Bleher’s Rainbowfish (Chilatherina bleheri) 5-7cm Aquarium Glaser

Chilatherina bleheri is a graceful, medium‑sized rainbowfish prized for its metallic green‑blue body, fiery red fins, and shimmering pastel tones. It’s a peaceful, very active shoaling species that truly shines in well‑planted, spacious aquaria with excellent water quality. 

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Identification & Appearance

• Adult size:
  • Males up to ~12 cm (4.7 in)
  • Females usually <10 cm
• Colouration:
  • Upper body silvery to bluish‑green
  • Rear body and fins shaded yellow, orange to red
  • Males develop a bright yellow‑orange forehead stripe when in breeding condition
• Body shape:
  • Males become deep‑bodied and more robust with age
  • Females slimmer, paler, more silvery

These dramatic sex differences make mixed‑sex groups especially attractive. 

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Natural Distribution & Habitat

• Endemic to: West Papua (Indonesia)
• Exact locality: Lake Holmes (Danau Bira), lower Mamberamo River system
• Habitat:
  • Shallow, plant‑rich lakes and rocky feeder streams
  • Clear freshwater with shoreline vegetation and submerged wood
  • Foothill jungle environment at ~430 m elevation

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Aquarium Water Parameters

Parameter	Recommended Range
Temperature	23–27 °C (73–81 °F)
pH	6.8–7.8 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
Hardness	Soft to moderately hard (up to ~18 °dH)
Flow	Moderate
Oxygenation	High

They tolerate a range of conditions but develop best colour and vigour in clean, stable water. 

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Tank Setup

• Minimum tank size: ~120 L / 30 gal (larger strongly preferred)
• Group size: 6+ individuals (ideally more females than males)
• Layout:
  • Long tank for cruising swimmers
  • Dense planting at sides/back (Vallisneria, Java fern, swords)
  • Open swimming area in the centre
  • Driftwood and root structures mimic natural habitat
• Cover: Secure lid – rainbowfish are accomplished jumpers

A long, planted aquarium dramatically enhances male coloration and courtship displays. 

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Diet

An omnivore with strong carnivorous preferences.

• Staple foods: High‑quality flakes or micro‑pellets
• Supplements (several times weekly):
  • Daphnia
  • Baby brine shrimp
  • Cyclops
  • Finely chopped bloodworms
• Plant content: Spirulina/vegetable flakes help balance digestion

A varied diet is key to maintaining intense red and orange fin colour. 

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Temperament & Compatibility

• Temperament: Peaceful, energetic
• Social behaviour: Strong schooling instinct
• Compatible tankmates:
  • Other peaceful rainbowfish
  • Corydoras catfish
  • Small loaches
  • Calm tetras of similar size

They will not harass smaller fish but may be outcompeted for food by very aggressive feeders. 

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Breeding Notes

• Breeding type: Egg‑scatterer and frequent spawner
• Spawning sites: Java moss, fine‑leaved plants, spawning mops
• Egg care: Eggs laid over several days; adults may eat them
• Fry food: Infusoria → microworms → baby brine shrimp

For best results, use a separate breeding tank and remove adults after spawning. 

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Why Keep Chilatherina bleheri

• One of the most elegant Chilatherina rainbowfish
• Striking sexual dimorphism and courtship displays
• Excellent centerpiece school for planted tanks
• Ethically sourced due to strong captive‑breeding presence

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