one another with fin-spreading and body darkening. Completely peaceful with other medium to large community fish. Best appreciated in a long aquarium where the full body profile of adult males can be seen.

A well-planted aquarium with open swimming space in the center replicates the rainbowfish's natural riverine habitat. These are active, fast-swimming fish that appreciate length more than height — a longer tank allows them to build up speed and display properly. Good filtration and regular partial water changes are important, as rainbowfish are sensitive to deteriorating water quality. Avoid very small or slow-moving tankmates that may be outcompeted at feeding time.

Care & Ideal Parameters