Boeseman's Rainbowfish: Tank Size, Tank Mates & How Many

What size tank do Boeseman's rainbowfish need?

At least 55 gallons (208 liters) for a group of 6. The smallest standard tank that works is the 55 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable. We give the size for an adult fish in a proper group, because the small fish in the shop will grow. Scientific name: Melanotaenia boesemani.

How many Boeseman's rainbowfish in each tank size?

This is how many each standard tank carries comfortably if Boeseman's rainbowfish are the only fish in it. Share the tank with other species and the number goes down.

Tank	How many Boeseman's rainbowfish
5 gallon	Too small
10 gallon	Too small
20 gallon long	Too small
29 gallon	Too small
40 gallon breeder	Too small
55 gallon	up to 7
75 gallon	up to 10
125 gallon	up to 18

Check Boeseman's rainbowfish against your own tank and other fish

Good to know

Keep at least 6. Alone or in twos and threes, Boeseman's rainbowfish hide, stop eating well, or pick on each other.
This is a jumper. Use a lid with no gaps.

Tank mates for Boeseman's rainbowfish

These animals like the same water, are a safe size, and have a temper that fits. It is a match on paper: always watch new tankmates for the first week.

Poor matches

Fancy goldfish: Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
Oscar: Oscar is aggressive and will bully or kill peaceful fish such as Boeseman's rainbowfish.

Questions and answers

What size tank do Boeseman's rainbowfish need?

At least 55 gallons (208 liters) for a group of 6. The smallest standard tank that works is the 55 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable.

How many Boeseman's rainbowfish should be kept together?

At least 6. Boeseman's rainbowfish are social animals and only behave naturally in a group. More is better if the tank has room.

Can Boeseman's rainbowfish live in a 10 gallon tank?

No. Boeseman's rainbowfish needs at least 55 gallons (208 liters).

What temperature do Boeseman's rainbowfish need?

75–82 °F (24–28 °C), with a pH of 7–8. In most homes that means a heater.

Can Boeseman's rainbowfish live with a betta?

Usually, yes, in a tank of 55 gallons (208 liters) or more. They like the same water: 75–82 °F (24–28 °C). Every betta has its own temper, so watch closely for the first week and have a spare tank ready.

More fish

Adult size, tank size and water ranges follow the mainstream care consensus (Seriously Fish species profiles and FishBase maximum lengths). Where sources differ we use the more cautious figure. Stocking numbers come from our stocking calculator.