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The Turquoise Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia lacustris) is a truly stunning and highly sought-after species, originating from the crystal-clear waters of Lake Kutubu in Papua New Guinea. Renowned for its brilliant and iridescent coloration, this fish adds a dynamic splash of color to any aquarium. Mature males are particularly captivating, exhibiting a dazzling, metallic turquoise-blue body that shimmers with hints of green, yellow, and sometimes even orange, especially on their fins and dorsal area. Their bodies are deep and laterally compressed, with striking red or orange highlights on their fins that provide a beautiful contrast to their primary blue hue. Females are generally more subdued in color but still attractive, displaying softer shades of blue and silver. Growing to an average size of 4-5 inches (10-12 cm), these active and peaceful schooling fish thrive in community setups. They require a well-planted aquarium with ample open swimming space, as they are constant movers and enjoy darting about in groups. A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for a small school, but larger tanks (55+ gallons) are ideal to fully appreciate their schooling behavior and vibrant colors. Turquoise Rainbowfish prefer neutral to slightly alkaline water (pH 7.0-8.0) with a temperature range of 74-82°F (23-28°C) and moderate hardness. They are omnivores and readily accept a varied diet of high-quality flake foods, pellets, and live or frozen fare such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. A diverse diet is crucial for maintaining their spectacular coloration and overall health. Their peaceful temperament makes them excellent companions for other similarly sized and tempered community fish, including other rainbowfish, larger tetras, rasboras, peaceful barbs, and Corydoras. The Turquoise Rainbowfish is a magnificent choice for aquarists looking to introduce vibrant color, active behavior, and robust health into their freshwater aquarium.