Forktail Rainbow - 2cm

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Pseudomugil furcatus
• Common Name: Forktail Rainbow, Forktail Blue-Eye
• Adult Size: 2 to 2.5 inches (5 to 6.5 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 3 to 5 years
• Habitat: Endemic to fast-flowing rainforest streams in eastern Papua New Guinea; found in clear, shallow waters with dense aquatic plants and a sandy or gravel substrate

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 15 gallons (57 liters), ideally larger for stable water parameters and social behavior
• Ideal Temperature: 73–80°F (23–27°C)
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (4–12 dGH)
• Temperament: Peaceful and active; best kept in schools of 6 or more; males will spar for attention, but without real aggression

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes — eats small live and frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and microworms; also accepts high-quality micro pellets and flakes. A varied diet helps maintain vibrant coloration.

Appearance

• Slender body with a translucent yellow hue and glowing blue eyes
• Fins are bright yellow and slightly forked — especially the caudal (tail) fin, giving it its "forktail" name
• Males are more vividly colored with longer, more flowing fins
• Females are slightly smaller and plainer in comparison

Distinctive Features

• Striking yellow fins and electric-blue eyes make it a visually stunning nano species
• Fast, darting swimmers that prefer open space but feel more secure in a planted setup
• Excellent choice for peaceful, well-maintained community aquariums
• Males perform energetic fin displays during courtship and dominance displays