Add movement and colour to your aquarium with Boesemani Rainbows 4cm. Also known as Boeseman’s Rainbowfish or Bicolor Rainbowfish, this classic species is famous for its split colour pattern – a deep blue front half and bright orange‑yellow back half that looks incredible in a planted tank.
At around 4cm, these Boesemani Rainbows are juveniles, so you’ll get to enjoy watching them grow, fill out and develop their full adult colours in your care.
Natural Habitat and Behaviour
In the wild, Boesemani rainbows are found in shallow, swampy, densely vegetated waters, where they cruise in loose shoals and pick at small invertebrates and algae. In the aquarium, Boesemani Rainbows 4cm are:
- Active mid‑water swimmers
- Best kept in groups of 6 or more
- Generally peaceful, but males can be territorial with each other
To reduce aggression, keep a single male with several females, or a larger group in a bigger tank so males can display without constant conflict.
Tank Requirements for Boesemani Rainbows 4cm
To help Boesemani Rainbows 4cm thrive:
- Tank size: Minimum 3ft (around 120L) for a group, larger is better
- Temperature: 24–28°C
- pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline (around 7.0–8.0)
- Hardness: Prefer medium to hard water
- Aquascape: Open swimming space with plants, wood and some shaded areas
Good filtration and regular water changes are essential – Boesemani are active fish and appreciate clean, well‑oxygenated water.
Suitable Tank Mates
Boesemani Rainbows 4cm are ideal for peaceful community setups with similarly sized fish. Good tank mates include:
- Larger, peaceful tetras
- Rasboras and danios
- Peaceful barbs
- Corydoras and other bottom‑dwelling catfish
- Non‑aggressive dwarf cichlids such as Kribensis
Avoid fin‑nippers and very small, delicate fish that may be outcompeted at feeding time.
Feeding Boesemani Rainbows 4cm
In nature, Boesemani rainbows feed on small crustaceans, insects and algae. In the aquarium, Boesemani Rainbows 4cm will happily accept:
- Quality tropical flakes and pellets
- Small granules and micro‑pellets
- Frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia and bloodworm
- Occasional live foods as a treat
Offer small amounts 1–2 times daily, ensuring all food is eaten within a few minutes. A varied diet will help bring out the best colour and condition in your Boesemani Rainbows.
General Care Tips for Boesemani Rainbows 4cm
- Keep Boesemani Rainbows 4cm in groups for confidence and natural behaviour
- Provide a secure lid – they can jump when startled
- Maintain stable water parameters and avoid sudden changes
- Combine open swimming areas with plants and decor for cover
With the right care, your Boesemani Rainbows 4cm will grow into vibrant, eye‑catching adults that become a true centrepiece in your community aquarium.
