Melanotaenia splendida splendida

(Eastern Rainbowfish)

Description

A small, laterally compressed species with males larger and having more elongate posterior margins of the second dorsal and anal fin than females. Colour patterns can vary among populations. Body surface is generally silvery with a variable, dark mid-lateral stripe. Several narrow yellowish-orange to reddish stripes or spots on either side may be present. Two dorsal fins and a long based anal fin present. These may be red to orange or yellow with black margins and flecks. This fish prefers rocky pools with minimal water flow and shallow sunny areas. The species feeds mainly on algae and also some insects (aquatic and terrestrial), small crustaceans and molluscs.