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Madagascar Rainbow

Description

Distribution

Known only from small streams and the lower reaches of rivers, most of which drain into a series of coastal lagoons and lakes in Atsinanana region, eastern Madagascar. Although the extent of its historical range is unclear, modern distribution extends southwards from the lower Ivoloina River, just north of Toamasina city, as far as Manambalo Creek which lies south of the town of Vatomandry.

The lakes and rivers along this stretch of coastline are connected by the Canal des Pangalanes, an artificial waterway constructed to allow boat transport throughout the natural lake system. It’s the longest man-made canal in the world, extending for some 600 km.

South of Manambalo Creek and in the middle and upper Ivoloina River this species is replaced by undescribed members of the genus,  in middle and upper sections of rivers within the boundaries of its range by B. leucopteron, and north of the Ivoloina by B. longianalis.

Habitat

Inhabits clear, flowing streams at altitudes up to 30 m AMSL, and shows a preference for habitats partially or completely shaded by riparian vegetation where water flow is not too strong. All habitats are characterised by extremely soft freshwater, and it has also been collected from blackwater swamp habitats with low pH and tannin-stained water. In unshaded or turbid environments it’s replaced by introduced Gambusia holbrooki and Xiphophorus maculatus.

Young specimens have been observed to congregate in shallow, marginal zones with adults preferring deeper water, and is normally found in groups of ‘up to several dozen’ (Loiselle and Rodriguez, 2007). The species is also fished for food across the majority of its range.

Maximum Standard Length

80 – 100 mm.

Water Conditions

Temperature: A range of 23 – 32 °C has been recorded in its natural waters during a single month.

pH: 4.5 – 7.5. Wild specimens are likely to require more acidic water then farmed fish.

Hardness0 – 268 ppm

Madagascar Rainbow

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    Description

    Distribution

    Known only from small streams and the lower reaches of rivers, most of which drain into a series of coastal lagoons and lakes in Atsinanana region, eastern Madagascar. Although the extent of its historical range is unclear, modern distribution extends southwards from the lower Ivoloina River, just north of Toamasina city, as far as Manambalo Creek which lies south of the town of Vatomandry.

    The lakes and rivers along this stretch of coastline are connected by the Canal des Pangalanes, an artificial waterway constructed to allow boat transport throughout the natural lake system. It’s the longest man-made canal in the world, extending for some 600 km.

    South of Manambalo Creek and in the middle and upper Ivoloina River this species is replaced by undescribed members of the genus,  in middle and upper sections of rivers within the boundaries of its range by B. leucopteron, and north of the Ivoloina by B. longianalis.

    Habitat

    Inhabits clear, flowing streams at altitudes up to 30 m AMSL, and shows a preference for habitats partially or completely shaded by riparian vegetation where water flow is not too strong. All habitats are characterised by extremely soft freshwater, and it has also been collected from blackwater swamp habitats with low pH and tannin-stained water. In unshaded or turbid environments it’s replaced by introduced Gambusia holbrooki and Xiphophorus maculatus.

    Young specimens have been observed to congregate in shallow, marginal zones with adults preferring deeper water, and is normally found in groups of ‘up to several dozen’ (Loiselle and Rodriguez, 2007). The species is also fished for food across the majority of its range.

    Maximum Standard Length

    80 – 100 mm.

    Water Conditions

    Temperature: A range of 23 – 32 °C has been recorded in its natural waters during a single month.

    pH: 4.5 – 7.5. Wild specimens are likely to require more acidic water then farmed fish.

    Hardness0 – 268 ppm

    Live Arrival & Ordering FAQ

    Do you offer a live arrival guarantee?

    Yes. All livestock is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

    In the rare event of DOA, please contact us promptly with clear photos of the livestock in the original unopened bag.

    Please review our full DOA and store policies before purchase.

    Can you ship to all states in Australia?

    No. Due to state restrictions, we cannot ship livestock or live plants to WA and TAS.

    What should I check before ordering?

    Before placing an order, make sure:

    • Your tank is fully cycled and stable
    • Your aquarium has enough space for the species
    • Your current livestock are compatible in temperament, size, and requirements
    • Your water parameters, habitat, and temperature suit the species
    • You are not adding too many fish at once
    What should I expect when my fish arrives?

    It is normal for fish, shrimp, or snails to look pale, stressed, or less active after shipping.

    This is temporary. Most livestock will settle and regain colour within a few days.

    How long does it take for fish to settle in?

    Most livestock will take 3–7 days to fully adjust to their new environment.

    Should I feed my fish immediately after arrival?

    No. We recommend waiting 24 hours before feeding to allow them to settle.

    If you already have fish in your tank, feeding them before introducing new arrivals can help reduce stress.

    Why do fish sometimes struggle after being added to a tank?

    In most cases, issues are caused by tank conditions, not shipping.

    • Uncycled or unstable tanks
    • Poor water parameters
    • Overstocking
    • Unsuitable tank mates
    What is Nano Tanks Australia’s main tip for new livestock?

    Most livestock losses happen in immature or unstable tanks, not during shipping.

    If your setup is not fully established, the risk to new arrivals is significantly higher.

    Not sure if this fish is right for your setup?

    If you are unsure whether this species suits your setup, contact us before ordering and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

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