Lake Wanam Rainbowfish - Glossolepis wanamensis : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Immerse yourself in the captivating allure of Lake Wanam Rainbowfish (Glossolepis wanamensis), a truly stunning species that adds a touch of elegance to any planted community aquarium. These magnificent creatures are not only pleasing to the eye but also boast a peaceful nature, making them perfect companions for a harmonious aquatic environment.
Sadly, Lake Wanam Rainbowfish finds itself in a precarious situation, classified as 'critically endangered' on the esteemed IUCN Red List of endangered species. The primary factors contributing to this alarming status are the introduction of non-native, predatory carp and Tilapia and the encroachment of human settlements around the lake. However, there is a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness. Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, Lake Wanam Rainbowfish is now commercially bred in Germany, ensuring that the specimens you encounter in stores are ethically tank-raised, preserving what remains of the wild population.
To fully appreciate the beauty of Lake Wanam Rainbowfish, it is recommended to keep them in groups of six or more. Their dynamic behaviour and moderate adult size necessitate an aquarium that spans at least 4 feet, granting these graceful swimmers ample room to glide through the water. Fear not, as these gentle creatures will not pose a threat to smaller tankmates; their slender mouths prevent them from devouring their companions. Fellow Rainbowfish, Livebearers, Catfish, Peacock Gudgeons, or Panda Garras will all make suitable tankmates for these Rainbowfish.
Creating a suitable habitat for Lake Wanam Rainbowfish requires careful attention to detail. The aquarium should be densely planted, offering numerous hiding spots where the fish can seek refuge. Efficient filtration is vital, but ensuring gentle water movement is equally important. Regular partial water changes are essential to maintain low nitrate levels, as this species is particularly sensitive to accumulating organic waste. Additionally, a secure, tight-fitting lid is highly recommended to prevent any unfortunate escapes.
Similar to many other Rainbowfish species, the juveniles of Lake Wanam Rainbowfish may initially appear dull compared to their awe-inspiring adult counterparts, often overlooked by casual observers. However, once settled into the secure haven of a planted aquarium, these young specimens will undergo a remarkable transformation, unveiling their true adult magnificence. The males, in particular, will captivate you with their splendid appearance, as the dominant male proudly displays the most vibrant colours.
Adult males of Lake Wanam Rainbowfish typically exhibit a striking overall greenish hue, complemented by a delicate rosy flush on the breast. Furthermore, the scales in the anterior rows below the lateral line are adorned with slender orange lines that gracefully transition to shades of green or blue towards the tail. In addition, a mesmerising metallic green colouration often graces the upper half of their bodies. Notably, the male's anal fin is exceptionally large and elongated, reaching an impressive depth of nearly 3 centimetres.
Lake Wanam Rainbowfish Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Lake Wanam Rainbowfish is a straightforward task facilitated by noticeable characteristics. Female specimens typically exhibit a subdued, dull greenish colouration, accompanied by shorter fins, resulting in a more unremarkable appearance when compared to their male counterparts. Conversely, males stand out prominently due to their vibrant hues and the presence of a significantly larger anal fin.
In terms of size, males of the species can attain a maximum length of 10 cm, while females generally reach a slightly smaller size, averaging less than 8 cm. Adult Lake Wanam Rainbowfish, particularly the males, display a pronounced body depth, measuring around 4-5 cm, resulting in a strikingly deep-bodied physique.
These distinguishing features contribute to the visual distinction between male and female Lake Wanam Rainbowfish, allowing observers to discern their gender with relative ease.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Glossolepis wanamensis |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1979 |
| Other Names | Emerald Rainbowfish |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Atheriniformes |
| Family | Melanotaeniidae |
| Genus | Glossolepis |
| Origins | Papua New Guinea |
| Max Size | 10.5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 8 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 7.0 - 8.0 |
| GH | 5 - 20 |
| ℉ | 77 - 86 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 25 - 30 |
Natural Habitat
Embark on an intriguing exploration of Lake Wanam, a pristine high-altitude lake nestled in a secluded valley, located 24 kilometres inland from Lae, Papua New Guinea. Spanning approximately 3.7 square kilometres, this gorgeous body of water is the exclusive home to the Lake Wanam Rainbowfish.
The crystal-clear waters offer a glimpse into a thriving ecosystem, where sub-surface vegetation, submerged logs, branches, and reeds create a natural haven along the sunlit shores. Nestled amidst this scenic landscape, water lilies and lotus blossoms add a touch of elegance to the picturesque surroundings.
The lake is embraced by the majestic presence of grass-covered hills, forming a captivating backdrop that accentuates the serenity of the water. Here, the Lake Wanam Rainbowfish gracefully navigate their habitat, vibrantly adding to the peaceful setting.
Breeding
Establishing an Effective Breeding Setup for Lake Wanam Rainbowfish requires a dedicated breeding aquarium equipped with specific conditions. Using a good-sized breeding aquarium is recommended, incorporating 75% mature tank water and 25% dechlorinated fresh water. To ensure gentle circulation and filtration, adding a small air-driven sponge filter is advised while maintaining the temperature at the higher end of the preferred range.
Next, a conditioned pair of Lake Wanam Rainbowfish should be carefully acclimated to the breeding aquarium. The aquarium itself should be furnished with an abundance of fine-leaved plants or clusters of Java moss, providing suitable hiding places and creating a conducive environment for spawning. As the courtship progresses, the male will swim in front of the female, showcasing the distinctive mating stripe on his forehead. This display is often followed by the male driving the female over the plants, utilising the entire tank length.
During the spawning process, the eggs will be scattered over the plants in small batches. As a result, Lake Wanam Rainbowfish are known as "continual spawners," indicating that the spawning activity occurs over a period of several days or even months. This can pose challenges for the aquarist, as some adult fish may consume the scattered eggs. However, many experienced fish keepers have discovered that the eggs possess remarkable resilience, enabling successful siphoning into a separate aquarium for safeguarding.
Under optimal conditions, the eggs typically hatch within 6-9 days, with the hatched fry transitioning into free-swimming individuals. At this stage, it is essential to provide appropriate nourishment. Initially, infusoria can be offered as a suitable food source for the tiny fry. As they continue to develop, a gradual shift towards larger foodstuffs such as baby brine shrimp and finely crushed flake foods is recommended.
Diet & Feeding
In their natural habitat, Lake Wanam Rainbowfish primarily consume insects as a vital component of their diet. However, to ensure their optimal health and well-being within an aquarium setting, a balanced nutritional regimen must incorporate both vegetable-based and meaty foods.
To achieve this, it is recommended to utilise dry prepared foods as a foundation, complementing them with live meaty options such as brine shrimp and bloodworms. This combination provides a comprehensive dietary profile that meets the diverse nutritional requirements of Lake Wanam Rainbowfish, enabling them to thrive in a captive environment.
Aquarists can contribute to these magnificent creatures' overall vitality by offering a blend of plant-based and protein-rich sustenance.
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