Celebes Rainbow (Marosatherina ladigesi) – Elegant, Peaceful Schooling Fish With Brilliant Yellow & Blue Accents
The Celebes Rainbow is a graceful, lightly built schooling fish known for its shimmering blue body, bright yellow fin edges, and elegant long fin extensions. Originating from the island of Sulawesi, this species prefers clean, well-oxygenated water and does exceptionally well in planted aquariums.
Their active yet peaceful nature makes them excellent for community setups, and their unique, almost feather-like fins add movement and beauty to any tank. Celebes Rainbows thrive in groups and show their best behavior and coloration when kept with other calm, small fish.
Moderate
Peaceful, schooling
Up to 3 inches
3–5 years with proper care
Omnivorous — enjoys micro pellets, crushed flakes, baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and other small live or frozen foods. A varied diet helps maintain strong coloration and fin health.
Minimum 20 gallons (groups of 6+ recommended)
Temperature: 72–80°F
pH: 7.0–8.0
Hardness: Moderately hard to hard
Lighting: Moderate
Flow: Gentle to moderate
Peaceful and ideal for community tanks
Best kept in groups to reduce stress and encourage natural schooling behavior
Compatible with rasboras, small rainbowfish, peaceful tetras, ricefish, and Corydoras
Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species that may damage their delicate fins
Sensitive to poor water quality — prefers clean, stable conditions
Benefits from floating plants and gentle flow
Males display longer fin extensions and brighter coloration
Best coloration appears in well-planted tanks with good lighting
