RED NEON BLUE EYED RAINBOWFISH | PSEUDOMUGIL LUMINATUS

The Red Neon Blue-Eyed Rainbowfish (Pseudomugil luminatus) is a dazzling nano fish species admired for its electric coloration and lively personality. Native to small rainforest streams and lagoons in Papua New Guinea, this rainbowfish displays stunning iridescent red-orange hues along its body, paired with brilliant sky-blue eyes that seem to glow under aquarium lighting—making it one of the most striking small schooling fish available.

Adult males typically grow to about 1.2 inches (3 cm) and are more vividly colored, especially when displaying to females. They exhibit extended dorsal and anal fins lined with white or blue edges and perform graceful, fluttering courtship displays. Females are slightly smaller, with subtler coloration but equal charm and activity.

Ideal water parameters:
Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: 5–15 dGH

Tank setup: Red Neon Blue-Eyed Rainbowfish thrive in well-planted aquariums with clean, well-oxygenated water and gentle flow. A 10- to 20-gallon tank is ideal for a small school. Use dark substrates and moderate lighting to enhance their neon colors. Floating plants, fine-leaved species like Java Moss or Guppy Grass, and open swimming space create the perfect environment. They are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six or more to feel secure and display their best colors.

Diet: These fish are micro-predators and omnivores. Offer them a varied diet of high-quality micro-pellets or flakes, along with live or frozen foods such as daphnia, baby brine shrimp, bloodworms, and cyclops. Frequent small feedings help maintain their energy and coloration.

Temperament and tankmates: Peaceful and social, Red Neon Blue-Eyed Rainbowfish are excellent community fish for nano or planted aquariums. Ideal tankmates include small, calm species like endlers, guppies, rasboras, tetras, ricefish, and corydoras. Avoid larger or aggressive species that might stress or outcompete them.

Breeding: Males perform beautiful display dances to attract females, who scatter adhesive eggs among fine plants or spawning mops. With gentle care, fry can be raised separately on infusoria or powdered fry foods.

In summary, the Red Neon Blue-Eyed Rainbowfish (Pseudomugil luminatus) is a radiant, energetic, and peaceful schooling fish that adds incredible color and motion to any freshwater aquarium. With its glowing red body, electric blue eyes, and lively social behavior, it’s a must-have species for aquarists seeking beauty, harmony, and activity in a small package.